Grand Slam Stories: Rochester Red Wings Honor Golisano Patients
The Rochester Red Wings honored five Golisano Children's Hospital patients this baseball season, sharing their stories and celebrating their determination.
Each patient was invited to throw the first pitch at a Red Wings game during the 2024 season and their stories were highlighted on social media.
This year's all-stars, Wyatt Allen, Carter McConnon, Blaine Collins, Melina Switzer, Isreal Willis, and Giana Bisnett, are all determined young patients who were thrilled to be featured at Rochester Red Wings games this year.
The stories of these patients and their families really "hit" home. Get to know this year's all-star lineup and hear about their inspiring journeys!
Wyatt Allen
During an ultrasound it was discovered that Wyatt had Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), a condition where the diaphragm fails to close, causing organs to press on the heart and lungs. Despite the challenges, the Robson family trusted the GCH NICU team.
After Wyatt's birth, he required an ECMO heart/lung bypass machine and underwent surgery to correct his condition. A week later, Wyatt faced heart and respiratory failure, and providers suggested a novel ECMO treatment using only veins. This approach successfully stabilized Wyatt, allowing further surgeries and recovery. These days Wyatt is thriving, eating on his own, and showing remarkable progress.鈥�
Carter McConnon
At just eight months old, Carter had already persevered through open heart surgery and cardiac catheterization, of which he has now had two of each.
Blaine Collins
Blaine, now 14, is a former patient at URMC鈥檚 Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Inpatient unit where he spent around eight months, including his 14th birthday.
Today, as a Victor High School student, Blaine has been a vocal supporter of the care team who helped him and for more accessible health care for all ages in our community. In June, he spoke at the grand opening of URMC鈥檚 Brighter Days Pediatric Mental Health Urgent Care.
"I hope this new urgent care center will help kids like me, making it easier to get through tough times and to provide even better quality and easier access to help," Blaine said after sharing his story with the crowd.
Learn more about our Pediatric Mental Health Urgent Care.
Melina Switzer
Melina, a determined 12-year-old, has faced a decade-long battle with Chronic Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction. Despite the challenges, including chronic pain and multiple surgeries, she remains active, participating in activities like Ninja courses at the Warrior Factory in Rochester and marching band.
Advances in treatment and new technology at Golisano Children's Hospital have brought hope for her future, as she continues her journey toward recovery.
Even in the face of setbacks, Melina鈥檚 resilient spirit keeps her moving forward.
Israel Willis
Izzy is diagnosed with a form of ADHD called hyperkinesis which causes heightened activity.He can have difficulty in social situations, but loves people and has a joyous personality.
鈥淗e is very social, but his diagnosis can cause different social situations where he may be a little confused 鈥� so if it calls for a situation to be quiet, he may be more prompting 鈥� but he absolutely loves being around people,鈥� his mom, Anastacia, explained.
She thanks the GCH team for helping during trying times for the family.
Giana Bisnett
Her condition was the result of a large cyst that developed on the right side of her body. In turn, Giana is missing nine ribs and has a smaller-than-average right lung. Despite these challenges, Gianna loves to dance and enjoys attending classes at ROC Dance Studio.
Advanced Pediatric Care
Golisano Children's Hospital is committed to helping children and their families know what to expect and get the assistance they need. We work hard to provide the highest quality care. We offer specialties that are ranked among the best in the nation鈥攁ll in a bright, welcoming atmosphere where children can be children and feel as comfortable as possible.