Driscoll Life - Summer 2010

SUMMER 2010 | Vo l . 22 | No .2

Dhariel Carrillo

Orthopaedic Team Set on

Casting Kids First Children’s Miracle

Network Raises $2,411,535! Planned Giving:

What Kind of Legacy Will You Leave?

O N E I N A M I L L I O N

13606_DriscollLife_Summer2010-v12.indd 1 8/16/10 10:48:31 AM

A Message from The Driscoll President and CEO

In 1994 the Governor of Texas established the Quality Texas Foundation, a foundation with the mission to recognize and encourage excellence throughout the state in various industries including manufacturing, service and governmental entities. Recognition and awards for excellence are given out annually by the Foundation to worthy applicants.

As you might guess with such an important award, applications are not taken lightly. The application process is extensive and thorough and must stand up to significant scrutiny. With that in mind, there are

four levels of honorees each year with four being the top level. In 2009 Driscoll was awarded the second level — the Commitment Level. We were certainly most pleased and honored.

In 2010, we pressed on and applied for the third level — the Progress Level. At this level the amount of scrutiny, which is based on the Malcolm Baldridge criteria, increases dramatically. Part of the criteria on this level states the following: “At this level an organization develops a sound, balanced approach to organization management performance and improvement.” And the good news is…Driscoll recently was recognized at the Progress Level.

Not only were we awarded the Progress Level, we were humbled to be in such honorable company. Among the honorees at the ceremony held in Dallas recently were Raytheon, Baylor Regional Medical Center in Plano and MD Anderson Cancer Center. What an honor for Driscoll Children’s Hospital, for Corpus Christi and for all of South Texas to be recognized with this award for excellence.

Reflecting on the significance of the Quality Texas Foundation Award, it brings to mind the thought of what actually makes Driscoll what it is; it is a children’s hospital that is certainly unique among organizations across the state and I believe across the nation.

But what makes it so? My conclusion: It’s about ownership. In other words “I” meaning every individual who works here is Driscoll…“I am Driscoll.” And in my mind, that’s what sets us apart. You can see it in the way employees greet you in the hallways or the way they take that extra step for a patient, a mom or a dad. Those are the attributes that create the best quality hospital. It is a spirit that the people who work here own the hospital, are responsible for it and for what happens here every day in the hallways and within each department.

So to each of you individually, you are Driscoll and collectively that means we — all of us — are Driscoll. Thank you, all of you, for that commitment and dedication and for your belief in Driscoll Children’s Hospital and everything it stands for in South Texas and far beyond.

Steve Woerner | President and CEODriscoll Children’s Hospital

Governing Board

C. Ivan Wilson Chair

Steve Woerner Vice Chair

Bruna Callegari-Puente, M.D. Chief of Staf f

William Allen, M.D.

Karl Serrao, M.D.

Murray Bass, Jr.

Jim Devlin

Martha Hinojosa

Pat Horne

Lenora Keas

Reba McNair

S. Loyd Neal, Jr.

Bill Sterett

Development Foundation Board of Directors 2010-2011

OFFICERS

Manette Scanio President

Bob Cuvelier Vice President

Julie Buckley Vice President

Mary Clark Treasurer

Wes Hoskins Secretary

Pat Horne Past President

DIRECTORS

Derwood Anderson

Elsa Cardenas-Hagan, Ph.D.

Gerald Eckel

Sister Guerra

Willard Hammonds, II

Nancy Hawn

Lenora Keas

Debbie Layton

Bill Moffitt

Liz Nisbet

Laura Smith Noe

Sherry Rumley

Roger Timperlake, M.D.

Rich Tuttle

Chad Wilfong

Bernard Paulson Trustee Emeritus

Martha St. Romain Executive Director

Driscoll Children’s Hospital

3533 South Alameda Street

Corpus Christi, Texas 78411

(361) 694-5000

DriscollChildrens.org

DRISCOLL L IFE | SUMMER 2010 1 Dr isco l lCh i ld rens .o rg


A Message from The Driscoll Development Foundation Board President

Our Mission: Remembering always our commitment to relieve suffering and meet the needs of children; it is the mission of Driscoll Children’s Hospital to offer hope and healing in an environment of trust, compassion and care.

While Richard and I have been blessed to yet ever need the services of Driscoll Children’s Hospital for our children or grandchildren, I am acutely aware of how important its services and mission are to our community, “to offer hope and healing in an

environment of trust, compassion and care.”

Every time I drive by the hospital on South Alameda and see the number of cars in the parking lots, I reflect on the precious child and that child’s family that each car represents. A child and family traveling to the hospital seeking help for such an array of illnesses and injuries.

It reminds me how personal and special the hospital’s mission statement becomes to that individual child and family. In their most vulnerable time, in their hour of need, they come seeking healthcare in an environment of trust, compassion and care. What a responsibility for the hospital to relieve suffering and meet the needs of children 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

And how we, volunteers and donors, play such a role in helping fulfill this mission. It is inspiring to witness the thousands of people it takes, not only the medical and professional staff, but the multitude of volunteers and donors who reach deep and continue to join forces behind this mission.

As President of the Development Foundation, I am honored to serve the mission for the children of South Texas.

