08/07/2025
Receiving monthly IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) infusions at St. Luke’s Hospital has been life-changing for 8-year-old Luke, who was diagnosed with PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) at age 4.5. PANS can cause the sudden onset of neurological and behavioral symptoms, such as mood changes, anxiety, and obsessive thoughts.
Each month, Luke spends two full days in our pediatric unit for his infusions. What could be a scary experience has become something he looks forward to, thanks to the caring team at St. Luke’s.
He's developed a passion for the medical field and is always asking his nurses thoughtful questions about the equipment, medications, and how everything works. He crafted his own IV pump which he uses to care for his favorite toys during treatments and at his own hospital setup at home. He recently had a nurse-themed birthday party, complete with an IV pump replica cake made by his mom.
Luke’s mom shared that his care team has become like friends, and they feel at home during his visits. Our pediatric nurses like Shaley, Jenny, Jennie, Tasia, Melissa, Holly, Ashley, Tami, Kim, Karee, Annie, and Tori, along with our techs Kourtney and Lexi, have played an especially meaningful role in his journey. His family appreciates the spacious patient rooms and access to the Ronald McDonald Family Room for a quick snack or place to relax. Thanks to the impact of IVIG and the exceptional care he receives, Luke is not only managing his condition, but enjoying his time in the hospital.