The Seroka Sisters: How One Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency (OTC) Diagnosis Changed a Family

For months, the Seroka family searched for answers.

When Megan and Matt’s daughter Cam was just a year old, she began experiencing episodes that no one could explain. She would suddenly become sick, vomit for hours and scream in pain. Visit after visit, doctor after doctor, they were told it was a virus, a phase or even a temper tantrum. But the parents followed their gut and knew it was something deeper.

As the episodes became more severe, they refused to stop advocating for Cam. Then, one terrifying day, during a drive to the emergency room, Cam slipped into a coma.

Everything changed from there.

After being transferred to Lurie Children’s, a dedicated team on the 21st floor immediately began searching for answers. There, they met Dr. Joshua Baker, who saw what others had missed. Through genetic testing, Cam was finally diagnosed with Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency (OTC). A rare genetic disorder that had gone undetected despite years of symptoms and countless medical visits. 
 
Just days later, Cam opened her eyes. After being in the hospital for over two weeks, she was back to her silly self, dancing and belly laughing.

It was the moment Megan and Matt prayed for. But the story didn’t end there. 

One Diagnosis, Four Lives Changed 

As Dr. Baker continued to see Cam, it was discovered that Cam’s sisters, Blake and Charlotte, also had OTC after receiving news of high ammonia levels. Then came another life-changing discovery: Mom carried the condition as well.

What began as a little girl’s search for answers became a diagnosis that helped protect and guide an entire family.

While their journey with OTC continues, they no longer face it alone. With the help of Dr. Baker and the Edwards Family Division of Genetics and Rare Diseases, the Serokas now have a personalized care plan.

The Walk  

Today, because of the team at Lurie Children’s, the Seroka sisters' days are filled with sports, playing with their friends, dancing, gymnastics and swinging on the monkey bars.

To give back to the hospital that changed their lives, they participate in The Walk every year. They encourage others to register and join in support of care, research and families still searching for answers.

“I walk to raise money because I am forever grateful to Lurie,” said Megan. “Cam is with us because of them. Charlotte and Blake have had episodes as well but because of Lurie we have a diagnosis and now they have a plan for treatment.” 

The Walk for Lurie Children's is more than just an event – it's a powerful day that unites our community in our shared mission to provide a healthier future for every child. The Walk brings together patients, families, caregivers, staff and supporters in a vibrant display of hope and promise.

On Sunday, June 7, join us to walk three miles at Busse Woods or Montrose Harbor alongside patients, families, caregivers and staff, then join the post-walk family celebration and find moments of connection, celebration and inspiration throughout the day.

To register, please visit our website.