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Commemorating a Year of Healing: Sophia’s Story
While many of us were cheerfully ringing in 2021 with friends and family, 5-year-old Sophia and her parents were grappling with devastating news — doctors had discovered a tumor in her pelvis.
Throughout the year, Sophia and her family spent countless hours traveling to UPMC Children’s from New Castle, Pa. In the neighborly spirit Pittsburgh is known for, Sophia received lots of love and support while she was receiving treatments.
Learn more about how philanthropy fuels pediatric cancer research
When Sophia arrived at the hospital that New Year’s Eve, she refused to wear her hospital gown. The nursing staff brought her a new nightgown that had been donated to the unit. Sophia’s mom Alyssa said, “[that nightgown] put the biggest smile on her face. She still wears it to this day.”
When Sophia’s hair began to fall out from chemotherapy, she struggled with having to part with her blonde locks. Her nurse Sam not only offered to cut Sophia’s hair but also promised that, in return, Sophia could cut his!
After a year of intensive chemotherapy, surgery, and physical and occupational therapy, Sophia’s treatment came to an end in October 2021 when she received the news that she was cancer-free! Sophia got to ring in 2022 happy, healthy, and thankful for her excellent care and the dedicated staff at UPMC Children’s.
The Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation Awards Grant to Further Cancer Research
Named for legendary golfer and Latrobe native Arnold Palmer and his wife, Winnie, the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation is committed to making a difference in the lives of children and families.
Sydney’s Story
Sydney was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Urea Cycle Disorder / Ornithine Transcarbamylase deficiency (UCD/OTC) at just one year old.
World-Class Palliative Care for Every Child and Family, at Every Stage of Life
The new Division of Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care aims to build a future where there are no barriers to this life-changing care.
Lorenzo’s Journey to the Heart Institute at UPMC Children’s
Within days of his birth, a team of skilled surgeons at UPMC Children’s performed open heart surgery on Lorenzo.
Children’s Trust Grants $100,000 for Startup Pediatric Research
Each spring, a group of hand-selected researchers pitch next generation, budding research concepts to members of the Children’s Trust for a chance at winning seed funding to help kickstart their research.
Welcoming New Leadership on the Board of Trustees
Learn more about Vanessa and what inspires her to serve UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh so proudly, in her own words.
Philanthropy Supports Individualized Behavioral Health Care
Throughout our hospital, there are many licensed psychologists dedicated to supporting specific service lines.
2023 Walk for Children’s: Celebrating Our First $1 Million Walk
Walk for Children’s, presented by UPMC and UPMC Health Plan, reached new heights this year, gathering 4,157 walkers, 255 teams, and 54 sponsors.