Meet Kaileigh!

Kaileigh’s first experience at MaineHealth Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital was when she was first born- she came early, at 34 weeks and 2 days, and spent time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

When she was about two years old, Kaileigh started experiencing gastrointestinal issues, and began her care journey with several MaineHealth Pediatric Specialty Care providers. Kaileigh is also a “frequent flier” at MaineHealth Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital, and has undergone numerous surgeries, procedures, and hospital admissions over nine years.

Kaileigh is currently fed through a feeding tube which assists in getting her necessary nutrition to grow and thrive.

Despite the challenges she faces, Kaileigh and her family focus on the positive in her medical journey. As her mom, Amy, explains, “No one wants to be in the hospital and have scary things happen. However, Kaileigh has been blessed to have the best nurses, doctors, and child life specialists look after her. They have explained her procedures, walked the floor with her, and even given her hugs when she’s cried.”

When she’s able, Kaileigh likes to stay active and participates in cheerleading. She’s also an official member of the University of New England Women’s Lacrosse team, thanks to Team Impact!

Kaileigh is grateful for the care team- and especially the awesome nurses- that have looked after her. In fact, they’ve inspired her to want to help other kids: when she grows up, Kaileigh wants to be a pediatric oncology nurse, so that she can be be the same kind of nurse as those who have watched over her.