The biggest breakthroughs in pediatric medicine don’t just happen. They are the result of brilliant and innovative ideas followed by years-long, careful research by teams of doctors, scientists and research staff, whose work and training is supported by hospitals and universities. These new treatments and cures are only possible through the generous participation of children and their families who enroll in research studies and clinical trials, and by the countless  days, nights and weekends that investigators spend bringing groundbreaking new treatments to light.

To see this journey play out, look no further than this issue’s article on pediatric sickle cell disease. You’ll read how our young patients benefit tremendously from discoveries made by Johns Hopkins hematologists, building on work going back decades. There are now even curative options for this devastating blood disorder, thanks to the relentless work of clinician-scientists here and across the country — and to the funding that made their research possible.

For another example of the biomedical “long game” in action, read our cover story about Dr. Peter Rowe, whose careerlong research pursuit has led to the recognition that chronic fatigue syndrome is not a solo illness, but instead intersects with a host of other debilitating conditions. By literally writing the book on this complex constellation of health issues — such as blood pressure instability, joint flexibility, brain fog and other symptoms that dramatically reduce quality of life — and through the clinic he has built here at the Children’s Center, Dr. Rowe and his team are giving previously sidelined young people their lives back.

As pediatricians, we know how critical it is to address health issues early in life since the chronic conditions of adulthood — from diabetes to heart disease — often start during childhood. We are very proud of the work our clinicians and staff are doing, day in and day out, to advocate for children and their families in so many different realms: from addressing childhood obesity, to tackling food and housing insecurity, to ensuring access to lifesaving vaccines. Some, like pediatric pulmonologist Christy Sadreameli, are even taking their advocacy to the State House. Her words so aptly capture our collective mission as pediatricians to be a voice for children: “If we don’t fight for them, who will?” Thank you for fighting alongside us — for our patients, our families and our futures.

Brenda Banwell, M.D.
Co-Director and Pediatrician-in-Chief, Johns Hopkins Children’s Center

David Hackam, M.D., Ph.D.
Co-Director and Surgeon-in-Chief, Johns Hopkins Children’s Center