I am the parent of Kaydence Smiley, a vibrant 19-month-old angel whose life was tragically ended prematurely. Kaydence was under the care of Upstate Medical University Hospital and her rheumatology pediatric physician, Dr. Caitlin Sgarlat DeLuca, when an unacceptable incident of medical malpractice took place that resulted in her untimely death. Despite being in what should have been a safe medical environment, our trust was devastatingly betrayed.

According to a 2020 report by Johns Hopkins Medicine, medical errors cause over 250,000 deaths per year in the United States, making it the third leading cause of death after heart disease and cancer. Medical malpractice is prevalent, and our case is sadly not unique - but it should be. Every patient has a right to competent medical treatment.

We ask for your voices in demanding a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Kaydence's death. We require assurance from Upstate Medical University Hospital and Dr. Caitlin Sgarlat DeLuca's respective state Medical Boards that appropriate actions will be taken to heed any findings of professional misconduct.

This petition seeks justice for Kaydence. Our innocent baby girl should have had her entire life ahead of her, but instead, her life was cut short due to failure in her care. Her story must be heard, and actions must be taken to prevent future tragedies.

Please, support our mission for justice. Help us to ensure that no other parent must suffer the same heartbreak. Sign this petition and demand answers and accountability in the tragic death of 19-month-old Kaydence Smiley.