Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City Crittenton Children's Center

09/25/2025

During Trauma Smart training at Kellybrook Elementary, staff explored struggles using a finger trap—sometimes the best way forward is to stop pulling and find a new approach together.

Chris (right), a Trauma Smart trainer, facilitated a great training with energy and insight. As a Trauma Smart partner, Kellybrook is working to create sustainable, systemic change using the Trauma Smart approach—equipping staff with strategies that strengthen relationships and support both students and adults.

Learn more about Trauma Smart: https://traumasmart.org

09/18/2025

Congratulations to Joanna, an acute inpatient behavioral health tech, for being honored with the Saint Luke’s BEE Award (Be Exceptional Every Day)!

The BEE Award honors and celebrates nursing assistants, medical assistants, technicians, and therapists who provide compassionate care, demonstrate clinical excellence, and serve as outstanding role models every day.

“Miss Joanna did a great job in making my stay comfortable, and I absolutely loved how she made us all feel special by giving us stickers and tending to our personal needs,” her nomination reads.

Thank you, Joanna, for your dedication and hard work in providing excellent care to our patients and community every day. We are proud that you are part of the Crittenton team! 💙

09/16/2025

Juanita, a foster care case manager at Crittenton Children’s Center, brightens everyone’s day. It’s why she was recently honored with the Saint Luke’s Sunshine Award! 🎉

The Saint Luke’s Sunshine Award honors non-clinical employees who demonstrate kindness and character while ensuring patients receive the best possible care.

“Juanita is often going above and beyond the expectations of her duties in helping the families she works with succeed in reunifying,” Juanita’s nomination reads. “Not only does she focus on her clients, but she is also extremely supportive, helpful, and outgoing with her colleagues. She is the true definition of sunshine!”

Thank you, Juanita, for your dedication to providing excellent care to our patients and community every day! 💙

09/12/2025

Dana’s cancer journey began in August 2022 when persistent stomach issues brought him to Saint Luke’s Community Hospital in Roeland Park, Kansas. A CT scan revealed a cancerous mass nearly completely blocking his entire colon. He was transferred to Saint Luke's North Hospital where Dr. Ben Kulow, a colorectal surgeon, performed surgeries to address the blockage.

Unfortunately, Dana’s cancer had spread to his liver, where tumors had released high serotonin levels that damaged his heart valve. Dr. Marc Roth, a gastrointestinal oncologist, prescribed lanreotide injections to help control the tumors and lower serotonin—but this was only a temporary solution.

In November 2024, Dana received open-heart surgery to replace his tricuspid valve, which was around the same time Dr. Roth started discussing LUTATHERA®, a targeted radioactive therapy specifically for neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) found in the gut or pancreas. This leading-edge treatment destroys the cancer cells causing serotonin spikes while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Through Dr. Sunpreet Rakhra, a radiation oncologist, Dana became Saint Luke’s first-ever LUTATHERA recipient. After two treatments, his serotonin levels dropped dramatically—from 2,200 nanograms per milliliter to a normal 170.

“It sounds scary to be the guinea pig,” Dana says, “But I actually felt honored that I had the privilege and opportunity. Hopefully this therapy can help somebody else along the way, too.”

Dana’s treatment journey has been guided by a collaborative team of diverse medical experts whose combined knowledge and specialized skills have ensured every aspect of his care is carefully managed. While there is no cure for NET, Dana has still been able to travel the world since LUTATHERA. He says it’s a blessing he’s still able to go on these adventures.

“Planning trips has been good therapy for me,” he says. “I like planning and figuring out where we’re going to go next.”

Check out Dana's full story: https://heyor.ca/CXHoHN

09/11/2025

The Trauma Smart team was honored to present at the National Community Action Partnership (NCAP) Convention in August!

We are proud to support Community Action Agencies nationwide, including efforts to implement trauma-informed care, offer leadership development, and provide professional development that strengthens staff well-being.

If your organization is ready to deepen its commitment to staff wellness and trauma-informed practices, we’d love to partner with you. Learn more about Trauma Smart: https://heyor.ca/pExIBY

09/10/2025

More than 250 Saint Luke’s team members came together to make a difference at this year’s Head For The Cure 5K in Kansas City! 🏃

The team raised more than $30,000 to support brain tumor research, raise awareness, and foster hope within our community. Funds raised will directly benefit Saint Luke’s patients through groundbreaking research and advancements in brain tumor care at Saint Luke's Marion Bloch Neuroscience Institute.

This year, neuro-oncologist Dr. Samuel Goldlust presented three Saint Luke's patients with the Courage Award—recognizing them for their strength and resilience.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us to support this important cause. 💙

09/09/2025

Dr. Megan Mayer from Saint Luke's Rockhill Orthopaedic Specialists recently kicked off yoga at Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts by speaking about how yoga can benefit people at every stage of life.

