Hours after being born, Parker faced significant challenges from the very beginning. She had difficulty breathing on her own and was diagnosed with an incredibly rare and undocumented genetic mutation, including choanal atresia, craniosynostosis, and craniofacial syndrome.

Since her diagnosis was serious and would require multiple surgeries and ongoing medical care, it was imperative that Parker be treated by a multidisciplinary team of pediatric specialists equipped with the most advanced technology to ensure she received the best comprehensive care. Having been delivered at another hospital, Miles and Kelsey, Parker’s parents, put their trust initially in George Kamel, MD, surgical director of Pediatric Craniofacial and Plastic Surgery at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

Given the complex nature of her medical conditions, Amanda Porro, MD, medical director of Clinical Effectiveness and Complex Care at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, and her team became a critical part of Parker’s care team as well.

One of Parker’s biggest hurdles has been hearing loss. Traditional over-the-ear hearing aids were uncomfortable and ineffective. Once she transitioned to Bone Anchored Hearing Aids (BAHAs), a device that transmits sound through bone conduction, Parker experienced a dramatic improvement in her ability to hear and communicate. She could hear sounds she had never heard before, and her speech, tone and pitch improved significantly.

“Seeing Parker thriving just means the world to us. She’s defying the odds because clinically, she shouldn’t be able to do some of the things she does," said Dr. Porro.

Now that Parker is four, she continues to visit Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital regularly for ongoing care. Her medical team includes specialists in audiology, ENT, neurology, neurosurgery, complex care, genetics, cardiology, orthopedics, and immunology, each playing a role in helping her thrive. Despite the many medical appointments and challenges she faces, Parker’s spirit remains unshakable. She’s a shining light, hardworking in her therapy sessions, and always full of energy.

“For parents of a child with a very rare genetic condition and complex medical issues…our moments at home as a family are so important," said Kelsey, Parker's mom. "We are where we are because of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.”

“Everybody—from the people who come and clean her room all the way up to the CEO—has been absolutely wonderful," said Miles, Parker's dad. "After her first skull surgery, my little princess had a scar from ear to ear, and this CNA took the time to play with Parker and her toys, tell her how beautiful she was. That’s a great way to sum up what this hospital is. She took the time when she didn’t have to.”