When Kristin’s toddler faced a life-threatening illness, her instincts led her to the expert care teams at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital.
When Kristin noticed her 16-month-old son, Makoa, had a fever and a persistent cough, she trusted her instincts. A visit to a local urgent care didn’t provide clear answers—his tests came back negative for common infections, but his breathing and heart rate were alarming. After researching Makoa’s symptoms online, Kristin made the decision to take him to the emergency room at their local area hospital.
That decision led to a diagnosis of COVID-19, bronchiolitis, and respiratory failure. Because the pediatric department at their local area hospital couldn’t admit him, Makoa needed to be transferred to a full-service children’s hospital equipped for higher-level pediatric care.
Specialized Transport for Critical Care
Fortunately, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital has a dedicated Transport Program available 24/7, that specializes in safely transferring critically ill infants, children and teens. This highly skilled team of pediatric-trained physicians and nurses doesn’t just accompany patients—they often provide critical care en route, including advanced interventions to stabilize fragile conditions before arrival. For some babies, this can mean complex procedures such as therapeutic cooling to protect vital organs. In Makoa’s case, the team coordinated every aspect of Makoa’s transfer—from securing the ambulance to monitoring and supporting him throughout the ride—ensuring a seamless and reassuring experience for Kristin and her son.
“We know how scary it is for parents when their child is critically ill,” says Cheri Zepeda, RTT, respiratory shift manager, Miller Children's & Women's Access & Transport Center. “Our goal is to not only care for the child but to support the entire family every step of the way.”
Expert Care in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Makoa was transported by ambulance to the Cherese Mari Laulhere Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital. Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital is one of the few hospitals in Southern California with a dedicated Level 1 PICU, the highest designation by the American Academy of Pediatrics, and a nationally recognized Children’s Pulmonary Institute. This specialized center brings together pediatric pulmonologists, immunologists, and respiratory therapists to deliver coordinated care for complex respiratory conditions like bronchiolitis and respiratory failure. For children like Makoa, whose condition escalated quickly, this level of expertise and integration can be lifesaving.
Understanding Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis is a viral infection that inflames the small airways (bronchioles) in the lungs, most commonly affecting children under 2 years old. It’s typically caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), but other viruses like rhinovirus, influenza, and COVID-19 can also be culprits. In Makoa’s case, COVID-19 likely triggered bronchiolitis, which progressed to respiratory failure.
Early signs of bronchiolitis can resemble a common cold—runny nose, mild fever, and cough—but can quickly escalate to wheezing, rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, and difficulty feeding. In severe cases, like Makoa’s, it can lead to respiratory distress and require intensive care.
Critical Care with Compassion
From the moment they arrived, the care team at Miller Children’s & Women’s provided not only expert medical attention but also emotional support. The night nurse who greeted them was gentle and attentive, setting the tone for the days ahead. Glenn Levine, M.D., pediatric intensivist, and Kevin O’Brien, M.D., pediatric intensivist, visited the next morning to explain Makoa’s condition and outline the treatment plan, offering clarity and reassurance.
“Bronchiolitis is one of the leading causes of hospitalization in children under the age of two,” says Glenn Levine, M.D., pediatric intensivist, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital. “In Makoa’s case, the infection progressed rapidly, underscoring how even mild symptoms can mask serious respiratory distress. Kristin’s decision to trust her instincts and seek emergency care was lifesaving.”
Compassion Beyond Medical Care
While in the PICU, Kristin experienced a level of care that extended beyond her son. Nurses checked in on her regularly, changed Makoa’s diapers to give her a break and even provided toiletries to help her feel more comfortable.
One nurse in particular stood out, she had been with them for both nights and noticed that Kristin hadn’t left the hospital since Makoa was admitted. On her second shift, she asked if Kristin needed anything. At first, Kristin declined, but after a few more inquiries, she finally asked for a toothbrush and some toiletries. The nurse not only brought them but also made sure Kristin was added to the food tray list moving forward.
