“I grew up in Snell Isle across the corner,” says Dr. Stacey Stone. She has lived in the neighborhood since she was 12, leaving for 14 years to attend school, before moving back to Snell Isle in 2010. “I’ve lived here ever since,” she smiles. 

Finding Her Calling

Stacey, a neonatologist at John Hopkins All Children's Hospital, decided she wanted to go into medicine when she was in seventh grade. Her uncle, involved in public relations for John Hopkins All Children's Hospital, introduced her to the world of medicine. A tour of the hospital, complete with lunch with her uncle, led Stacey to the neonatal unit. It was there that her passion for taking care of infants was ignited. 

“I always loved babies,” she says. It was at that moment she knew what she wanted to do for the rest of her life – become a neonatologist. 

Stacey's journey from volunteering to medical school, residency, and fellowship brought her full circle to her true calling in neonatology. “I loved neonatology more than I thought I would,” she comments. 

A Passion for Saving Lives

Stacey's work as a neonatologist is nothing short of inspiring. She specializes in treating congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), a rare and life-threatening condition where a baby is born with abdominal organs in the chest cavity, affecting lung development. Stacey's dedication and expertise, along with the collaborative efforts of her team, have drastically improved survival rates for CDH patients. While the general survival rate hovers around 50 to 70 percent, their unit has achieved a remarkable survival of over 94 percent. Patients come from around the world for treatment at John Hopkins because of their incredible survival rate!

The key to their success lies in the meticulous care they provide to the fragile lungs of these newborns, combined with surgical interventions and intensive ventilation. Most of their patients not only survive but go on to live healthy, normal lives. Stacey's eyes light up when she talks about her work, which she is very passionate about. Saving lives is what Stacey does best.

A Team of Heroes

Dr. Stacey Stone is quick to acknowledge that her accomplishments are not solely her own. The CDH program at their hospital was founded by Dr. David Kays, and they are fortunate to have another outstanding surgeon, Dr. Jason Smithers, who Stacey and her team recruited from Boston. 

“We take care of 50-60 patients a year,” says Stacey. Patients might stay from 3-12 weeks, depending upon their situation. “Most patients go home in great condition,” she adds. Seeing patients improve and go on to live normal lives as happy, healthy kids is what it’s all about for her.

Family First

Stacey's devotion to her profession is matched only by her love for her three children: Braden, Austin, and Lexie. Braden, the oldest, is about to embark on his journey to becoming a licensed driver at the age of 16. He's actively involved in sports, particularly baseball, and participates in numerous clubs and activities at Shorecrest. Austin, 14, attends Shorecrest and loves baseball and basketball. Lexie, 12, is a gymnast when she isn’t hitting the books at Shorecrest. 

Family Fun 

As a family, everyone enjoys planning board games and hanging out. Recently, this family of four went to Michigan for a week to visit Stacey’s sister. However, their favorite vacations are taking cruises. Each summer, they go on an extended family cruise or take a trip to see the mountains in Georgia or North Carolina. 

A typical weekend involves the kids’ activities with clubs and sports. Taking a leisurely bike ride downtown is also fun for everyone.

We are honored to feature the Stone family in this month’s issue. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with your neighbors! Be sure to say hello to them when you see them out and about. They would love to meet more friendly folks here in Snell Isle (and that means you!).