Helping families facing Hirschsprung's Disease

In 2020, Kelly Mezzetta gave birth to her daughter at Queensway Carleton Hospital. To the family’s surprise, baby V was diagnosed with Hirschsprung's disease—a rare genetic condition that affects the intestines.

Photo of V.

V’s journey to “recovery” was complex. By the age of two, she had endured multiple biopsies, surgeries, an ostomy bag, specialized baby formulas, feeding tubes, and an array of other feats no toddler should face.

Although the Mezzetta family eventually found specialists and treatment for their daughter, it was difficult to gather resources to help them understand and navigate the intricacies of the illness, especially during the height of the pandemic. They leaned on the support of V’s Zia, uncle, grandma Cookie, cousins Milo and Luca, roommate Natalie, and big brother Enzo, who helped them every step of the way.

Photo of the Mezzetta family and members of the QCH Childbirth team with the donated resource kits.

To make things easier for the next families who receive this rare diagnosis, the Mezzetta's raised funds to create a Hirschsprung's disease resource kit. The kits include helpful information about surgery, nutrition, and supplies; items and best practices for ostomy changes; teaching tools like the preemie and newborn Ostomy Shadow Buddy dolls; children’s books, colouring sheets, and more.

We thank the Mezzetta family for sharing their story and raising funds to help the next family in their journey to recovery.