Our Stories
Each year, Franciscan Children’s helps thousands of children find the courage to reach their full potential. Explore some of the amazing stories crafted every day by our passionate patients, students, families, and staff.
Want to share your story? Send it our way to stories@franciscanchildrens.org.
Isaiah’s Story
5-year-old Isaiah defied all odds after being diagnosed with an emerging polio-like condition — acute flaccid myelitis.
Molly’s Story
A home run to remember: how Molly succeeded in our medical units and in life.
Anabelle’s Story
After spending 13 months inpatient, Anabelle’s ready to blossom alongside her twin sister at home.
Joey’s Story
Joey was born premature and his survival was uncertain. 22 years later he has now graduated from the Kennedy Day School.
Liz & Gisele’s Story
The incredible story of one nurse’s unexpected journey to adoption.
Javan’s Story
Javan was injured in a terrible accident that nearly took his life. After months of inpatient treatment, he is finally home.
Dawayne’s Story
After three years inside hospital walls, Dawayne will finally experience a world with his three older brothers and loving mother at home.
Nina’s Story
Kennedy Day School has provided Nina with an education, therapeutic and health services and a second family.
Ben’s Story
Ben now uses his words instead of aggressive behavior because he knows his voice is heard.
Nathan’s Story
From the day Nathan arrived, his enthusiasm, positive spirit, and great sense of humor never faltered.
Judah’s Story
Born at just 26 weeks, Judah’s courageous spirit and committed care team helped him grow and thrive.
Luke’s Story
A special bond between Luke and his doctor helped him get the life-saving treatment he needed to thrive.
Stephen’s Story
Born at 25 weeks and just 13 ounces, Stephen and his family don’t give up.
Jenn’s Story
On the outside Jenn came across like many other kids. What people couldn’t see was on the inside, the pain behind her smile.
Owen’s Story
Owen couldn’t go to school successfully, maintain friendships, or express his feelings. Until he got the support he needed.
Sam’s Story
Sam wasn’t the kind of girl who looked like someone plagued by depression.
Kayden’s Story
A tiny performer who doesn’t let his tubes trip him up.
Massimo’s Story
Massimo was born three months premature at just two pounds.
Tom’s Story
Tom’s bright mind and unique interests helped him become who he is today.
Brandon’s Story
Brandon Smart has been a fighter from the very beginning.
Mae’s Story
Mae’s smile makes everyone smile.
Hannah’s Story
Music Therapy helps Hannah show incredible signs of improvement in the areas she needs it the most.
Kevin’s Story
Kevin is determined. His confidence is ever building, he is learning to self-advocate, and he is a friend to all.
Eamonn’s Story
At 24 weeks the doctor told Meghan that she was in labor. The new parents didn’t know what to expect.
Jacob Q’s Story
When 2 ½ year old Jacob fell from a third story window, life for the Qua family was turned upside down.
Maisey’s Story
Maisey received the one-on-one help she needed to cope with her mental health challenges.
Bella’s Story
Bella’s progress is amazing to see! She continues to thrive in school, in her community.
Christian’s Story
Gradually, with the help of his care team, Christian began to gain back his strength and mobility.
Justin’s Story
After 9 months of intensive therapy, it was a miracle to watch Justin walk out of Franciscan.
Nick’s Story
With superhero-like courage, Nick fought back from inexplicable seizures and a medically-induced coma.