Yoga is more than just a workout—it promotes flexibility, stability, and mental wellness while helping build a strong core that supports balance and protects joints. Because it’s a low-impact activity, yoga can be an important tool in recovery from pain or injury, and even some of Dr. Mayer’s surgical patients use it as part of their healing process. For those with conditions like arthritis, yoga offers a way to stay active without the strain of high-impact exercise.

No matter your age or ability, the goal is simple: keep moving to support both your body and your mind for lifelong health.

09/08/2025

As families recently posted their back-to-school photos and chalkboard signs, we wanted to get in on the action to celebrate the spirit of health care, where learning never stops.

Many of our team members have been in health care for years, even decades. From navigating new technology to figuring out life lessons, the learning that happens day in and day out helps shape who we are. Check out some of our longtime team members' colorful responses.

09/04/2025

When Saint Luke's Muriel I. Kauffman Women's Heart Center and Saint Luke's Cancer Institute join forces to educate our community on the importance of women's health, the result is a Gem of a Night!

The inaugural Saint Luke's Gem of a Night event brought a full house to the luxurious Meierotto Jewelers with bejeweled flowers, live music, and a picturesque balloon display provided by Up, Up & Away! Cardiologist Dr. Tracy Stevens and breast radiologist Dr. Ruby Meierotto gave eye-opening presentations about heart and breast health.

Together, we’re empowering women with knowledge, sparking conversations, and shining a brighter light on the future of women’s health.

09/03/2025

This calls for a celebration! Terry, a medical lab scientist at Saint Luke's South Hospital, recently reached her 50th work anniversary with Saint Luke's. She started at Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City in 1975 and transferred to South in 2011.

"I like my job. I feel like this is the best system to work for," said Terry. "It's the family atmosphere. We know about everybody we pass in the hallway, and we call them by their name. I like that. I'm not ready to retire yet. This is still my happy place."

Cheers to you, Terry! Thank you for your years—decades!—of service. 💙

09/02/2025

Dr. Elizabeth Grier’s interest in math and science led her to a career in medicine. In college, she loved learning about the heart in her physiology classes. Today, she is a Saint Luke’s interventional cardiologist.

“I specifically developed an interest in interventional cardiology because I really like working with my hands and appreciate the variety that comes with working in the cath lab,” said Dr. Grier. “I get to do a lot of different procedures, so no two days are completely alike.”

Dr. Grier treats a wide range of heart conditions, including valve repairs and replacements. She has a special interest in helping patients who were born with heart defects because she enjoys the challenge of working with their unique anatomy. Her role at Saint Luke's allows her to participate in important clinical research that is advancing the field.

“The field of structural interventions is rapidly evolving, which allows us to incorporate new technologies today that weren’t available even a year or two ago,” she said. “I feel it is important to take a patient-centered approach, incorporating the values and preferences of the patient and their family into their care decisions.”

At the end of the day when she takes off her lab coat, Dr. Grier is most likely reading a book or riding on her Peloton. She is also learning Spanish, a skill that will undoubtedly be useful with patients.

08/29/2025

Jaylen will play his first football game as a college athlete at MoWest tomorrow. Two years ago, he broke his collarbone during practice on his high school team, and playing in college seemed like it may never happen. He feared for the future of his football career—until he got a second opinion from Dr. Larry Frevert at Saint Luke's Rockhill Orthopaedic Specialists.

Watch the FOX4 News Kansas City story about this college freshman's big comeback: https://heyor.ca/bLtQfW

08/27/2025

Ten years ago, doctors estimated Melissa had about three years to live.

In March 2015, Melissa was experiencing severe headaches. On March 25, the pain became overwhelming, and her husband Don called for help. An ambulance took Melissa to Wright Memorial Hospital, and an MRI revealed Melissa had glioblastoma—a serious form of cancer that originates in the brain with a five-year survival rate of about 5%.

Melissa was sent to Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City for emergency surgery, followed by chemo, radiation, and rehab. Ten years later, Melissa, 68, has recovered physically, emotionally, and spiritually—and now greets each day with excitement.

“I wake up smiling, and it carries with me,” Melissa says. “It's in everything you see, every song you hear. It's everywhere.”

In 2023, Melissa began seeing Dr. Samuel Goldlust, a neuro-oncologist, for continuing care.

"Dr. Goldlust is very impressive," Don said. "He took the time to understand our history before entering the room."

Though Melissa has physical limitations and had to relearn to speak, she embraces what her body can manage and cherishes time she once feared she’d lose. Melissa and Don recently saw their son graduate from Kansas State University summa cm laude—another one of those little moments that mean so much.

Melissa and Don saw firsthand how Saint Luke’s stands apart through our dedication to advanced cancer research and treatments. With support from generous donors, we deliver leading-edge care to thousands of patients. 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘂𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲, 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗲: https://heyor.ca/Ji6lOs

08/26/2025

Happy to our beloved Saint Luke's Rehabilitation Institute facility dog, Henli! You bring joy, hope, and comfort to patients every day and motivate them to work hard. Thank you for reminding us of the healing power of unconditional love. 💙 🐾

08/22/2025

Summer sunshine offers many joys—but it also comes with some risks. Skin cancer remains the most common type of cancer in the U.S., affecting 1 in 5 individuals.

