Natalie Finds Her Voice Again 

Natalie, Cottage Children's Medical Center
patient

Natalie is eight years old and full of sparkle. She loves unicorns, Hello Kitty, and the color pink. She plays golf and softball, and she is always singing.

But when Natalie was four, her joyful voice fell silent. She was taken to the hospital with pneumonia and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Her oxygen levels dropped dangerously low, and her left lung collapsed.

Thanks to generous donor support, Cottage was ready.

Our donor-supported pediatric ambulance brought her safely to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, providing comfort and critical care along the way. She was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, where she was cared for by our team of experts who specialize in children’s emergencies.   

Natalie received the lifesaving, compassionate care she needed—just in time and close to home.   

Donor support also made it possible for her parents to stay nearby in our Cottage Family Suites. And Natalie received emotional support from our Child Life Specialist, who used bubbles, toys, and gentle words to help her feel safe and brave.

After just four days, Natalie was breathing on her own—strong enough to sing again.

When a child's life is at stake, every moment matters. Your gift today can help more children like Natalie move from crisis to comfort.

Cottage Children’s Medical Center is the only comprehensive pediatric medical center on the Central Coast. We care for thousands of children every year—from our smallest and most vulnerable patients in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to those needing acute care in the Pediatric Ward or Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. 

Support Our Community's Children