Nine-year-old Noa is full of creativity, kindness, and leadership. She loves swimming, crafting, and pageants, and she dreams of one day becoming a US Navy Blue Angels Pilot. Her bright personality and determination shine through in everything she does.
But when Noa was just an infant in March 2016, her family faced one of the scariest moments of their lives. After being taken to Medpoint and then another hospital, Noa was diagnosed with RSV bronchiolitis, respiratory distress, and a severe ear infection. She was discharged home, but her condition worsened quickly. With the heartbreaking memory of losing one of their twin boys after 14 months in the NICU, Noa’s parents knew how dangerous her struggle to breathe was. They brought her to Beacon Children’s Hospital, where she was admitted immediately.
For several days, Noa remained hospitalized in the pediatric unit, requiring oxygen and close monitoring. It was frightening for her family, especially as her grandmother was also hospitalized at Beacon with RSV at the same time. But in those difficult days, Beacon’s team provided expert care, compassion, and hope. Nurses were attentive and reassuring, giving Noa’s family the confidence that she was exactly where she needed to be.
The day Noa was discharged safely was a milestone her parents will never forget. Watching her breathe easily again was a moment of profound relief and gratitude. Staff who had cared for Noa’s brothers in the NICU even came to visit, showing once again how Beacon was more than just a hospital—it was family.
Today, Noa is thriving. She is a strong, spirited girl who has turned a frightening start in life into a story of resilience. Recently, she was chosen to be a Junior Irish Reporter with Notre Dame Athletics. For her family, it was an exciting and meaningful opportunity to celebrate how far she has come. For Noa, it was a memory that she will carry with her for a lifetime.
“Noa is amazing,” her parents say simply, and with deep gratitude. “Beacon has been a huge part of our lives and has been there for some of the most difficult moments we have faced. We will forever be grateful for all the victories, memories, and amazing people we’ve met.”
Because of your support, Beacon Children’s Hospital is able to provide lifesaving care close to home, along with moments of joy and hope for families like Noa’s.
Learn how you can support kids like Noa at Beacon Children’s Hospital: https://foundation.beaconhealthsystem.org/give-now/
