patient story

patient name: Jackson Dobson

age: 18

seen in: pediatric surgery, inpatient unit

providers: Arturo Aranda, MD

On a September morning in 2023, Jackson Dobson woke up with what felt like a mild abdominal cramp. The pain escalated quickly, and he began to have difficulty breathing while lying down. Standing up only worsened his condition, causing him to panic. Within minutes, Jackson’s parents, David and Amy, recognized the urgency and called 911. 

Jackson was first taken to an adult hospital, where an X-ray revealed a collapsed lung. A chest tube was placed, and he was quickly transported to Dayton Children’s Hospital. Once at Dayton Children’s, Dr. Arturo Aranda, chief of pediatric surgery, and the rest of Jackson’s care team closely monitored his condition. 

Jackson experienced a spontaneous pneumothorax – a sudden and rare lung collapse – that resolved with initial treatment. However, another pneumothorax was detected and surgery to remove air pockets, known as blebs, became necessary. 

from complication to discovery 

The initial surgery brought unexpected challenges. Jackson experienced severe discomfort, pain and difficulty breathing afterward. Reflecting on that time, Jackson described it as a mental battle, saying, “I kept telling myself, ‘I got this, I hope I can get through this,’ because I wanted to be strong for my family.” 

Noticing his distress, Jackson’s care team acted quickly to adjust his treatment plan and ensure his comfort. David and Amy were struck by the professionalism and teamwork they witnessed. “Even though we were surrounded by brilliant individuals, there were no egos – just a clear leader and open communication,” they recalled.  The team worked seamlessly, involving Jackson’s parents in every decision and providing constant reassurance. 

His care team worked to stabilize his condition and took him for an MRI – a difficult task given the presence of his chest tube and his post-operative condition. “It was clear they were truly aware of Jackson’s condition and prioritized his comfort and safety,” his parents said. The MRI revealed something unexpected: Jackson had CPAM, a congenital condition in which abnormal tissue develops in the lungs.  

facing a rare and complex diagnosis 

The diagnosis of CPAM, combined with his already complex condition, made Jackson’s case extremely rare. Despite these challenges, Jackson’s care team worked to provide clear communication and expert guidance. “Even though his case was complicated, every specialist who came into the room knew Jackson’s entire story. They worked together seamlessly and involved us in every step of the process,” shared his parents. 

Dr. Aranda explained the findings from the MRI and included Jackson in deciding when to proceed with the next surgery to remove the affected part of his lung.  

Jackson underwent a successful lobectomy in December to remove the lowest lobe of his right lung. Given the complexity of the surgery, Dr. Aranda took extra care to navigate around scar tissue while using a minimally invasive technique. After surgery, Jackson recovered faster than expected and was home by the weekend. 

a journey back to normalcy 

Despite the many obstacles, Jackson’s resilience shines through. By spring, he was back on the track team. While he was slower and had less energy than before, he was determined to push forward. He also plays in a fun basketball league and referees flag football games. 

Looking ahead, Jackson wants to pursue a career in law enforcement, inspired by his strength and perseverance. “He’s always been determined,” his parents said. “This experience has only made him stronger.” 

what mattered most to the Dobson family 

Reflecting on their experience, Jackson’s parents described the care as exceptional. “What struck us most was how unified the care team was. Even though Jackson’s case was rare and complex, every person – from the nurses to the specialist – worked together with precision and compassion.” They also noted the personal connections made during their time at Dayton Children’s: “Seeing Black male nurses on staff was meaningful for Jackson. It gave him someone to look up to during an incredibly difficult time.”