“It was amazing to see how much better I felt with clean teeth,” Kristin recalled. “She always checked in with ‘mom,’ and that meant a lot to me.”
A Mother's Perspective
Toys were brought in to brighten Makoa’s room, and his excitement was a welcome sign of his improving condition. Originally, Makoa was placed in a crib, but Kristin knew he’d sleep better beside her. The care team quickly adapted to make sure both of them felt safe and supported. Their compassion and flexibility helped Kristin navigate a difficult time with strength and peace of mind.
“As a mom, every thought is focused on your child, especially when they are sick,” said Kristin. “We tend to forget about ourselves as moms, but I urge other moms who have children in the hospital to be accepting of the help and support that the nurses and doctors offer.”
Back to Health and Happiness
After three days of being hospitalized in the PICU, Makoa was able to be discharged home. He continued with several days of breathing treatments, and Makoa’s condition improved significantly. After 10 days, he completed his final treatment and was able to return to daycare, back to his cheerful and energetic self. He continued to follow-up care with his pediatrician in Torrance, but the impact of the care they received at Miller Children’s & Women’s remains unforgettable.
“When we first arrived, I had never heard of Miller Children’s & Women’s or MemorialCare,” said Kristin. "But from the moment we walked in, I felt so supported. The care team truly put me and my son at the center of everything, and being part of a full-service children’s hospital made all the difference for us.”
Miller Children’s & Women’s is more than a hospital in Long Beach — it’s part of a larger pediatric network built to make life easier for families. Through its Cherese Mari Laulhere Children’s Village and satellite centers in Torrance, Fountain Valley, and Irvine, families can get specialized pediatric care close to home. That means children can see the same trusted, board‑certified specialists they would in Long Beach, without the commute.
The Power of Communication and Collaboration
Miller Children’s & Women’s commitment to communication, collaboration, and coordination stood out most to Kristin. She deeply appreciated being included in the daily stand-up rounds, where doctors and nurses discussed Makoa’s care plan and invited parent input.
“It was valuable to have parents included,” Kristen said. “I felt very in the loop and aware of the care we were receiving.”
That sense of inclusion was matched by the seamless coordination between departments and the genuine warmth of every care team member. From the transport team that ensured Makoa’s safe arrival to the day and night nurses who consistently checked in, every interaction was marked by professionalism and empathy. Miller Children’s & Women’s child-focused approach was evident in every detail—from medical care to the comforting environment created for families.
Looking Ahead
Now that Makoa is back to his usual self, Kristin laughs at the memory of him staying in bed for two days.
“I still can't believe we managed to have him stay put,” she said. “Makoa loves being outdoors and active! He loves going to the park, the beach, and anything to do with playing in water.”
Miller Children’s & Women’s is known for its specialized pediatric care, and Kristin saw firsthand how that expertise made a difference. The team didn’t just treat symptoms—they treated the whole child, and by extension, the whole family. Whether it was providing consistent updates, offering emotional support or simply making sure Kristin had a moment to rest, the care teams demonstrated a deep understanding of what families need during a medical crisis.
Even small gestures, like bringing in toys or offering toiletries, helped transform a stressful experience into one filled with compassion. These moments reminded Kristin that she wasn’t alone, and that Miller Children’s & Women’s was there not just to heal Makoa, but to support her as well.
Kristin's Advice for other Parents
For families facing similar emergencies, Kristin hopes her experience will highlight the importance of trusting your instincts and finding a hospital that treats you like family.
“As parents, your own self-care is still very important,” said Kristen. “We can be so consumed in worry for our children, but it’s okay to ask for and accept help. The care we received at Miller Children’s was outstanding—not only for our child, but for us as parents, too.”
Miller Children’s & Women’s left a lasting impression on Kristin and Makoa, combining advanced pediatric expertise with genuine compassion—a difference that shaped their entire recovery journey. Families across Southern California rely on this specialized, family-centered care every day.