Hear our stories.


At ECU Health Maynard Children’s Hospital, we provide compassionate, expert care to thousands of patients every year. Our patients come from all over eastern North Carolina. They have many different conditions and experience unique paths on their treatment journeys – but through it all they experience the same level of warm, family-centered care. Hear stories from patients, families and staff who have started or completed their care journey with us … each one a unique journey of courage, hope and inspiration.

People of ECU Health spotlight

Rhianon “Rhi” Brock is a dedicated NICU nurse at the James & Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital who has a passion for putting patients first.

Rhianon “Rhi” Brock is a dedicated NICU nurse at ECU Health Maynard Children’s Hospital who has a passion for putting patients first. In fact, during the preparation of the photoshoot that accompanies this story, Rhi noticed one of the tiniest patients needed assistance and she hopped over to help. In that moment, nothing else mattered except the patient in need of care. As Rhi returned to the photoshoot she said proudly, “I’m a nurse first,” which underscores how she approaches the incredible work she does each day.

All Stories

Sledge Reaves

Born at just 26 weeks, Sledge Reaves faced many challenges early in his life. After four months of getting stronger in the NICU at the Maynard Children’s Hospital, he was finally able to go home. Learn more in this story.

Flora Perez Villagran

After being diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, Flora needed surgery and was told she may not walk again. She faced the challenge head on and she said her experience has brought her family closer together. Hear her story in this video.

Jamison Morgan

After 26 weeks gestation, Jamison made his arrival into the world at 1 pound and 4 ounces. He spent the first 116 days of his life at the Maynard Children’s Hospital. Today, his smile shows how far he has come.

Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

Generous donations help ECU Health provide high-quality care in positive, healing environments. One recent example is the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at the Maynard Children’s Hospital. See all that this unit offers our smallest patients.

Children’s Transport

A vital part of caring for children in 29 counties across eastern North Carolina is being able to transport them safely while they seek care. The Children’s Transport team and the ambulance funded by Children’s Miracle Network does just that for the patients and families we serve.

Hye-Jin Kim

Inspired by the birth of her own baby, violinist Hye-Jin Kim founded Lullaby Dreams to bring her musical gifts to other families at Maynard Children’s Hospital.

Blake Collie

Eight-year-old Blake is the survivor of a brain aneurysm. After 48 days in the PICU and Pediatric Rehab, Blake went home and has had a remarkable recovery.

Major Woods

Major, a six-year old with B-Cell Leukemia loves Iron Man and is a true hero to us all. Learn more about Major’s story here.

Molly & Lucy Davis

Molly and Lucy Davis have been fighters since day one. Born at 24 weeks gestation and extremely premature, they have proven how strong preemies really are.

Caleb Woodley

Caleb defied all odds returning to play football after learning to walk again. A diagnosis of viral encephalitis and a nine-week stay in the PICU would not slow him down.

Mason Burnette

Mason, born at 22 weeks gestation, has demonstrated the will of a preemie to survive despite all odds stacked against him. Being one of the youngest babies to survive, he discharged home 131 days later on Christmas Eve and will steal your heart with one glance.

Marlene Barcelona

Marlene, long-time nurse and assistant manager in the PICU, shares her story of what it means to be a nurse at Maynard Children’s Hospital and how our patients become family.

Help Us

To provide the best care for your children, we rely on donations and community support. With your help, we can continue to do so for generations to come.