Pavilion for Women's Blog

I am hopeful that Kellen will look back proudly at the media attention he received as an infant. Kellen Davis, born February 28, underwent open fetal surgery repair of his myelomeningocele defect at Texas Children’s Fetal Center.

There are many ways that neonatologists organize their days and nights. Neonatologists, in common with other doctors who care for critically ill patients, generally work in a pattern in which they spend a block of time caring for patients Monday - Friday, but then are "on call" over weekends, holidays and at night. Weekends and holidays may have either the weekday doctors or other members of the group providing daytime care.

My son James was born in 2009 at 31 weeks weighing an even 3 pounds. He had his first major surgery when he was only a few days old. He was diagnosed with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), a short esophagus and a few other internal abnormalities. He spent his first 6 months in the NICU, with Mom and Dad at his side.

The first week in August marks the 20th World Breastfeeding Week. Much has happened since the inaugural celebration in 1991 — a tremendous amount of research and experiences by scientists, clinicians and mothers highlighting the benefits of breastfeeding and human milk. The theme of this year’s celebration is Understanding the Past-Planning for the Future. But what is the best course to take to plan for the future based on our past experiences? I have a few thoughts….