Kathy Merritt

"The toll of a loved one's death, divorce and chronic illness can so complicate the lives of a child and his/her family that each day's burdens feel unbearable for all involved. Aches & pains, aggression and shyness may be so exaggerated that typical daily living feels almost impossible. As a pediatrician I see young children and talk to parents regularly. I often spend time explaining my view of the contributors to illness.  It is not "just" a virus, a bacteria, or an accident.  One's emotional state also plays an important role in defining illness.  Ignoring this contributor can leave young children inadequately treated. When everyday tummyaches, headaches, aggression, fears of sleep and separation become too exaggerated for a family to move forward, having the Lucy Daniels Center as a resource can feel like a life line on a sinking ship."

-Kathy Merritt, pediatrician, Chapel Hill, NC