At the end of September, The Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial celebrated the grand opening of its new, dedicated pediatric hematology/oncology and stem cell transplant unit with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Childhood cancer specialists will provide enhanced, comprehensive pediatric cancer care in the new HEPA-filtered and positive pressure unit, which reduces the risk of infection while allowing children to explore outside of their room during a hospital stay.
"It is inspiring to work with such strong children and their families. We created a space where a child can feel like a child while receiving cutting-edge therapies," said Haydar Frangoul, MD, pediatric hematologist/oncologist with TriStar Children's Hospital and Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute. "As part of Sarah Cannon's Blood Cancer Network, we offer comprehensive, personalized care, including blood and marrow transplants, with the highest levels of quality, training and technology to ensure our patients get access to the latest treatments in their blood cancer journey."
Established to treat infants, children, adolescents and young adults, the new 20,000 square-foot 11-bed unit also houses a dedicated playroom to make a child's stay feel more like the comfort of their own home. A Ronald McDonald Family Room is located just steps away where parents can utilize sleeping, showering and laundry services. Child life specialists assist patients' emotional and cognitive needs, as well as provide family-centered care during the initial diagnosis and milestones of hospitalization.
"Our department acts as an extended family in a friendly environment and prides itself on being easily accessible to patients, families and their pediatricians," said Jennifer Domm, MD, pediatric hematologist/oncologist with TriStar Children's Hospital and Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute. "Finding out that your child has cancer is news that no parent should ever have to hear. Dr. Frangoul and I are committed to ensuring each child we treat has access to the best possible treatment options and therapies in supporting our patient's journey on the road to remission."
