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D Magazine: Faces of Pediatric Orthopedic Care

D Magazine: Faces of Pediatric Orthopedic Care

by | May 14, 2025 | Press Coverage

For parents of children and teens experiencing an orthopedic condition, such as a fracture, scoliosis or sports injury, specialized pediatric care is paramount. Children with growing bodies are not miniature adults, and their pliable bones and open growth plates demand expert attention to prevent long-term complications.

“Pediatrics is not simply a scaled-down version of adult care,” emphasizes Scottish Rite for Children chief of staff, Daniel J. Sucato, M.D., M.S. “The unique growth patterns and developmental stages in children necessitate a nuanced understanding of their musculoskeletal system. Improper treatment can impede growth, lead to deformities or result in chronic pain.”

For more than 100 years, Scottish Rite has been a global leader in pediatric orthopedics. Its team medicine approach provides unparalleled expertise for diagnoses ranging from spine conditions and hip dysplasia to complex deformities at birth, fractures and sport-related injuries. Scottish Rite provides tailor-made treatment plans and advanced support services, such as physical therapy, psychology, and orthotics, to name a few, at the Dallas and Frisco campuses.

Scottish Rite’s outstanding care combined with groundbreaking research—including more than 190 patents and gene discoveries related to orthopedic conditions—solidifies its position as a world-renowned institution. This group of more than 20 physicians cultivates genuine, long-term relationships with patients and families, many who travel to Dallas and Frisco from across the country and around the world for their expertise and dedication. Their exceptional ability to improve children’s orthopedic health is reflected in patient satisfaction and positive outcomes.

From routine to complex pediatric orthopedic care, families can trust Scottish Rite for Children to deliver one-of-a-kind care to help your child achieve optimal musculoskeletal health and well-being. The staff has spent a lifetime performing, researching, and pioneering pediatric orthopedic care. They use groundbreaking technology and innovative methods to provide excellent care for every child from start to finish.

As published in D Magazine.

WFAA: How Kaliyah Navigates Life Confidently With Lupus

WFAA: How Kaliyah Navigates Life Confidently With Lupus

by | May 12, 2025 | Press Coverage, Rheumatology

Often described as the life of the party, 11-year-old Kaliyah does not let her condition slow her down. At age 4, Kaliyah was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation, swelling and pain. Kaliyah’s mother has the same condition and understands how important it is for Kaliyah to get quality care. This led Kaliyah and her family to Scottish Rite for Children’s Rheumatology clinic where she receives treatment led by pediatric rheumatologist Lorien A. Nassi, M.D.

Throughout her care journey, Kaliyah’s positive spirit has continuously inspired her care team and her mother. Now, Kaliyah is determined to keep fighting through her condition by competing in sports, such as cheerleading, dance and soccer.

Watch her segment on WFAA. 

DFWChild: Decoding Dyslexia and Depression

DFWChild: Decoding Dyslexia and Depression

by | May 9, 2025 | Dyslexia & Learning Disorders, Press Coverage

Scottish Rite for Children’s Luke Waites Center for Dyslexia and Learning Disorders was established to help identify and treat children with various learning disorders, such as dyslexia. Dyslexia is a learning difference which causes children to have difficulties with reading and spelling. In order to care for the whole child, it’s important to identify other factors, like depression, that may arise when receiving care for leanring differences. 

Read more in DFWChild. 

Get to Know Our Staff: Michelle Kimbrough, Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine

Get to Know Our Staff: Michelle Kimbrough, Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine

by | May 7, 2025 | Neurology, Spotlight

What is your job title at Scottish Rite?
I am a registered nurse for the Neurology and Rehabilitation department. I assist the providers in caring for our patients. I assess patients’ needs and coordinate with other departments within Scottish Rite, such as Orthotics and Prosthetics, Child Life, Family Services, among others. I also work with the families to explain our discharge instructions.

What is the most fulfilling part of your job?
The most fulfilling part of my job is seeing our patients be happy and live life to the fullest, regardless of if they have physical limitations. They always have such positive attitudes, and their spirits really uplift me. I’m so grateful to be part of their journey!

What makes Scottish Rite a special place to you?
I love the teamwork here, and I work with such a great group of nurses. I love how all of the departments at Scottish Rite unite to provide optimal care for our patients. Our patient population is also very unique. Despite their conditions, they still remain positive.

What made you choose a career in health care?
I have always had a heart to help others.

What is something unique you get to do in your position?
One of the unique things I do is go into surgery with Dr. Reyes twice a month. I help with the botoluinum toxin injection procedures.

What’s your favorite thing to do outside of work?
I love spending time with my family and friends.

Do you have any hidden talents?
I like to sing. I also play a little piano (emphasis on little).

Where are you from, and what brought you to DFW?
I’m originally from Palestine, Texas. When I began working in the NICU at another institution, I came to DFW in 2008.

If you could travel to anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
I would go to Paris, because it seems to be a beautiful and romantic place to visit with the different attractions and historical landmarks. I hear the food is amazing too!

If you had to pick one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I love a good, juicy steak and buttery dinner rolls. I also love any type of chocolate dessert, brownies, warm chocolate chip cookies and ice cream.

What movie do you think everyone should watch at least once?
“Imitation of Life”

What was the first concert you attended?
I saw Luther Vandross and En Vogue.

Favorite DFW hidden gem?
Brunch Room Bistro in Forney, Texas. The food is great, and the atmosphere is a vibe!

If you were to have a movie based on your life, which actress/actor would you choose to play your character?
I would choose Sanaa Lathan or Taraji P. Henson.

What is some advice you would give your younger self, OR what’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
I would tell my younger self to listen to your parents because they know what they are talking about!

KXXV (ABC): Cooper’s Triumph Over His Conditions

KXXV (ABC): Cooper’s Triumph Over His Conditions

by | May 6, 2025 | Clubfoot & Foot Disorders, Hand Conditions, Press Coverage

“Seeing him run around happy and never think anything was ever wrong … it’s heartwarming knowing that he’s going to be okay,” says Cooper’s father, BJ, describing the progress Cooper has made navigating his conditions. 

Cooper and his family traveled from College Station to Dallas to receive multidisciplinary care at Scottish Rite for Children. Cooper’s father, BJ, is no stranger to Scottish Rite. He received treatment at Scottish Rite for arthrogryposis as a child. Director of the Center for Excellence in Hand Scott Oishi, M.D., FACS, confirmed that Cooper has arthrogryposis, just like his dad. Director of the Center for Excellence in Foot Anthony I. Riccio, M.D., diagnosed Cooper with congenital vertical talus, a rare and complex foot condition that causes the sole of the foot to flex in a convex position, forming a rocker-bottom appearance.

Now, Cooper is a bundle of energy who runs and plays, thanks to the care he receives at Scottish Rite. 

Watch Cooper’s segment here.