Manette Scanio | PresidentDriscoll Development Foundation Board

Dr isco l lCh i ld rens .o rg SUMMER 2010 | DRISCOLL L IFE 2

SUMMER 2010 | Vo l . 22 | N o. 2

Dhariel CarrilloONE IN A MILLION

3PAGE

Orthopaedic Team Set on Casting Kids FirstPage 7

Children’s Miracle Network

Raises $2,411,535!Page 11

For Kids’ SakeFiesta de los Niños — McAllen Raises Over $185,000 Net!Page 13

Planned Giving: What Kind of Legacy Will You Leave?Page 18


MIR

ACLE

CHILD

Dhariel CarrilloO N E I N A M I L L I O N By Debra Young Hatch

The day Dhariel Carrillo was born his mother, Jessica Carrillo, was told with

compassionate candor, “one in a million children survive what he has.”

Jessica, completely incredulous and apparently not one to believe in the odds

responded easily, “Well, how do you know that he is not that one in a million?”

Truth is, they didn’t know, no one did. But Jessica believed he was, and as it

turns out, she was absolutely correct. Dhariel Carrillo was that ONE IN A MILLION.




There is no doubt this soon to be 11-year-old boy has beaten the monumental odds stacked against him from the beginning and his Mom quips smiling, “The doctors have quit predicting what Dhariel will do or what will happen because every time they say, ‘this will happen or he will do this,’ he does the exact opposite. I knew,” she says, “he was special from the time he was born and he just keeps on proving that.

“When I was five months pregnant,” Jessica recalls, “they did a sonogram and told me my baby was going to have shortened extremities.”

But when he was born not only did Dhariel have shortened extremities and six digits on each hand, indicative of a lifelong condition known as Ellis van Creveld — a type of dwarfism — additionally he had a heart condition, also indicative of this genetic anomaly. Dhariel was born with three heart chambers instead of four.

Born on October 18, 1999 in Weslaco, Dhariel, with a prognosis that looked grave at best, was flown immediately to Driscoll Children’s Hospital and he had his first procedure — open heart surgery — at 14 days old performed by Dr. Mark Morales, pediatric cardio-thoracic surgeon at Driscoll.

“Dr. Morales,” explains Jessica, “did the open heart surgery on Dhariel at Driscoll. He put in a pulmonary artery band to control the flow of oxygen to his lungs.”

Following the surgery, the doctors told Jessica they did not think Dhariel was going to make it. He was simply not getting

enough oxygen. However, there was still one option, but there were no guarantees. They could perform a tracheotomy and see if that might help, or they could take him off the ventilator and Jessica could sign a DNR (Do not resuscitate).

“I decided at that moment,” Jessica says thoughtfully, “it was time to let Dhariel go and leave him in God’s hands. I agreed to the DNR, but I couldn’t sign the papers. I couldn’t make myself do it. They told me my verbal agreement was fine. Then they removed the ventilator and I went to the other room. I couldn’t stay in the room. I was so afraid. But, the next morning Dhariel was still with us. I couldn’t believe it. But then again, I could because I couldn’t understand why God would give this baby to me and then take him away.

“Then Doctor Morales came in and told me Dhariel was going to make it after all. He said honestly, ‘I would not have done the surgery if I didn’t think he would survive. Now, what you have to do,’ he said, ‘is love and feed your baby. That’s all you have to do because he’s going to be fine.’ And,” she smiles, “he was.”

At a year and a half, Dhariel had another open heart surgery. “It was a complete reconstructive surgery,” explains Jessica. “And after that,” she smiles knowingly, “he never went on oxygen again.”

With his heart now working as it should to support his body, it was time for Dhariel and his family to face the long-term orthopaedic needs of a child with Ellis van Creveld Syndrome.

“This is a very rare condition,” explains Dr. Roger Timperlake, pediatric orthopaedic surgeon at Driscoll. “In sixteen years of practice here I have probably only seen one or two children with this syndrome. The main orthopaedic concerns for a child in this situation are the stress on his joints and the potential development for arthritis in those joints. Children with Ellis van Creveld Syndrome have legs that grow crooked, their joints are mal-aligned and ultimately their joints simply wear out and they develop arthritis.”

As a child with this syndrome grows and develops, often several extensive surgeries are required to alter mal-alignment and pressure on the joints. Dhariel had his first orthopaedic surgery in 2003 when he was four years old.

“Dr. Timperlake removed the extra digit on each of Dhariel’s hands,” explains Jessica, “and performed an osteotomy (controlled surgical break to shorten, lengthen or alter alignment) on each of his legs. Because of his dwarfism, his femurs are curved inward and his tibias outward. Dr. Timperlake had to break or cut the bones and reset them to make the joints align. He did Dhariel’s hands at the same time and,” she smiles, “he told Dhariel he left him a Nike™ symbol on each hand.”

Dhariel and Roger Timperlake, M.D., pediatric orthopaedic surgeon at DCH.

Dhariel and Mark Morales, M.D., pediatric cardio-thoracic surgeon at DCH.

I wasn’t going to give up on him and neither did they.



At that moment, Dhariel who has been drawing intently and seemingly not paying attention to a word being said places both elbows on the table and proudly shows off his Nike™ scars on each hand. He eyes each one carefully, smiles, nods and then says, “Dr. Timperlake, he’s cool!” Having made his definitive statement, he smiles again, picks up his pencil and returns to the issue at hand — finishing his drawing.

“He was in a spica cast or body cast,” continues Jessica, “from his waist down and he had casts on both hands. He was four years old then and his baby brother was born at that time as well. At that point, Dhariel was in those casts for two months. The casts were removed in December and then we started therapy so Dhariel would have the strength to be able to walk.”

“Our goal in this surgery,” explains Dr. Timperlake, “is to preserve the joints. When the joints align properly pressure is relieved, future pain prevented and hopefully the development of painful arthritis in the joints is also avoided.”

