While he admits it can be challenging and time-consuming to be both a surgeon and an active researcher, Dr. Peiro focuses on the excitement of innovation and discovery.
“In the laboratory, we design projects that can give us answers and solutions to quickly use in the regular day-to-day treatments for patients with some malformations,” he said.
The ultimate goal of the research, explains Dr. Peiro, is to help families and babies like Vivienne by improving how they deal with their anomalies.
Recalling the day Vivienne was able to leave the newborn intensive care unit (NICU) and go home two weeks after she was born, Dr. Peiro points to her continued progress as an example.
“That was also my birthday, when she was discharged home. So, a great present for me that day. Hopefully, she can continue to develop with minimal handicaps and have a good quality of life.”
Cincinnati Children’s Exceeds Family’s Expectations
As her birthday approaches this summer, Vivienne continues to do well. After being a patient in the Spina Bifida Clinic for two years, Vivienne is now seen by Dr. Stevenson in neurosurgery and Brian VanderBrink, MD, in urology.
“We recognize that she will always have some physical limitations, but we could not be prouder or more thankful that her cognition is 100 percent,” said Paula, describing Vivienne’s progress in both body and mind.
“For being only 3 years old, she is very articulate. She’s very smart and so chatty. Our goal is to help her have an independent life. And I think that she will have that.”
Currently, Vivienne loves painting, Legos and books. She’s not reading yet, but she’s recognizing her letters, and she’s very active and enjoys playing outside and in her treehouse.
“We’re so thankful. We know we are in the right hands. Cincinnati Children’s will always be a part of our life,” said Paula. “I would go to the ends of the earth for her, and that led us to Cincinnati. It’s a special place for us.”
(Published May 2022)