Miracle Baby Thrives Thanks to Compassionate Care in Reedley

When Blanca Gonzalez welcomed her daughter, Maripaz Mejia, into the world in early 2024, she knew their journey would be extraordinary. During pregnancy, doctors had warned that Maripaz faced significant medical challenges and might not survive long after birth. Guided by her faith and determination, Gonzalez held onto hope and prepared to give her daughter every chance at life with help from an Adventist Health pediatrician.

Maripaz was born with holoprosencephaly, a condition that develops early in pregnancy when the brain does not fully separate into two hemispheres. The diagnosis can be associated with complex neurological and facial challenges, and initial expectations for survival were uncertain.

Refusing to give up, Gonzalez searched for specialized care and was connected to Nadeem Mousa, MD, a Valley Children’s pediatrician who cares for young patients at Adventist Health Medical Office – Reedley Children’s.

“When Blanca reached out, she was understandably overwhelmed and looking for answers,” said Dr. Mousa. “Our priority was to support her emotionally and medically, and to connect her with every available resource to help Maripaz thrive.”

Dr. Mousa coordinated care and referrals, including a consultation with a pediatric neurologist. Maripaz successfully underwent surgery, exceeding early expectations. Today, she is growing, smiling, and celebrated her second birthday this January.

“Dr. Mousa has been an incredible blessing in my daughter’s life,” said Gonzalez. “Her face lights up every time she sees him.”

Maripaz continues to receive ongoing care for vision, speech, and developmental delays. Dr. Mousa remains closely involved in her healthcare journey, working with her family to ensure she receives the best possible support.

“Our goal is to treat each child with compassion and expertise, helping them live as comfortably and fully as possible,” Dr. Mousa said. “We rely on medical knowledge and science to bring hope and healing, while recognizing that faith plays an important role for many families.”

Since joining Adventist Health in 2023, Dr. Mousa — medical director at Reedley Children’s— has helped strengthen trust and access to pediatric care in the community. Alongside a dedicated team of three pediatricians, a nurse practitioner, a medical student, and a physician resident, he is ensuring families can receive high-quality care close to home.

The Reedley Children’s team provides comprehensive pediatric services, addressing not only physical health needs but also developmental, emotional, and behavioral concerns. From preventive care and immunizations to routine screenings and management of chronic conditions such as ADHD, obesity, and eczema, the team is committed to supporting children at every stage of growth.

For parents like Gonzalez, that commitment has made all the difference.

“I’m forever grateful,” she said. “Because of this care, my daughter is here — and she’s growing stronger every day.”