When Alex was 2, he began to experience painful urination and had blood in his urine. After a year of misdiagnosis by specialists near his home, his family turned to CHOP Specialty Care at Virtua for help. Initial imaging revealed a large bladder stone and Alex was referred to a pediatric urologist who discovered a second stone in Alex?s kidney. Alex underwent immediate surgery to remove the stones and prevent kidney failure. During surgery, doctors discovered the cause of his stones ? a rare genetic condition called cystinuria that affects kidney function. With ongoing monitoring to prevent recurrence, 6-year-old Alex is now pain free and enjoying kindergarten. He?s learning to swim, loves music and has dreams of building rockets.