Dhariel’s osteotomy was successful and he continued to grow over the next four years. Great news of course for him and for his whole family, but that also meant another major surgery in Dhariel’s future, because with growth so too comes change in alignment. So in August of 2007 Dhariel needed another osteotomy as his knee joints were being damaged since his legs were not growing parallel and joint alignment was becoming a significant problem once again.

“Dr. Timperlake did the surgery for Dhariel this time too,” recalls Jessica. “By the way,” she says before continuing with her story, “I have to tell you we love Dr. Timperlake. He is wonderful. He always

listens. He always takes his time and he makes sure all of our questions are answered. In my mind he is a doctor that is compassionate and passionate. You can tell he loves what he does, and he has made a huge difference in Dhariel’s life. I just had to say that,” she smiles.

“For this particular surgery,” Jessica who is now herself a nurse explains, “they had to make cuts in each leg from the hip to the knee and then the knee to the ankle. Then they put metal bars in Dhariel’s legs with six screws in each. This surgery was done in August of 2007 and in September the casts were removed. “Unfortunately,” she says, “one screw did not attach so Dhariel had to have another surgery. But that one was quick. We came to Driscoll on a Monday, he had the surgery on Wednesday and we went home on Friday.

“And in May of this year,” she grins obviously most pleased with her son’s progress, “all the screws and metal plates were removed from Dhariel’s legs. Everything,” she says, “is looking good.”

There is no doubt she is right as the future for this young boy whose aspirations run the gamut from being a trainer at

SeaWorld to an archeologist or maybe an ear doctor or scientist looks bright.

“Dhariel is a great kid,” explains Dr. Timperlake. “His prognosis is excellent. He has wonderful family support, he is well-loved and his mother’s will to have him do well serves as a key support for this young man. There could, however, be one more surgery in Dhariel’s future depending on how he grows and the need to preserve his joints. We’ll have to wait and see.”

“You know,” Jessica says as she scans lovingly at all the photos of her son from birth through elementary school she has spread out on the table chronicling his young life, “everyone has always told me about Driscoll, but we have experienced it now and I don’t know what we would have done without it. I don’t know if my baby would be here. But I wasn’t going to give up on him and neither did they.”

At that moment Dhariel looks up at his Mom, sensing perhaps it might be time to go then looks over at his cousin Mark and says, “Mom, can we go to Target™ and get that movie we talked about on the way home?”

Jessica nods, begins gathering up her photos then pauses a moment to add, “Dhariel,” she says, obviously taking stock of all that they have been through, “is unique, he is one-of-a-kind. He is,” she smiles soberly looking at her son and putting her hand gently on his shoulder, “definitely one in a million.”

Dhariel and Chaplain Alan Bagnall, Director of Pastoral Services at DCH.

He was special from the time he was born and he just

keeps on proving that.

Dhariel’s mother, Jessica, always knew that Dhariel

would beat the odds.



Building at Driscoll Children’s Hospital to be named for C. Ivan Wilson

An artist rendering shows plans for the C. Ivan Wilson Patient Support Center.

In conjunction with National Donate Life Month, Driscoll Children’s Hospital dedicated an Organ Donor Wall on the second floor of the hospital to help raise awareness of the importance of organ donation. Driscoll physicians and staff, representatives from the Southwest Transplant Alliance and many family members of organ donors who are memorialized on the wall were on hand for this memorable and emotional event.

The “Legacy of Life” wall commemorates patients at Driscoll Children’s Hospital who passed away and gave the gift of life by donating organs. Each patient is represented by a ‘seed of life’ floating into the wind from a dandelion, symbolizing the life and future ahead.

Karl Serrao, M.D., critical care intensivist, spearheaded the Organ Donor Wall effort and cut the dedication ribbon with the help of family members of organ donors. “Not enough recognition is given to the people who donate organs,” stated Dr.

Serrao. “Without donors there are no recipients. This wall was created to recognize the gifts that these families have given so that others can live, and to inspire others to also give when they’re called upon.”

Nationally, there are more than 105,000 patients awaiting transplant; approximately 10,000 are from Texas.

On June 4th, it was announced that the former synagogue building located on Ft. Worth Street and owned by Driscoll Children’s Hospital will be renovated, re-landscaped and dedicated in honor of C. Ivan Wilson, Chairman of the Driscoll Children’s Hospital Governing Board. Wilson, who first became a trustee of the Robert Driscoll and Julia Driscoll and Robert Driscoll Jr. Foundation in 1982, has been a long-time champion for making high quality healthcare available to the children of South Texas, and his dedication to Driscoll continues to inspire all who interact with him. The announcement was made in the Driscoll auditorium during an opening event for the annual Children’s Miracle Network Celebration.

“A Legacy of Life” Organ Donor Wall Dedicated at Driscoll Children’s Hospital Honors Donors and Families

Karl Serrao, M.D., (center) dedicates the wall with the help of family members of organ donors at Driscoll Children’s Hospital.


Dr isco l lCh i ld rens .o rgDRISCOLL L IFE | SUMMER 2010 7

When Roger Timperlake moved to Corpus Christi and opened the doors to his pediatric orthopaedic practice

in September of 1993, one of his thoughts as a new doctor in town was, “What if no one comes?” Little did he know at the time that was not, nor ever would be, a problem. Because from day one, there have been patients in need to fill every hour of every day and then some.“When I got out of the Navy,” Dr. Timperlake explains, “I knew I wanted

to be at a children’s hospital. I looked around Texas at several places. Then I heard about Driscoll Children’s Hospital, and came to Corpus Christi. There seemed to be a significant need here, and no one to serve that need. Plus it looked like a great place to live and work.

