GCH Buffalo and Olean General Hospital partner to deliver lifesaving care for newborn

Updated: Monday, February 23, 2026 1:43 PM

GCH Buffalo and Olean General Hospital partner to deliver lifesaving care for newborn

Through close collaboration with partner hospitals across Western New York and the Southern Tier, Golisano Children's Hospital of Buffalo (GCH Buffalo) works to ensure families have access to advanced pediatric and neonatal care when it matters most.

For Denae Gargano of Olean, choosing Olean General Hospital (OGH) for the birth of her child felt like the right decision.

"I knew the quality of care I'd receive here," Gargano said. "It's close to home, and my last delivery in November 2024 went so well."

As her pregnancy progressed, she experienced complications, including high blood pressure, persistent pain near her liver, worsening headaches and vision changes. The OGH obstetrics team closely monitored her condition and remained prepared to intervene as needed.

After more than 13 hours of labor, Vincenzo Arthur Gargano was born on Jan. 1 at 3:55 p.m., weighing 6 lbs., 9 oz. and measuring 19.5 inches long. As OGH's first baby of the New Year, his arrival was a moment of celebration for the family.

Soon after delivery, an OGH nurse noticed changes in Vincenzo's breathing. The care team responded immediately, stabilizing him and initiating next steps.

"The nurses' quick response made all the difference," Gargano said. "If we'd taken him home without noticing the warning signs, Vincenzo's lungs would have collapsed."

Recognizing that Vincenzo required advanced neonatal care, the OGH team coordinated a transfer to GCH Buffalo. Through the integrated network of Kaleida Health, the transition was seamless.

GCH Buffalo's Neonatal Transport Team traveled from Buffalo to Olean to safely transport Vincenzo. Before departure, the team brought him to his mother so she could see him one more time.

"It was a winter storm on New Year's Day, which made me nervous," Gargano said. "But the team reassured me that he was in great hands."

While Vincenzo traveled with his father, Michael, Denae remained overnight at OGH to recover.

"That was one of the hardest nights of my life," she said. "Being separated from my baby so soon after birth was incredibly emotional. But the nurses stayed with me, explained everything and supported me."

At GCH Buffalo, Vincenzo was diagnosed with respiratory distress, neonatal respiratory acidosis, hyaline membrane disease and surfactant disorder. He spent more than four days in the neonatal intensive care unit, receiving specialized, around-the-clock care.

After her discharge, Denae traveled to Buffalo to remain by her son's side. The family stayed at the Ronald McDonald House, allowing them to remain close to Vincenzo. Their four older children were cared for by family and friends in Olean.

"Knowing GCH Buffalo was there for us gave me peace of mind," Gargano said. "Having that level of care close to home is so important for families in our region."

The partnership between OGH and GCH Buffalo played a critical role in ensuring Vincenzo received the right care at the right time.

"We're grateful that OGH still offers labor and delivery services locally," Gargano said. "And that we're part of a connected system that made this level of care possible."

Recently, the Gargano family returned to Olean General Hospital to thank the obstetrics team who supported them. They were welcomed by familiar faces and expressions of gratitude.

"This is the nurse who was here when I delivered-she was wonderful," Gargano said, recognizing Ashley Ball, RN.

Stories like the Gargano family's reflect the strength of Kaleida Health's regional care network. Through close coordination, specialized transport services and advanced pediatric expertise, GCH Buffalo works with its partner hospitals to ensure families have access to high-quality care close to home whenever possible.

"We are forever grateful for the individuals and teams that saved our son's life and supported our family," Gargano said.