When 18-month-old Jeremiah drank Drain-O while his mom was cooking for Thanksgiving, his life changed in an instant. He was immediately airlifted to Wellstar Golisano Children’s Hospital of Georgia where a team of specialists was ready to act without hesitation.  

In moments like these, every second matters. Chances of surviving a traumatic injury improve significantly when treatment begins within the “golden hour”—the critical window immediately following a serious injury where rapid medical care can save lives. For children, that time is cut in half, making access to expert, specialized care close to home not just important, but essential. 

Because Jeremiah was able to receive that care quickly, he is now a high school student planning his future and pursuing his dreams. 

Jeremiah’s journey is one of many that reflect the life-changing impact of Wellstar Golisano Children’s Hospital. Every day, dedicated teams provide highly specialized care designed specifically for children that not only treats injuries and illnesses but supports families through some of their most difficult moments. 

Behind that care is a steadfast commitment to clinical care, advanced technology and highly trained specialists who focus solely on pediatric needs. It’s what allows teams to act quickly, deliver the right care at the right time and help children like Jeremiah thrive. 

Philanthropy plays a critical role in making this possible. 

“Philanthropy is vital. We need it to purchase the equipment and support the programs for taking care of a lot of children with a lot of complex medical issues,” said Dr. Walt Pipkin, chief of pediatric surgery. 

Donor generosity helps ensure care teams have access to the latest equipment, specialized programs and innovative treatments that drive better outcomes for children facing complex conditions. It fuels advancements in care, supports training for future providers and allows hospitals to respond quickly to the evolving needs of patients and families.  

“Many of the innovations, many of the advancements that we’ve been able to make over the last several years depend on philanthropic support for us to be able to achieve that,” said Dr. Valera Hudson, pediatrician-in-chief. 

At Wellstar Golisano Children’s Hospital of Georgia, those advancements translate into something powerful: more stories like Jeremiah’s. More moments where expert care meets urgent need. More children who can go on to live full, healthy lives. 

Because of philanthropy—and the community that stands behind it—life-saving care isn’t far away when it matters most.