Dr. Megan McNally, a surgical oncologist at Saint Luke's Cancer Institute, emphasizes sun protection strategies and the crucial role of early detection. Watch her conversation with KCTV5 News Kansas City to learn how to protect your skin: https://heyor.ca/SM8H5E

Megan McNally, MD, a surgical oncologist with Saint Luke's Cancer Institute, shares tips on sun protection and early skin cancer detection.

08/21/2025

Dr. B. Todd Moore recently completed his 2,000th robotic surgery at Saint Luke's South Hospital! He performed the first robotic procedure at Saint Luke's South in 2016 and has seen the technology evolve firsthand.

Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive technique where the surgeon controls robotic arms from a remote console. It uses smaller incisions, improves precision, and leads to faster recovery for the patient. The program at Saint Luke’s South has grown exponentially in volume, case offerings, and multispecialty usage over the past nine years.

“I think it’s amazing how far we’ve come in regards to robotic surgery,” said Dr. Moore. “It is a significantly advantageous technology used not just by me and Saint Luke's Surgical Specialists, but by nearly all specialties at Saint Luke’s to offer the best care to our patients.”

Saint Luke’s offers a one-year fellowship for graduating surgeons to learn and master robotic surgery. Thanks in part to Dr. Moore’s work, general surgeons are being trained in these advanced procedures.

“The common misconception is that the 'robot' is performing the surgery,” Dr. Moore said. “The robot is simply a highly sophisticated piece of technology that we use. The surgeon is hands-on for the entire procedure.”

Saint Luke’s South is on pace to reach 3,500 robotic surgeries later this year. With Dr. Moore’s milestone and the program’s continued growth, Saint Luke’s South proudly stands at the forefront of robotic surgery, transforming lives today and shaping the future of patient care.

08/21/2025

A few Crittenton residents recently enjoyed a fun-filled trip to the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium exploring exhibits, spotting their favorite animals, and making unforgettable summer memories.

Thank you to the Kansas City Zoo for making this adventure possible! 🐠

08/18/2025

Back-to-school is more than books and backpacks—it’s an emotional transition for kids, too. 📚🎒

Support your child’s mental health this school year with these strategies:
✔ See your child first – notice who they are, not just what they do.
✔ Build strong routines – predictability creates a sense of safety.
✔ Make room for feelings – all emotions are valid and worth listening to.
✔ Watch for warning signs – changes in mood, behavior, or friendships matter.

If you notice your child struggling, don’t wait. Early support can make all the difference—and we’re here to help. If you need support, contact Crittenton Children’s Center today. Learn more: https://heyor.ca/xxTSbH

08/15/2025

Thank you to the Missouri Dept. of Conservation educators who visited with Crittenton residents to teach them all about Missouri’s native snakes. Residents had the opportunity to see snakes up close, ask questions, and learn about the vital role these reptiles play in our ecosystem. 🐍

It was a hands-on experience that sparked curiosity and helped us appreciate the beauty of the world around us!

08/12/2025

Special guest alert! 🐾

Linus the pup and a humane educator from Wayside Waifs recently paid a visit to Crittenton to teach residents all about pet care and responsibilities. Residents learned about dog body language and communication during this informative lesson on what it means to care for a furry friend.

It was a paws-itively great time for all! 🐶

08/08/2025

Crittenton's leadership council recently came together for a retreat focused on collaboration, shared goals, and strategic planning. It was a valuable opportunity to connect, align on priorities, and strengthen our commitment to serving patients and communities.

We are united in purpose and proud of the system we represent. 💙

07/25/2025

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table to connect with Crittenton Children's Center at the Missouri Su***de Prevention Conference! We enjoyed sharing resources and having meaningful conversations with all of you.

We are honored to be part of a community so deeply committed to hope, healing, and prevention. 💙

07/16/2025

Trauma Smart has been busy this spring! We’ve had the privilege of presenting at several conferences, connecting with incredible professionals, and deepening community education around trauma-informed care.

We’re grateful for every opportunity to engage, share, and grow with our communities, because healing and resilience start with understanding.

Trauma Smart aims to help children and the adults that care for them address the negative impact of violence and trauma. Learn more: https://heyor.ca/pExIBY

07/15/2025

Krystin, a radiology supervisor at Saint Luke's South Hospital, donated a total of 60 backpacks to our employee school supply drive, benefitting Crittenton Children's Center! She says she set a personal goal of participating in at least one charitable cause per year, and this year she chose to help kids in need.

"I love giving back to my community," said Krystin. "I reached out to my teacher friends and asked what would have more impact—supplies, or a backpack? They all said backpack."

Krystin's thoughtful gift will help many children in residential and foster care start the school year strong. Thank you, Krystin, for making a difference where it's needed most!

Crittenton Children's Center works to find stable, loving homes for children in need. See a list of year-round needs and donation information now: https://heyor.ca/CubYyK.