“In 1993,” recalls Dr. Timperlake, “there was not one pediatric orthopaedist

here. There were plenty of great adult orthopaedists, but no one who worked solely with children. The day we opened the practice here, I considered the possibility,” he admits easily, “that perhaps no one would come, maybe I just wouldn’t have any patients. But what I didn’t know,” he smiles, “is that all of the adult orthopaedists in town had been saving up their pediatric patients for me. So beginning that very first day we had a full schedule. Actually, we were inundated. In fact, for the first sixteen months I was here, I never had a day off. There just wasn’t time.

“I had one nurse, Bernie Ramon, and one cast tech, Jay Reyna,” and he says, “They have been with me since day one and they are still with us. Back then our office was next to the ER in Driscoll and we were going non-stop trying to meet the needs of the children in Corpus Christi. The need was just tremendous, and I couldn’t have done what I did without Bernie and Jay.”

For Dr. Timperlake, it became evident in short order that he alone could not fill the need. He was going to need help — and he was going to need it soon. That’s when Dr. Chris Comstock entered the picture.

“I had completed my residency in pediatric orthopaedics at Stanford,” recalls Chris Comstock, “and I had gone to San Diego Children’s Hospital to do my Fellowship. My plan was to complete my Fellowship there and then go back to Stanford and work on staff. But I guess that wasn’t meant to be,” he smiles.

“One of the surgeons at San Diego Children’s mentioned that a colleague of his in Corpus Christi, Roger Timperlake, had opened his practice three years prior and he was overwhelmed with the case load. Roger, he told me, had sent out an S.O.S. looking for another pediatric orthopaedist as he was just trying to keep his head above water. At the time, I was supposed to return to Stanford, but I decided I would just come out and meet with Roger and see what the position was all about.

Orthopaedic Team Set on Casting Kids First

By Debra Young Hatch

Christopher Comstock, M.D., is all smiles with 2-year-old Roman Niño.

The Orthopaedic Staff at Driscoll Children’s Hospital: (back row left to right) Jorge Gonzalez, Sylvia Mendiola, Rosemary Olivo, Ernestina Castillo, Lisa Niño, Amanda Patlan, Julio Reyna. Front row left to right: Roger Timperlake, M.D., Rosie Zapata, Bernadine Ramon, Monica Briseno, Marianne Garcia, Adelicia Rea, Maria Garza, Anette Torres, Melissa Esparza and Angela Escalante, Nurse Practitioner (FNP). Not pictured: Christopher Comstock, M.D.


SUMMER 2010 | DRISCOLL L IFE 8Dr isco l lCh i ld rens .o rg

“When I came to meet with Roger, he was so busy, seeing patients from early in the morning until late at night; his time was very limited and it was obvious he was exhausting himself. We had a hard time meeting. But we did find time to talk in between patients. I liked Roger, liked what I saw at Driscoll, and it was obvious additional services were needed and would be appreciated. So I decided then and there that I wanted to come to Corpus Christi.

“I arrived here in ’96,” recalls Dr. Comstock, “and hit the ground running. I started with twenty patients a day and then that grew to 30. Today we see 90–100 in the clinic daily. But Roger and I are never in the clinic at the same time, we alternate. One of us serves patients in the clinic on a given day and the other is in the operating room.”

In addition to serving Corpus Christi patients, several years ago Dr. Timperlake started a Brownsville clinic where he served patients on Saturdays in the Valley. Today Dr. Comstock goes to the Valley twice a month alternating between two Driscoll clinics in Brownsville and McAllen. On those days, he sees between 75 and 100 patients.

One of the elements that makes these two orthopaedists’ partnership and practice unique is the breadth of the pathology they see and treat. In contrast to many pediatric orthopaedic practices — particularly in larger cities — which specialize in certain areas such as hands or upper extremities only, their services in South Texas run the gamut of care.

“One day,” explains Dr. Comstock, “I will be doing an anterior spine procedure, the next day a small finger and the next day a sports case. Every day is different. I like it all. And I love the kids; they make it.

“I always knew,” says Dr. Comstock, “when I was trained I would do a pediatric version of the specialty I chose. Kids are so great to work with because for them there is no secondary gain. They just want to be outside playing. They wear their emotions and feelings on their face. And they give you an honest perspective on life in general.”

In addition to their common passion for the kids — a passion which definitely drives them to do what they do — both doctors concur unquestionably that without their staff, it would be impossible to serve the children at such a high level in Corpus Christi and throughout South Texas.

“We have an incredible team,” says Dr. Timperlake candidly. “Without them we could not do what we do. We have such a fantastic staff who is as dedicated and skilled as we are. We couldn’t care for the kids the way we do and handle the numbers of children without our staff. Many of our staff members have been here for at least ten years and several from the first day we opened our doors.”

“Monica Briseno who is an RN,” explains Dr. Comstock, “has worked with me since my first day at Driscoll and Angela Escalante an RN who is now our nurse practitioner has been with us almost as long. With such a busy practice we have to have skilled, efficient staff. We have been blessed with outstanding nurses and staff members who have great attitudes.”

“We have five RNs, one LVN, two cast techs, one staff director, one nurse practitioner, five medical office specialists and two secretaries,” explains Angela Escalante. “We answer about 500 calls a day, and perform 80–100 surgeries per month per doctor. We are busy from start to finish every day.

“But Dr. Timperlake and Dr. Comstock,” Escalante emphasizes, “take their time with every patient. They want them to feel and know when they are talking to them that it’s all about them. They are never in a hurry and they are very social with the children, so they develop a good relationship with the kids. It is unique,” she shares candidly, “having two physicians who really enjoy coming to work every day. They set the standard for all of us.”

