The Difference Compassion Makes in UH Rainbow Patients

Jenny Richfield moved through several foster home placements and, like too many children in her situation, had been inappropriately medicated for behavioral issues. Jenny was referred to UH Rainbow when her behavior was deemed ‘uncontrollable.’

A comprehensive team of developmental and behavioral health specialists sourced the causes of her behavior: traumas, including violence and loss, undiagnosed developmental delays and a learning disorder. Eight-year-old Jenny was functioning at the level of a child half her age due to these challenges.

UH caregivers helped Jenny cope and process her traumas, right-sized her medications and course-corrected developmental delays.

UH Rainbow pediatrician Charron Lewis, MD, emphasized that kids like Jenny aren’t bad; they need compassion and support. “When a care team takes a step back to look at the big picture of these kids’ lives, we can serve them better.”