A mother’s persistence helped save her child’s life. Learn tips for speaking up and getting the care your child needs.
Revised July 11, 2026
Contributed by: Holly Perzy, MD, MMM / Department Chair of Internal Medicine-Pediatrics
Speaking Up for Your Child’s Health
When your child is sick, you want to do everything you can to help them feel better. Sometimes babies and young children cannot tell you what is wrong. That is why parents play an important role in speaking up for their children’s health.
Mary Ortenzi learned this firsthand after her daughter, Sydney, was born. Even though Sydney was only a few days old, Mary noticed something did not seem right. Sydney was not having as many wet diapers as most newborns. Mary trusted her instincts and called her pediatrician, Holly Perzy, MD, MMM.
Dr. Perzy listened carefully to Mary’s concerns and scheduled an appointment right away. During the visit, she checked Sydney closely and ordered an ultrasound to look at her kidneys and nearby organs.
The ultrasound found an enlarged adrenal gland. Doctors decided to monitor it and repeat the ultrasound later. Even though Sydney seemed to be doing better, Mary still felt something was wrong. Two months later, another ultrasound showed the growth was still there. Dr. Perzy ordered more tests.
The tests suggested the growth could be neuroblastoma, a type of childhood cancer. Dr. Perzy referred Sydney to a specialist. Surgeons removed the growth and found that it was cancer. Fortunately, the entire tumor was removed, and Sydney did not need chemotherapy or radiation. Today, she is cancer-free.
Mary believes one reason her daughter got the care she needed was because she trusted her instincts and spoke up. She encourages other parents to do the same. If you feel something is not right with your child, keep asking questions and seek help until someone listens
Tips for Parents
Dr. Perzy offers these tips for advocating for your child:
- Trust your instincts. You know your child better than anyone.
- Find a pediatrician who listens and works with you.
- Ask questions if you do not understand something. Request simple explanations instead of medical jargon.
- Be careful about searching online. Some information may be inaccurate or frightening. Talk with your child’s doctor about your concerns.
- Remember that every child is unique. Statistics do not tell the whole story.
- Help your child feel safe, comforted, and supported during medical care.
Key Takeaway
Take the first step toward your child’s healthiest future.
Schedule a pediatric visit today and connect with care that supports your family.
Call 216-778-2222 to schedule an appointment. For more information, visit Pediatric Care at www.metrohealth.org.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How can I tell if something is wrong with my child?
A. Trust your instincts. Parents often notice changes in their child’s behavior, eating, sleeping, or overall well-being before anyone else. If something doesn’t seem right, contact your child’s healthcare provider and share your concerns.
Q: What should I do if I feel my concerns are not being heard?
A. Keep asking questions and speak up for your child. If you do not feel your concerns are being addressed, consider seeking a second opinion. Finding a healthcare provider who listens and communicates openly is important.
Q: How can I be a better advocate for my child’s health?
A. Ask questions, take notes during appointments, and make sure you understand your child’s diagnosis and treatment plan. Work closely with your healthcare team, share any concerns, and trust your knowledge of your child’s needs.