As for the future, Drs. Timperlake and Comstock are certain that a third partner is in the offing when the right one comes along. Currently, Dr. Brett Richards, who has been working with the practice for a year and a half, serves patients twice a month focusing on upper extremities and hand anomalies.

“We definitely have enough need for a third physician. But it has to be the right one. We have to have the right fit,” explains Timperlake. “There are only 18–20 Fellowed pediatric orthopaedists nationwide annually, and most of them choose to go to the larger cities where they can specialize in areas like the spine or hands. We handle everything so we need someone who wants a broad practice and has a personality that fits in well with us, our staff and,” he smiles, “of course, the kids. We love the kids. They keep us going.”

Julio Reyna, cast technician for the program, stays very busy with the high volume of children requiring casts. He is pictured above with patient, Nicolas Castillo.

Pre-operative and post-operative x-rays of a scoliosis case reveal the capability of modern medicine to repair this common anomaly.

Driscoll Children’s HospitalOrthopaedic Services

Driscoll Children’s Hospital — Corpus Christi3533 South Alameda StreetPhone: 361-694-5057

Driscoll Children’s Medical Plaza — McAllen1120 E. Ridge RoadPhone: 956-688-1205

Driscoll Children’s Specialty Center — Brownsville5500 North ExpresswayPhone: 956-688-8605



Healthy Families Program: What You Need to Know, When You Need to Know It.

In a world where making healthy choices does not come easily, there is now a new option in South Texas that is designed to coordinate with on-the-go lifestyles. Healthy Families is a program that comes with a virtual team and provides individuals, including those at risk for diabetes, with individualized health information aimed at improving health knowledge and awareness. Joining the program is easy — anyone can enroll via text message, email or postcard.

The Healthy Families Program brings health information directly to the individual, on the go and in the home. It’s ideal for any health-conscious families in rural communities, but anyone can and should join for convenience and encouragement to make their health a priority.

The program’s goal is to improve self-care for families by increasing their knowledge of better lifestyle choices. The Healthy Families registry team provides families with personalized educational advice through the use of text messages, e-mail and traditional newsletters.

The Healthy Families Program is administered by Driscoll Children’s Health Plan and was made possible through an Office for the Advancement of Telehealth grant from Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Telehealth Network Grant Program (TNGP).

To register or learn more about the program, text HEALTHY to 25827 or go to www.hfstx.org.

2010 Holiday CardsOn September 1st, the 2010 Driscoll Children’s Hospital Holiday Cards will be available for sale in the Carousel Gift Shop. For information, call 361.694.5011. The cards will also be available for purchase at www.driscollchildrens.org.

Third Annual Transplant Reunion Makes a Splash!The third annual Kidney Transplant Reunion was held on April 17th at the Texas State Aquarium, and fun was had by all! The event is held each year to give the patients, donors, physicians and staff from the Kidney Center a chance to get together, have fun and celebrate. The first pediatric kidney transplant in South Texas was performed at Driscoll Children’s Hospital in February 2007, and over 37 successful transplants have followed since.

Mindy Solis from Driscoll and patient, Millie Salinas, enjoy the day at the Aquarium. Millie received a kidney transplant in 2008.

A New Location for Driscoll Children’s After-Hours Clinic in VictoriaThe Driscoll Children’s After Hours Clinic in Victoria recently moved from a second floor suite to a newly renovated suite on the first floor. The project includes four additional exam rooms and a larger receptionist area and waiting room. With the additional space, the clinic will be able to accommodate more patients in a more family-centered environment. “The new floor plan is definitely more inviting and welcoming to the public,” said Laura Zamora, physician practice administrator. Clinic staff are excited to share the new space with the patients in Victoria.



Driscoll Children’s Quick Care — McAllen: Going Strong Its First YearA year after its grand opening, Driscoll Children’s Quick Care — McAllen continues to grow as more families become aware of its presence.

“More than half of our patients are new every day,” stated Riaz Shareef, M.D., medical director of Driscoll Children’s Quick Care — McAllen. “Most of the children are sick after normal business hours or their parents did not have an opportunity during regular office hours to take them to a pediatrician.”

Dr. Shareef said the clinic is seeing 800 to 900 patients per month. The clinic is designed to complement a child’s primary care physician by providing services after regular business hours and on weekends. The Driscoll medical staff stays in close contact with the child’s physician and fax a summary of the visit to the physician’s office.

Dr. Shareef and the staff at Driscoll Children’s Quick Care — McAllen are excited about the full-scale laboratory that will soon be added to complement the clinic’s radiology services, which include X-rays, ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scans.

The Driscoll Children’s Quick Care — McAllen facility is located at 1120 E Ridge Road in McAllen.

DCH Volunteens: Out to Make a DifferenceEvery summer, a young group of future leaders give of their precious free time to volunteer at Driscoll Children’s Hospital. This summer approximately 100 teens between 14 and 18 years of age helped lend a hand all over the hospital. Many teens return year after year — already set on making a difference in their community. To learn more about the Volunteen Program, contact Volunteer Services at (361) 694-4762.

Taeed Joins Driscoll as Medical Director of Cardiology

Physician Spotlight

Roozbeh Taeed, M.D., joined Driscoll Children’s Hospital in January 2010 as medical director of cardiology. Dr. Taeed comes to Driscoll after serving as associate medical director of the Pediatric Surgical Intensive Care Unit at CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital in San Antonio. He was a clinical associate professor at the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and served as cardiac intensivist in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital. Dr. Taeed

earned his Doctor of Medicine degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston and his Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Texas A&M University, College Station and completed his residency, and was chief resident of the Department of Pediatrics at UTMB. He completed his cardiology training at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, and brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the Cardiology program at Driscoll Children’s Hospital.

