Dr. Kelly K. Lastrapes

Medical Director

In a sense, Dr. Kelly Lastrapes, medical director of Noah’s Children has been preparing most of her life for this position.  She was inspired by her personal and professional connection with Noah’s Children founder, Dr. Bob Archuleta.  Dr. Archuleta was her pediatrician so they’ve had a longstanding relationship since she was a child. He encouraged her interest in medicine and healing people so at 8 years old she knew she wanted to be a pediatrician.

She completed her undergraduate studies at the College of William & Mary. After undergrad, Dr. Lastrapes began medical school at Virginia Commonwealth University. She completed her pediatric residency at Children’s Hospital New Orleans, and lived in that city for four years. It was during her time in New Orleans that Dr. Lastrapes solidified the focus of her medical career: pediatric oncology and hematology.

Her holistic approach to caring for her patients aligned perfectly with the mission and work of Noah’s Children, says Dr. Lastrapes. Her goal is to help Noah’s Children continue in its mission, while also expanding education, awareness and availability of palliative care.

Dr. Lastrapes hopes Noah’s Children will continue in its dedication to being a source of support and encouragement for patients and their families throughout their entire journey. She advocates for children to be referred to the organization at the time of their life-threatening diagnoses, rather than in their last days. Making this early connection allows families to prepare for the emotional, spiritual and social aspects of the dying process.

She is married and has one daughter.