Dottine Perrine Web

Toddler’s Miracle Transformation: Pediatrician’s Care Leads to Remarkable Recovery

Toddler Dottie Perrine’s transformation under the care of Pediatrician Wendi Johnson, M.D., FAAP, has been nothing short of miraculous. Born with a challenging chromosome disorder and facing feeding issues since day one, Dottie’s journey took a turn for the better under the care of Dr. Johnson.

Before meeting Dr. Johnson, Dottie’s family struggled with their infant’s declining health under the care of another provider. Her percentile plummeted from the 47th growth percentile at birth to a concerning 0.5th percentile by four months. Frustrated and worried, her mother, Savannah, decided to switch providers after this, and that’s when she found Dr. Johnson. From the beginning, Dr. Johnson demonstrated not only medical expertise but compassion. Despite being unfamiliar with Dottie’s disorder, she took the time to research and connect her parents with specialists in the Twin Cities who played a pivotal role in her treatment.

Dr. Johnson’s unwavering support continued through surgeries and MRIs, seamlessly collaborating with the specialists involved in Dottie’s care.

“I’ve been so impressed with Dr. Johnson’s dedication that I selfishly hesitate to refer her to others. I’m afraid her schedule may become too full,” Savannah said.

Since Dottie became a patient of Dr. Johnson, her health and quality of life have seen a remarkable upturn. The once fragile baby has transformed into a toddler with chunky thighs, no longer dependent on a feeding tube. Dottie now enjoys a variety of foods, from pineapple and other fruits to yogurt, cheese sticks, and her newfound love for Dim Sum.

Despite development delays, Dottie’s daily improvement is remarkable. She’s found her voice and become more vocal, and, like any toddler, she’s actively exploring her world. The family’s mini–Australian Shepherd puppy, Penn, has become her closest companion, a testament to the toddler’s newfound energy and curiosity.

“I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Johnson to any mother seeking compassionate, dedicated pediatric care,” said Savannah. “Dr. Johnson listens attentively to concerns and has access to a network of specialists, providing comprehensive support for her patients. The exceptional care extends to her equally amazing nurse. Parenting can be challenging and having someone like Dr. Johnson on your side is not just helpful, it’s truly invaluable.”

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Back To School

Top Tips from a Physician for a Smooth Back-to-School Transition

Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician Hannah Elsenpeter, MD, has some advice for parents to help ease the transition from a carefree summer of fun into a routine that will have their kids ready to hit the books instead of snooze on their alarm.

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