Mission Impact

You are helping to heal children beyond their diagnoses

At Children’s Mercy, your generosity fuels care that goes beyond just clinical, research and academic excellence. We are built for kids in every way — from the pictures on our walls to the wraparound care that families receive. Your support ensures that every child who comes through our doors has access to the care and comfort they deserve, regardless of their ability to pay.

More than skin deep

We’re focused on the whole patient and that includes supporting the psychological and emotional impact of their condition. Living with a visible skin condition can be a struggle for many children. The family and child may get lots of questions, and our clinic helps equip them with the tools to navigate those moments.

Behind every patient is a story that speaks louder than any diagnosis. Kids visiting the Dermatology Clinic often seek treatment for complex hair, skin and nail conditions. But more importantly, they are courageous kids with a community that celebrates them. That network of support includes Dermatology team members who help each child feel seen and proud of who they are, regardless of their condition.

Amy Nopper, MD, Division Director of Dermatology, explained there is no simple fix for many of the conditions they treat, which makes patient advocacy a top priority for their team.

Faces that inspire

Many congenital skin conditions like vascular malformations are permanent lesions that can be minimized with treatment, but there is no cure. The emotional toll can be heavy when the treatment isn’t successful. Dr. Nopper worked with Stephanie Kronberg, CPNP, Dermatology Nurse Practitioner to advocate for images that highlight the child behind these diagnoses. Patients who represent visible skin conditions were photographed doing activities they enjoy and are now featured in marketing materials at Children’s Mercy.

“We wanted to show our patients that their skin condition does not define them. It’s part of their story and is not something they need to hide,” said Stephanie. “We believe that by sharing our patients’ stories, we will educate others, promote awareness and help remove the stigma of visible skin conditions.”

Your generosity makes it possible for kids to reach milestones

Your partnership in our mission to build a world of well-being for all children gives patients opportunities they would not have had without Children’s Mercy and your generosity supports clinicians in their daily work of providing expert, compassionate care.

You make the future brighter for patients like Hannah

Ten years ago, Hannah became the first heart transplant patient at Children's Mercy. Today, she’s a healthy, thriving music teacher and newlywed. Her journey reflects the life-changing impact of the Ward Family Heart Center’s transplant program and the extraordinary care that makes long, fulfilling lives possible.

Made possible by you and gifts to the I Love Children’s Mercy Fund

In fiscal year 2025, your contributions ensured every child had access to more leading specialties, more lifesaving innovations and the most compassionate, comprehensive care.

• A staff wellness and respite room on 4 Henson — offering sanctuary and a place to decompress and recharge for healthcare staff. These dedicated spaces help teams address the unique demands of their work and result in better care for patients.
  
  
• Collaboration with the Center for Disability Inclusion — adopting proven strategies and practices that foster an inclusive environment, ensuring a supportive and welcoming atmosphere for all of our patients, families and team members.
  
  
• NuRoo Wraps for the NICU — helping parents hold their child while practicing kangaroo care — skin-to-skin care — proven to have huge benefits, especially for premature patients.

*Statistics as of fiscal year 2025.