Moyamoya Program | Patient Stories
When surgery shapes your life: Moyamoya patient turned doctor
Reflecting on her experience with moyamoya more than 24 years ago, Elizabeth Kwak describes the compassion and competency of her doctors at Boston Children's Hospital. Now, Elizabeth finds herself in their shoes as she finishes her clinical rotation in child neurology.
Superhero Joey: 5-year-old fights moyamoya disease
It’s been said that not all heroes wear capes — but Joey Gallagher owns several. The 5-year-old has already amassed a collection of superhero gear, from a Superman Halloween costume to a t-shirt emblazoned with the Batman logo. Yet even the most diehard comic book fan would likely admit that feats like flying, leaping tall buildings and fighting bad guys don’t hold a candle to the challenges this little boy has already surmounted.
Fighting for Kennedy: Coping with moyamoya disease
If you happen to be waiting in line at the supermarket with Kennedy Grace Cheshire, you’ll likely leave the store with a whole new group of friends. This outgoing 5-year-old can’t resist introducing herself to her fellow shoppers — and then introducing them to each other. “She’s never met a stranger,” says her mother.
Full Circle: From moyamoya patient to intern
Justin first came to Boston Children's Hospital for treatment of Moyamoya. Ten years later, he's back as a research intern.
After moyamoya surgery, a back-to-normal birthday for Carolyn
Carolyn Milks turns 8 on August 21. It’s a big celebration. Carolyn and her family aren’t just celebrating her birthday — they’re celebrating Carolyn’s return to normal. For most of the summer, things like swimming, riding her bicycle and horsing around with her sisters and cousins had been out of the question for Carolyn.
Moyamoya and childhood stroke: Catching up with Tyler and Ryan
Ryan and Tyler Earle of Winnipeg, Manitoba, had a ticking time bomb inside their heads. Both boys have a rare brain disorder called moyamoya that had caused the arteries feeding their brains to become dangerously narrowed.
From Bermuda to Boston for surgery to protect the brain of a boy with sickle cell disease
Calvin Steede, who lives in Bermuda, will never forget the day in 2011 when he saw the movie “Winnie the Pooh” with his mother and sister. The film ended, and suddenly the boy who likes to draw and play soccer couldn’t put on his backpack. His arms had stopped working.
Twin surgeries bring this family a stroke of luck
Ryan Earle is outgoing and upbeat, goofing around in his neurosurgeon’s office. He’s had two strokes, but he’s recovering steadily, a testament to the resilience of children’s brains. His twin brother Tyler, with him at the visit, has avoided a likely stroke altogether.
