Family reflects on 10th anniversary of Ayers Children’s Medical Center

JACKSON, Tenn. — As the Ayers Children’s Medical Center celebrates 10 years of service, one family reflects on how the center has impacted their life.

For the past 10 years, the Ayers center has served area families in their most difficult of times. Stephanie Pallarino and her daughter, Melody, are among them.

“They have helped me to understand her development, and they’re very knowledgeable and everything,” Pallarino said.

Last August, Melody was born prematurely at only three pounds. Doctors worried about her issues with brain and vision development.

“It was a challenging experience, especially since I had to go home afterwards, but I knew she was in good hands,” Stephanie said.

Executive Director Deena Kail said their services continue to expand.

“We had one or two of the pediatric sub-specialists coming to Jackson, and now we have anywhere from two to five providers every day,” Kail said.

Officials said around 45,000 children have been served due to the Ayers center, and a lot of families find it convenient so they won’t have to travel to Nashville or Memphis for services.

“Make me feel a lot more comfortable knowing that I was that close to her even though she was here and I was at home,” Pallarino said.

Jim and Janet Ayers’ initial $5 million donation back in 2006 helped start the facility, and Stephanie is eternally grateful.

“She keeps moving forward, so we’re all very proud of her.”

To continue the celebration and spread awareness about the center, Kail said there’s a contest on the Ayers Children’s Medical Center Facebook page. Staff has a chance to share pictures from over the years, and those who participate will win prizes.