Novant Health Hemby Children's Hospital

04/10/2026

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The Novant Health Pediatric Surgery team took time to reflect at the pinwheel garden outside Novant Health Presbyterian Medical center. The campaign’s blue pinwheel symbol serves as a reminder to us all that children deserve the opportunity to live safe, healthy and happy lives.

04/08/2026

We were so grateful to welcome the team from Johnson Rare Love Foundation to Novant Health Hemby Children's Hospital this week!

Founded by one of our own physicians, Dr. Megan Johnson, the nonprofit was created to support local families navigating rare pediatric diseases. Born from Dr. Johnson’s personal journey following her son’s rare diagnosis and a deep commitment to serve others, the Johnson family continues to turn faith into action for those who need it most.

During their visit, they generously dropped off thoughtful goodie bags for several of our patients — small gestures carrying a message of hope and community.

04/07/2026

New moms – this one is for you.

Lactation consultant Dayna Slomba shares how Novant Health’s Warm Line is here for you:

This phone support resource connects patients with answers to breastfeeding questions or concerns. Call Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and our team will connect you with a lactation consultant as soon as possible.

If you're calling after hours, leave a detailed message and one of our evening or weekend lactation consultants will return your call as soon as they can.

Call the line at 704-384-7515!

04/06/2026

For kids with asthma, spring allergies can hit harder than you think. 🌼

If your child’s coughing or wheezing seems to come out of nowhere, allergens like pollen may be the trigger.

The good news? A few simple steps can make a big difference:

You’ve crawled into bed and are just drifting blissfully off to sleep, when you hear the dreaded sound: wheezing. Thirty minutes and several albuterol treatments later, your child’s wheezing has only gotten worse. Is it time to seek emergency care, or ...

04/02/2026

Dr. Nazario D. Rivera Chaparro’s journey into medicine began after a difficult experience in his own family. When his father almost faced serious complications due to a misdiagnosis, Dr. Rivera Chaparro decided he wanted to become the kind of physician who listens carefully and does everything possible to help patients get back to their every day.

As a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at Novant Health, he treats challenging illnesses caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites — helping young patients recover from conditions that often require highly specialized care.

Today, the most rewarding part of his work is seeing his patients feel better. Whether it’s a big smile or even a little playful snark when they’re back to themselves, those moments are a reminder of the impact compassionate care can make. 💜

03/31/2026

As Child Life Specialist Month comes to a close, we’re celebrating our child life specialists who bring joy, comfort, and hope to children and families facing medical challenges.

We're so grateful for their work creating a sense of normalcy in the hospital through play, education and emotional support—helping children navigate their health journeys with courage and confidence. 🧸

Join us in recognizing their compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of young patients and their families.

Thank you for all that you do! 👏

03/20/2026

Parents — save this when emergency strikes. 🚨

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the dedicated pediatric emergency department at Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital — designed just for kids, with specialized teams ready 24/7.

Starting at check-in and moving our way through kid-friendly treatment rooms, we’re showing you around — because having a mental map can bring a little calm to a stressful moment.

03/16/2026

Dr. Felipe Bautista Otanez was recognized at the 2026 North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Vaccines for Children Conference for his work within the Novant Health's sickle cell anemia program, where his team implemented an innovative approach to improving vaccine access and uptake for patients. By integrating immunization services directly into specialty care visits, the program helps remove barriers for families while strengthening protection for a high-risk population.

This model is already showing promise that it could help improve immunization rates across North Carolina.

Congratulations to Dr. Bautista Otanez and the entire team at Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital for their dedication to advancing the health and safety of our patients and communities. 💜

03/13/2026

Join us in wishing the Clemson Men's Basketball good luck during the ACC tournament! 💜

02/28/2026

With Daylight Saving time coming up, parents might be thinking about giving their kids melatonin to help them adjust.

According to pediatrician Dr. Megan Collins, melatonin isn’t typically recommended for kids unless you’ve spoken with your pediatrician. It may help short term in certain cases, but it’s not considered a long-term solution.

Instead, focus on strong sleep habits:
✨ Consistent bed and wake times (even on weekends)
📵 No screens two hours before bed
📱 Keep phones out of the bedroom
🌞 Keep active in the daytime and get plenty of natural light

02/24/2026

Surgery doesn’t have to be scary for your little ones. Discover how Novant Health’s pediatric surgeons and child life specialists help kids and parents feel informed, supported and confident every step of the way. 🩺

A Novant Health pediatric surgeon shares how her team helps kids — and parents — face surgery with confidence, care and even fun.