Banner Children's patient defies odds after almost four months in the hospital

MESA (August 2, 2023) - In a remarkable display of resilience and bravery, 7-year-old Kaylee Truong successfully battled against life-threatening illnesses after spending 116 days at Banner Children's at Desert.

This extraordinary journey began when Kaylee arrived at the emergency room in March of this year. Initially, it was thought she was having an asthma attack as she had been diagnosed with the disease. Unfortunately, it was much worse and her battle to survive after her condition quickly deteriorated. Her extended stay in the hospital involved being admitted into the pediatric intensive care unit where she was put on a ventilator for 91 days.

During her time in the hospital, Kaylee faced a host of challenges, including pneumonia and septic shock. The severity of her condition eventually necessitated the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO); a life-saving technique that provides support for patients when their heart and lungs are no longer functioning on their own. Kaylee was placed on ECMO for 54 days.

While the odds were stacked against her, Kaylee was eventually able to overcome the obstacles that were trying to attack her fragile body. She not only survived but emerged to inspire all of those who have had the privilege of caring for her during a very emotional and stressful journey.

The medical staff at Banner Children’s has been so captivated by her recovery that recently they honored Kaylee and her parents during a Celebration of Champions event which recognizes patients who have overcome steep challenges and have demonstrated remarkable bravery in the face of hardship.

"We are extremely grateful for the incredible care and support provided by the Banner Children’s at Desert team," said Thoai Truong, Kaylee’s father. “We cannot express our gratitude enough."

Banner Children's at Desert provides pediatric care for children, from newborns to teens. Services include immediate access to Level I trauma services and emergency care, a Level III neonatal intensive care unit, general pediatrics, surgical and rehabilitation services, hematology/oncology, urology, gastroenterology, neurology and outpatient services. For more information, visit bannerhealth.com/bannerchildrensatdesert.