(Left to right) Volunteens Hayley Johnston, sophomore, King High School; Rosario Rodriguez, junior, Carroll High School; and Josh Reyes, freshman, Ray High School, make rounds with the Jolly Trolley — selling tasty treats to raise money for the DCH Auxiliary.


DRISCOLL L IFE | SUMMER 2010 11

Children’s Miracle Network

Driscoll Children’s Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network began their partnership in 1984 and since then have raised over $26 million for the children of South Texas. This year’s annual celebration was a tremendous success in Corpus Christi and the Rio Grande Valley — raising $2,411,535! The celebration represents gifts donated by individuals, community organizations, corporations and foundations who support our mission by selling Miracle Balloons, hosting workplace giving campaigns and sponsoring a variety of events and cause marketing promotions throughout the year.

With the exceptional help of Community Chairs Kathleen and Pat Horne, the annual event once again proved to be a wonderful success, giving Driscoll a chance to thank all of its generous community supporters. Thank you to all of our DCH staff members and Auxiliary members who volunteered their time and thank you to media partners Kiii-TV South Texas and KGBT-TV Harlingen for their support year after year. One hundred percent of the money donated to Children’s Miracle Network in our area stays in our area, directly benefiting the young patients at Driscoll Children’s Hospital.

Dr isco l lCh i ld rens .o rg

A Year in Celebration

Children’s Miracle Network and Driscoll Children’s Hospital

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Auxilians Vivian Daniel (red crab on head) and

Gerry Reeves

Patient, Patrick Arredondo smiles with his good friend Marie

Soza, Corpus Christi ISD schoolteacher at Driscoll

Children’s Hospital.

Community Chairs Kathleen and Pat Horne (far left) pictured

with Lola and Ivan Wilson, Chairman, DCH Governing

Board (far right) and Richard Harris, DCH Development

Foundation (center).



Valero Convenience Stores presented $74,600 that was raised for Driscoll

Children’s Hospital.

Luke Loftus, 2010 Miracle Child, with pediatric

nephrologist Samhar Al-Akash, M.D..

Angel Anaya, 2010 Miracle Child,

entertained hosts on-air with a Spanish song.

2010 Miracle Child Logan Flores

McAllen Auxiliary members (left to right) Carmen Jackson, Ellen and George Carruthers, Aida Escobar, Gricelda

Cantu and Shirley Robinson

Walmart District Manager Assistant 409, Filbert

Villanueva (left), is pictured with fellow Walmart

associates as they present their check.

Left to right: Paige Cooper, RN, Driscoll

Children’s Hospital Cardiology Services; Lynn Kaylor; Garbine Goya, M.D., Driscoll Children’s Hospital pediatric cardiologist;

Travis Kaylor and Hayden Kaylor, 2010 Miracle Child.

Stripes representatives Genia Flores (left), McAllen, and Yolanda Flores (right), Brownsville, with Cindy Salinas, Director of the

Stripes Child Life Program at Driscoll Children’s Hospital.


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Fiesta de los Niños Rio Grande Valley

Fiesta de los Niños — McAllen Raises Over $185,000 Net!On Friday, April 16, 2010, Whataburger presented the 7th Annual Fiesta de los Niños benefiting operations for the Driscoll Children’s Medical Plaza — McAllen. The rainy weather cleared just in time for the party and made way for a beautiful evening at Sister and Carlos Guerra’s La Muñeca Ranch in Linn, Texas.

Everyone had a wonderful time enjoying barbecue and dancing to the Valley’s own Scott Randolph and the White Lightning Band — a local favorite. Guests kicked up their heels and danced the night away and the live, silent and bidboard auctions had people bidding high to win their favorite items.

One hundred percent of the funds raised at this event directly benefit Driscoll patients in the Rio Grande Valley who receive medical care at the Driscoll Children’s Medical Plaza — McAllen. A tremendous thank you to everyone who contributed their time and talent to make this event a success for the mission of Driscoll Children’s Hospital!

1. Sister and Carlos Guerra receive a token of appreciation for their significant support of Fiesta de los Niños.

2. Live auction high-bidder of the evening, Alice East, helps to ‘dog-sit’ the adorable lab puppy that would later be sold to a good home during the live auction.

3. Fiesta committee member Krystal Krenek helps Gerry Guerra sign for his Live Auction win. At the table with Gerry is Marco Flores.

4. Howdy, friends! Jaden Flores throws his hat up to celebrate a great party.

5. Whataburger representatives Priscilla and Ike Flores enjoy the evening.

6. 2010 Fiesta de los Niños Chair Laura Ramirez smiles with her precious daughters, Gabriela and Mia Carmen. Also joining in for the picture is friend, Cullen Runnels.

7. Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., pediatric surgeon (left), and wife, Cristina, won an autographed pair of basketball shoes from Houston Rockets player Aaron Brooks (center) during the live auction.

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Early Childhood Cancer Awareness:Drawing Attention to an Important Cause 2010 Chemo-Kids Fish

Off Makes a Splash On July 12, 2010, Driscoll oncology patients and staff boarded a bus to Aransas Pass, where they spent the day fishing, painting their ‘catch of the day’ and just having a blast. The annual event was once again supported by our big-hearted friends of the Coastal Bend Chapter of Credit Unions. The Fish Off gives our oncology and hematology patients something to really be excited about year after year, and is a worry-free day for all. Local fishing guides volunteer their services and a few lucky Driscoll employees also get the opportunity to volunteer and spend a day away from the hospital with these patients.

