PHOENIX — At age eight, Norah Humphrey is thriving, but it was a different story when she was first born.
"It was pretty jarring to get that news and it was very confusing," said Sean Humphrey.
Her father Sean recalled the frantic first hours. "Nora was born at Banner Thunderbird and they immediately med-evaced her to Phoenix Children's and she went basically straight into a procedure when she was born," said Sean.
"Cause my leg or my foot is like crooked," added Norah.
"So, she had a clubfoot. She had an extra finger and she was born with a condition called transposition of the great arteries. And she ended up having two open heart surgeries and multiple heart cath procedures for that," said Sean.
They credit the doctors, advancing science and especially the world-class care at Phoenix Children's for Norah's success.
"I think that something that really sets these guys apart from other, you know, facilities or programs that we've interacted with is just the compassion, I think. And the level of service that they really do provide, in just comforting and caring for these kids. You know, we've had mixed experiences at some other programs or facilities she's been, but but PCH has always been consistent. And I think, I think that's something that's really important is that, you know, people. You can have intelligent and skilled doctors, but if the compassion piece is lacking, or if they if they can't, like speak with a child or speak to you in a way that makes sense, right for you to understand or internalize the things that are happening. That just makes such a huge difference," said Sean.
Norah and her dad shared photos of her journey with PCH. The pictures are all a tangible reminder for Norah of how far she's come.
"Do you feel like you're a pretty strong fighter type of person?" her dad asked her.
"Yeah," Norah replied.
"That's what I think," added Sean.
Norah's incredible story is just beginning.
"It's just such a blessing that she's doing so well and has gotten through all these things and gets to have a life, you know, because of their care that they've provided her there," said Sean.
You can make a difference for families like the Humphreys.
In The Community Banner
Nick Ciletti spent some time with those involved with St. Vincent de Paul's Companion Animal Program, which helps care for the pets of people in need:
"Being a pet owner myself, I know how much they become part of your family, and the thought of having to surrender an animal or not being able to afford proper care is heartbreaking to even think about. Through CAP, St. Vincent de Paul is throwing a lifeline to so many of these people - and pets - in need and helping them stay together. Sometimes, they're the only support system for each other. They helped about 20 pet owners that day, but I know the impact of the program goes beyond the four walls of the Washington Street shelter. I know it's helping these people realize there is hope and that this community cares."
On April 10th ABC15 is hosting its annual telethon benefiting Phoenix Children's hospital. We will be taking phone calls for donations from 6:00 a.m. until 10:35 p.m. that night.
You can also donate anytime by calling 602-933-4567 or going to ABC15.com/telethon.
