Newsletter

May 2024

We put our heart in everything we do.

Giggles the giraffe

Celebrating Our Nurses: The Heartbeat of VIVA Pediatrics​

As we welcome the month of May, VIVA Pediatrics is proud to observe an exceptionally important event—Nurses Month. During this time, we take a moment to acknowledge and honor the outstanding individuals who form the core of our healthcare services: our nurses. In the specialized field of pediatric home health, our nurses face daily challenges with extraordinary dedication and compassion. These professionals extend their roles beyond coanventional nursing duties, acting not only as caregivers but also as crucial supporters for the families and children who rely on our care.

Our nurses are the fundamental support structure of VIVA Pediatrics. They exhibit a steadfast commitment, providing expert, personalized care that meets the distinct needs of each child we serve. Their deep empathy and understanding significantly uplift the families dealing with the intricacies of raising children with special health needs. As educators, they equip parents with the knowledge to manage their children’s care in demanding situations. As advocates, they are always prepared to stand up for the needs of their patients.

This month, we pause to convey our profound appreciation for every nurse within our organization. Your relentless effort and dedication do not go unnoticed. You bring solace during the toughest times and share in the joy of each achievement. Your devotion persists beyond working hours, reflecting a true passion for the health and happiness of our patients and their families.

To the families who have welcomed us into their lives, your confidence in our team forms the cornerstone of all we achieve. Your feedback, stories of endurance, and expressions of thanks motivate us to pursue excellence in every facet of our care. To our nurses, your adeptness in turning challenges into opportunities for healing and growth not only alters lives but enhances the well-being of everyone involved.

As we commemorate Nurses Month, let us all recognize and appreciate the profound impact our nurses have on so many lives. At VIVA Pediatrics, we are more than a team; we are a community united by our common purpose to provide the highest quality care to those most in need. We are immensely grateful to our nurses, who are at the heart of our mission and demonstrate an unyielding dedication to making our world a better place.

Happy Nurses Month! We celebrate your hard work, compassion, and professionalism, acknowledging how deeply you are valued. Today, and every day, we honor and celebrate you.

News & Events

Asian American Heritage Festival - Garland​

Free for all ages. Join on Saturday, May 18 from 2 to 10 p.m. to celebrate the talent, creativity, and cultural diversity of Asian Pacific American communities. Winters Park Amphitheater, 1419 Spring Creek Drive, Garland, TX 75040. For more information visit www.visitgarlandtx.com/asian-american-heritage-festival

Dallas Memorial March - Dallas​

Free for all ages. March with your families and friends to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. This is a two-day event to celebrate our heroes, embrace the fallen, and educate communities on how to respectfully observe Memorial Day. Reverchon Park, 3505 Maple Ave, Dallas, TX 75219. For more information visit www.carrythe-load.org/dallas-memorial-march/

3rd Annual Children’s Business Fair - Cedar Park​

Free for all ages. Children’s Business Fair at Lakeline Mall on 5/18 from 10am-1pm. The event hosts local youth ages 5-18 who are pursuing a journey in entrepreneurship. They are given an opportunity to pursue their business dreams, equipping them to learn real-life lessons along the way. Lakeline Mall Farmer’s Market, 11200 Lakeline Mall Dr., Cedar Park, TX 78613. For more information visit www.childrensbusinessfair.org/austin-northwestaustin

For current events visit us on Facebook

Illustration of case with red cross on it with Giggles and little toucan

Spring into Safety with Giggles Allergies and Asthma Awareness​

May brings blooming flowers and warm sun, but also allergy and asthma challenges for many children. As spring unfolds, it’s essential to manage these conditions so our little ones can enjoy the season safely. Here are key tips for a healthy spring:

Identify Triggers:

Learn what sparks your child’s allergies or asthma—common triggers include pollen, dust, and mold. Keep an eye on pollen forecasts and schedule outdoor play when levels are low.

Allergen-Free Zone:

Keep your home clean from allergens by regularly washing floors and surfaces. An air purifier can help maintain clean indoor air, capturing irritating particles.

Medication Management:

Ensure allergy or asthma medications are easily accessible and up-to-date. Educate your child on their use, and for older kids, teach them to recognize when they need help.

Smart Outdoor Play:

Plan outdoor activities during times when pollen counts are lower. After outdoor fun, change clothes and shower to remove any clinging allergens.

By taking these precautions, you can help your child enjoy a fun and flare-up-free spring season. Let’s keep our children happy, healthy, and ready to confidently explore nature’s beauty!

Resources

VIVA Pediatrics Resources​​​

In an effort to help our families, we constantly strive to provide them with relevant and helpful resources and information. Visit our resources page online at: www.vivapeds.com/resources

For current events visit us on Facebook.

www.facebook.com/VIVAPeds

The Parker Lee Project​​​

The Parker Lee Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping families of children with medical needs obtain the necessary supplies & equipment, education, and support they need. While most supplies are covered by insurance, some are not, or not enough supplies are provided. If you have a need for medical supplies or have supplies to donate, please visit their website at www.theparkerleeproject.org

Texas Star Kids​​​

The Texas’ Star Kids mandate threatens the lives of our weakest and most vulnerable little citizens. Join us in standing up for those who have no voice. Click this link to sign up: www.facebook.com/ProtectTXFragileKids

For more info visit:

www.protecttxfragilekids.org

Thrive Magazine​​

Need Resources for your child with special needs? Thrive Magazine shares resources and stories of other families in the DFW area who are living and thriving with special needs. www.dfwchild.com/thrive/directory

Recognize a VIVA Star​​

Viva Pediatrics has an Employee Rewards and Recognition Program to thank and recognize employees that go “above and beyond”. Both employees and patient families are welcome to recognize a VIVA employee! Call one of our offices and let us know if a VIVA employee has gone above and beyond!

Food for Thought

Stack of pancakes with fresh banana slices on top

Banana Pancakes ​

Ingredients​

2 medium-to-large ripe bananas

4 large eggs

½ cup whole wheat flour

Optional: cinnamon, chocolate chips

Butter for cooking

Instructions​

1. In a mixing bowl, mash the banana with a large fork until it’s shiny and mostly smooth. Add the eggs and whisk until the eggs are evenly incorporated into the banana.

2. Add the flour and any optional boosters. Gently stir until combined.

3. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. You’re ready to start cooking pancakes once a drop of water sizzles on contact with the hot surface. If necessary, lightly oil the cooking surface with a pat of butter or oil, carefully wiping up excess with a paper towel.

4. Scoop batter onto the hot skillet and cook until small bubbles form on the surface of the pancakes, 2 to 3 minutes.

5. Flip the pancakes, then cook until lightly golden on both sides, 1 to 2 minutes more.

6. Serve immediately.

Enjoy!

View Original Recipe

Just for Giggles!

What do you call a bear with no teeth?

4 cartoon gummy bears

A Gummy Bear!

Giggles the giraffe