Daniela Guzzetta – Children’s Miracle Network Miracle Child

Little Daniela Guzzetta has overcome many obstacles in her short life. Born early via an urgent caesarean section, Daniela has always been a fighter. Preliminary fetal echocardiogram testing before her birth indicated that Daniela could have Down syndrome, a condition in which extra chromosomes cause delays in the way a child develops, both physically and mentally. Aware of this possibility, her parents, Joe and Carolina, carefully prepared for her arrival. According to her father, “It was the longest twenty minutes of my life,” as he awaited news from the operating room of Daniela’s safe delivery. During her 19-day stay in the Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Mother Frances Hospital, Daniela’s care was coordinated by neonatologist, Dr. Brenda Morris. In addition, on-staff pediatric specialists were called in to evaluate her. Dr. Colin Kane, a pediatric cardiologist, was consulted to evaluate for any heart defect, a common occurrence in babies with Down syndrome. Trinity Mother Frances geneticist Dr. Kari Casas also evaluated Daniela at birth to confirm the diagnosis.

Shortly after discharge from the NICU, Daniela developed fever and was not eating well. On recommendation, the family took Daniela to the Emergency Care Center for evaluation. Daniela was diagnosed with viral meningitis and was admitted to the Children’s Center at Mother Frances Hospital. Following her recovery and return home, she developed an upper respiratory infection that also required hospitalization.

Having a child with special health care needs can be difficult and challenging. Daniela became a patient of the Trinity Pediatrics Special Needs Clinic early on, a program made possible by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Dr. Rick Rogers, Chief of Pediatrics for Trinity Mother Frances Hospitals and Clinics, is the Guzzetta’s family pediatrician. According to Dr. Rogers, “Daniela is a true miracle in every sense of the word. She has overcome great obstacles in her short life.” Now a happy, thriving one-year-old, Daniela makes The Special Needs Clinic her medical home and receives her care right here close to home so that her family can enjoy life to its fullest.

To help families like the Guzzetta receive premium care and assistance, please call to make a donation to support the Children's Miracle Network - 9036.531.5437. One hundred percent of the funds raised for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals locally stay right here at Trinity Mother Frances to provide life-saving pediatric equipment and medical services to children in our area.