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Built for Kids™

Built for Kids™

“Did we just become best friends??”

Both Alex and Jaymeson (Jay) were born with rare congenital heart differences and met at Children’s Mercy Kansas City while waiting for heart transplants. Their families supported each other during their hospital stays and appointments. The boys’ moms dubbed them “the stepbrothers,” because they shared a sense of humor and a love for the movie of the same name.

In a very Hollywood plot twist, Alex and Jay’s new hearts both arrived the same week in February 2024. Read more about their unique friendship and how they bonded over their shared experience at Children’s Mercy.

An architectural rendering of the future Children's Mercy Hospital Kansas buildings.

Let’s grow! Children’s Mercy Hospital Kansas starts expansion in 2025

As kids’ health needs grow, so do our services to help. We’ve listened to families who asked for improved access to our expert care. The expansion will also consolidate services and introduce new clinical programs. The first phase of the project is already underway, with additional phases to come over the next four years.

Learn more about the expansion
Mother and daughter smiling together in matching yellow shirts.

Share a Cup of Comfort

A hospital room can feel far from home, but your gift can provide comfort to a parent or caregiver, reminding them they are not alone. Your support makes a big impact through small gestures. 

Share Joy
Dr. Craig Smail stands in his lab with his arms crossed and he's smiling at the camera. He wears a white lab coat.

Understanding rare human genetic variation and disease risk

“I find it very motivating to have the opportunity to discover new knowledge in medicine because it has the potential to impact patients and improve lives.” Meet Dr. Craig Smail and learn about his work in genetic research.

Meet the emerging principal investigator