Did you know that September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month? Take a moment to become aware of the following statistics about childhood cancer:

•Approximately 12,400 children and teens under age 20 are diagnosed with cancer in the United States each year.

•Cancer is slightly more common in boys than girls, affecting one in 333 girls and one in 300 boys before age 20.

•Caucasian children and teens are more frequently diagnosed with cancer than children in any other ethnic group.

This year, Driscoll will celebrate with activities and events that will help raise community awareness. On September 14th, Driscoll Children’s Hospital will host the first-ever Early Childhood Cancer Awareness event in our auditorium. The public is encouraged to attend and enjoy the food, fun and even get haircuts to collect donations at the event. To find out how you can get involved, contact Mara Ellis at (361) 694-4315.

Driscoll oncology patient Joe Richard Martinez looks out over the city as he receives treatment.

Logan Radford smiles with his good friend Darryl Longee, M.D., pediatric oncologist at Driscoll Children’s Hospital. The young anglers get to make a fish print of their catch of the day — featured in the background.

Chemo-Kids Fish Off

The 23rd Annual South Texas Cattlemen’s RoundUp kicked off June 22nd in Hallettsville, with the help of FFA and 4-H Chapters,

barn owners, county commissioners and generous ranchers and donors throughout the South Texas territory! A very special thank you goes to DCH Development Foundation Board member Gerald Eckel, of Lyssy and Eckel Feeds, for his dedication and support of this event year after year. To support the RoundUp, visit www.driscollchildrens.org/roundup or call (361) 694-6402. Watch for more coverage of the South Texas Cattleman’s RoundUp in the next issue of Driscoll Life.

South Texas Cattleman’s RoundUp

Braxton Butler proudly shows off a goat that he just caught in the auction pen in Beeville.

Kory and Kary Humphrey and Weston Rhodes hang

out at the Three Rivers RoundUp.



Community Giving

Boeing Presents $10,000!On April 21st, 2010, our friends at Boeing donated $10,000 to Driscoll Children’s Hospital, showing their commitment to investing in communities where they have many employees. The gift was given for the most critical needs of the hospital, and will aid in helping our team at Driscoll make a huge difference in the lives of our patients. Thank you, Boeing!

Coastal A’s and RodsLocal car club, Coastal A’s and Rods, hosted its 18th Annual Fun Run over Memorial Day weekend. It was a perfect opportunity for car lovers in the area to come out for a good time and to support a great cause. For the last four years, this generous group has donated proceeds from the event to Driscoll Children’s Hospital. The 18th Annual Fun Run raised $11,103 for the children at Driscoll! Thank you to this dedicated group!

(Left to Right) Timothy Sassenrath, Director, Apache Worldwide Support, Boeing; Charles Spriggs, Logistical Representative, Community Involvement Focal, Boeing; Rickford Gregg, Quality Representative, Community Involvement Lead, Boeing; Peri Widener, Senior Director, Army Worldwide Support, Boeing; and Martha St. Romain, Vice President, Driscoll Development Foundation.

Elizabeth Whitmire cuts the grand opening ribbon with the help of Joe Gazin, Kiii-TV; Nueces County Judge Loyd Neal, DCH Governing Board member and Driscoll Foundation trustee; and his wife, Thetis Neal.

During the CMN Celebration,

members of the Coastal A’s and

Rods present a check for the

money raised at the Fun Run.

Walmart #395 Hosts 12th Annual CMN Golf Tournament As a part of CMN national sponsorship, Walmart store #395 in Mission, Texas, hosted its annual golf tournament to benefit Children’s Miracle Network and Driscoll Children’s Hospital at the Shary Golf Course in Mission, Texas, on May 29th. They raised $3,100 for the patients at Driscoll, and are excited about continuing this tradition in the future. Thank you, Walmart #395!

Freebirds Makes an EntranceFreebirds and its charitable arm, Freebirds World Works, have a mission to help inspire staff and guests to give back to the community. Freebirds of Corpus Christi opened to the public on May 27th, and in their extraordinarily “Not Normal” style, held two charity fundraising events to benefit Driscoll Children’s Hospital in coordination with their grand opening activities. To top it all off, Freebirds hosted a VIP party for Driscoll Volunteers to officially cut the ribbon and dedicate the restaurant in Moore Plaza. Thank you, Freebirds! Welcome to Corpus Christi!



DonorSpotlight

VALERO AND DRISCOLL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL’S

DRIVE TOWARD EXCELLENCEMeeting the needs of children is a major community focus for Valero — one that makes an ideal partnership with Driscoll Children’s Hospital. As they give back to numerous charitable causes in our community, it is quite easy to see just how dedicated they are to making a lasting difference in children’s lives.

TOP: Lillian Riojas, Senior Manager of Public Affairs, Valero, admires the beautifully painted walls in the CARE Team Exam Room, made possible by Valero.

MIDDLE: Valero Cornerstore employees show their support for Children’s Miracle Network during a Miracle Balloon Campaign.

BOTTOM: As part of the renovation and expansion of the Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, patients like Adam Perez (pictured) will soon have a ‘cool’ new play area to spend their time while they are receiving treatments — another significant area where Valero has offered tremendous support.

LEFT: These children enjoy the action at the 2010 Valero Open.

