Atrium Health Levine Children’s Brenner Children’s Hospital

09/07/2025

Before turning 12, Atrium Health Levine Children’s Brenner Children’s Hospital patient Shane found out that he had Stage 3 Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma after experiencing sudden pain. Because the cancer had already reached his spleen and tonsils, Shane had to undergo chemotherapy. During his treatment, Shane had to rely on a feeding tube due to drastic weight loss and fought through septic shock caused by lung nodules. Now, with his last treatment behind him, Shane is waiting for his final PET scan and hopes to ring the bell in October.

Shane’s resilience is matched only by his selflessness and the kindness he brings to those around him. When he’s not watching football with his brother or cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs, Shane enjoys riding his bike, hanging out with friends or doing something creative like building LEGOs or drawing.

As our special guest for the 2nd annual Gold Rush game, Shane had a VIP spot for pregame warmups, cheered on the Deacs from the sidelines and took the field with the team.

We’re so inspired by your journey, Shane! 🏈🎗️

09/03/2025

Before he was even born, Atrium Health Levine Children’s Brenner Children’s Hospital patient Everette’s journey was already filled with tough obstacles.

Diagnosed with Down Syndrome, he has navigated asthma, a trach and vent, and a series of health complications that led to him being hospitalized multiple times. After spending months in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and having several visits with specialists, Everette eventually built a strong relationship with the team that has cared for him.

Now about to start 3rd grade, Everette is especially excited to play football in the Challenger League, a program where children with disabilities can fully participate, gaining confidence, friendships and the chance to be recognized for their skills—making the experience truly exciting.

Everette makes the most of every moment, whether he’s dancing, playing Roblox, going to the beach or watching Spy Ninjas on YouTube. Most of all, he reminds us the importance of being present and valuing each moment.

09/01/2025

Talk to any parent, and they can relate. It’s 4 a.m. and your child wakes up with a 102-degree fever. Your mind goes into panic mode as your plans for the day unravel – and the sun hasn’t even risen yet.

Chelsea’s Monday wasn’t off to a great start and she worried that trying to get five-year-old Ellison in to see a pediatrician quickly might not be easy. The flu was going around, and she’d have to wait until her pediatrician’s office opened later that morning to try to schedule.

But then Chelsea remembered a colleague mentioning new pediatric virtual primary care options through Atrium Health, where Chelsea works. A few clicks later, her day took a turn for the better – she booked a same-day virtual appointment with pediatrician Dr. Mandana Morales at 7:30 a.m.

“Dr. Morales made us feel so comfortable even though we were on the phone with her from our couch,” said Chelsea. “She even got to meet our new puppy!”

Dr. Morales quickly worked with Chelsea to make a plan that would help Ellison feel better soon, including sending a prescription to the local pharmacy while they were still on the phone.

“I was so relieved. We were able to go from planning to action,” said Chelsea. “The hard part was done, and we could just focus on caring for her. It gave us as much work-life balance as possible.”

Ellison was quickly on the mend and back to school by Wednesday – much earlier than many of her classmates who caught the same virus. Chelsea and her husband, Adam, both completed virtual appointments of their own to help prevent catching the flu, too.

“I was very adamant in trying to get her seen as soon as possible to help her feel better and not have to miss school if she didn’t have to,” said Chelsea. “I know that waiting longer to be seen would have negatively impacted how she felt and how long it took for her to recover.”

After this experience, Chelsea encourages everyone to try virtual primary care and says she’ll be back to see Dr. Morales again.

Learn more about Atrium Health Levine Children’s Pediatrics Virtual: https://bit.ly/414UBNt

08/25/2025

From hospital visits to the pitcher’s mound, Brycen’s story is one of strength 🙌

Recently, Brycen’s journey with sickle cell disease was celebrated in a major way. As an honorary guest of the Winston-Salem Dash, he was invited to throw out the ceremonial first pitch where he was recognized on the field and enjoyed the game from his VIP suite.

You’re a real MVP, Brycen! Thank you for entrusting us with your care and keep swinging for the fences. ⚾️

08/17/2025

As summer winds down, it’s the perfect time to help your kids start the school year strong, healthy and ready to learn.

Here are some simple steps to make the back-to-school transition smooth and stress-free.

Let’s make this school year the healthiest one yet! Schedule an appointment with a virtual primary care pediatrician and get your child ready for the school year: https://bit.ly/414UBNt

08/17/2025

08/15/2025

Busy parents, we see you. 👀 Pediatric virtual primary care makes it easier to get care for your family—without rearranging your day. Learn more: https://bit.ly/414UBNt

08/13/2025

Life is busy. Get convenient care for your child from a dedicated virtual primary care pediatrician who fits your schedule. Learn more: https://bit.ly/414UBNt

08/12/2025

08/03/2025

In 2023, Elijah, a 13-year-old from Granite Falls, experienced severe stomach pain during a soccer game that led to a trip to the hospital. After fainting from a routine finger prick, he was transported to Atrium Health Levine Children’s Brenner Children’s Hospital, where he and his family learned he had Type 1 diabetes—a diagnosis that changed their lives.

Adjusting to a new diagnosis is never easy, especially for a young athlete. Yet, Elijah has faced this journey with a strength and determination that continues to impress everyone around him. Today, Elijah has been able to continue playing soccer with close monitoring, treatment and a whole lot of love and support from his family and care team.

We celebrated Elijah tonight as he took the field to serve as our honorary captain at the Carolina Core FC match. His story of tenacity and resilience was shared with the arena. As he led the coin toss and took the ceremonial first kick, Elijah inspired everyone, from the field to the stands and beyond. ⚽️

07/29/2025

The Demon Deacons from Wake Forest Football took time off the field to bring joy to patients at Atrium Health Levine Children's Brenner Children’s Hospital in Winston-Salem. The team’s new head coach, Jake Dickert, and several players brought gifts, high-fives and smiles all around.

Thanks to these all-star visitors for making our kiddos feel like true MVPs—this team sure knows how to bring their A-game, both on and off the field! 💛🖤 We look forward to partnering again for the Gold Rush game this September as we rally together to raise awareness, fuel critical research and advance treatments for childhood cancer. 🎗️

07/26/2025