A Gastric Pacemaker Changes One Teen’s Life
The Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & ½ Marathon is about much more than running or walking an incredible distance. It’s about 24 Miracle Mile Patient Champions who have shared their stories to inspire you. One Angel Mile to honor, remember, and celebrate those who have already finished their race. And one Encore Mile, for the patients who lined the inaugural Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & ½ Marathon in 2012. Morgan Hood, from Abilene, Texas, will represent mile 10.
Morgan was an active Texas teenager when suddenly, during her junior year of high school, she became unable to keep food down due to severe nausea and vomiting. Morgan’s case puzzled her pediatrician, who sent it to the Mayo Clinic for help. Morgan was ultimately referred to our pediatric gastrointestinal experts. There, the family learned that Morgan suffered from functional dyspepsia and could be helped by a unique treatment – a gastric pacemaker.
Through her illnesses, surgeries, and long trips from Texas to Ohio, Morgan remained in the top 15% of her graduating class. She is running again. Morgan has persevered through many struggles, and has no doubt that she will one day be able to run the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon, not just cheer from the sidelines. When you run or walk through Mile 10, do it for Morgan!