For decades, Valero has been a dedicated supporter of Driscoll; however, over the last 3 years, has truly stepped up to the plate and made some very significant contributions — donating proceeds from the annual Valero Texas Open Benefit for Children Golf Classic to several priority projects at the hospital.

A walk through the halls at Driscoll reveals several areas that all have Valero’s thumbprint. Take a look at the beautiful murals on the walls of our Child Resource and Evaluation (CARE) Team’s new examination room. A place that used to be dark and lacking in character is now a true refuge for abused and neglected children who are brought to Driscoll. The colorful walls and comforting surroundings provide a sense of safety and even entertainment for these children.

Around the corner from the CARE Team Unit, one will find that construction is underway on the renovation and expansion of Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center — a victory for pediatric patients in our South Texas community. The hospital has long-needed a new clinical area that equals the high caliber of the care that is offered. Over 40% larger than the current space, the updated Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center will offer patients and families a home away from home during lengthy treatments at Driscoll. Modern, comfortable space and specialized furniture will help to truly accomplish our mission of hope and healing for these families. Thanks to special supporters like Valero, this dream will soon be a reality.

“We know that investing in the well-being of children is an investment in our community and in our future,” states Chad Wilfong, Senior Human Resources Manager, Valero. “While we have supported Driscoll for many years, we are so pleased to have had the opportunity to give even more significantly to the hospital in the recent past.”

And support, they have. Nearly $600,000 has been donated by Valero over the past decade for the health and welfare of our patients. When one considers all of the wonderful things that Valero has helped to accomplish for Driscoll Children’s Hospital, it renders a moment to be thankful for such a committed corporate citizen in South Texas.

Says Wilfong, “To see what happens within the walls at Driscoll every day is quite a reality check. You can see your gifts in action. You can see the difference you have helped create. You can see where you want to continue doing all you can to support the mission and the excellence here.”

We know that investing in the well-being of children is an investment in our community and in our future.


GRATEFUL PATIENTSGRATEFUL PATIENTS


I would like to recognize Mindy Solis, a nurse on the 7th floor. Not only was Mindy extremely competent and compassionate, and she was very sensitive to a 16 year old boy who was in pain and quite embarrassed. The reason I am specifically recognizing Mindy Solis is for the compassion she showed me, the mom. She goes way above and beyond the expectations of her job and she does her job in the most professional, skilled and compassionate way. She looks beyond her patients and sees the need and reaches out to families. She knew I was tired and scared and very overwhelmed, and her kindness is something I will never forget. It was unnecessary, just plain ol’ nice, kind and above and beyond.

Thank you,Doctors, nurses and hospital staff on the 7th floor! I was very scared when I walked through the front door. Then you talked me through it and showed me there was nothing to fear. You all made me feel very comfortable and at home and for someone as scared as I was that really means a lot. I love you all for your kindness and helping me get well soon.

Tell us how Driscoll Children’s

Hospital has made a

difference in your life. Please

send your story to:

Driscoll Children’s Hospital

Development Foundation

3533 South Alameda Street

Corpus Christi, TX 78411

Or email:

[email protected]


GRATEFUL PATIENTSGRATEFUL PATIENTS


Planned GivingWhat Kind Of Legacy Will You Leave?We all want to leave a lasting and significant impression on those people who are most dear to us. Planning for the future and considering the legacy you will leave is one of the most effective ways to ensure a lasting impact on the world in which you live.

For many people considering their legacy, ensuring that their loved ones will be sufficiently cared for in the future is of paramount importance. Making a charitable bequest is one of the easiest ways to guarantee that your legacy endures.

WHAT IS A CHArITAbLE bEquEST?A charitable bequest is a written statement in your will or trust directing a gift be made to a qualified exempt charity as part of the disposition of your estate. A charitable bequest is one of the most flexible estate planning tools because it can be changed at any time. This ability to remain in complete control of your property during life makes a charitable bequest one of the most popular methods of giving.

WHAT TyPE OF bEquEST SHOuLD yOu CONSIDEr?Though making a charitable bequest is a flexible and easy way to ensure the impact of your legacy, there are some important things to consider before incorporating a charitable bequest into your estate plan. The property passing by bequest through your will is subject to probate. Also, the amount of your bequest and the type of your bequest will depend on the value of your estate and the specific assets in your estate.

There are several types of charitable bequests. Depending on your needs and objectives, one type may be better suited for your estate plan than another.

• Giftofaspecificdollaramount• Giftofapercentageofyourestate• Giftofaspecificasset• Gift of the residue of your estate (the assets that remain in your estate

after other bequests, tax and administrative costs have been satisfied)

THE LEgACy yOu LEAVEThe professionals who work in our Office of Planned Giving have been trained to help you determine the type of charitable bequest that suits your objectives. They will provide you with confidential information that will ensure you receive the maximum tax benefits as you shape your legacy for future generations. What kind of legacy will you leave?

For more information contact Ted Daniel, Planned giving Officer at (361) 694-5773 or [email protected].


Non-Profit OrgU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 712

Corpus Christi, TX

Development Foundation3533 South Alameda StreetCorpus Christi, Texas 78411-1785

DriscollChildrens.org

14th Annual Six Points Kiwanis Club Skeet ShootSeptember 4th, 2010Corpus Christi Pistol & Rifle Club

15th Annual Golf Classic and Singer Songwriter Showcase September 30th and October 1st, 2010Corpus Christi Country Club

28th Annual Six Points Kiwanis Club Apple SaleOctober 23rd, 2010Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rehabilitation and Medical Center parking lot

For more information, please call the Driscoll Children’s Hospital Development Foundation at 361.694.6401.

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Driscoll Life - Summer 2010

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