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Kentucky Children’s Hospital is now Golisano Children’s at UK.

About

Dr. Donita Lightner specializes in pediatric neuro-oncology. She received her medical degree from the University of Kentucky and completed her residency at Kosair Children’s Hospital in Louisville. Additionally, she completed a pediatric neurology residency and fellowship at the University of Kentucky and a pediatric neuro-oncology fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.

Dr. Lightner specializes in pediatric brain tumors and joins Dr. Thomas Pittman in the management of children with brain tumors.

Faculty Rank

  • Associate Professor of Pediatrics

Training & Education

Degree

University of Kentucky, College of Medicine

Residency

Pediatric Neurology, University of Kentucky
Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Kosair Children's Hospital

Fellowship

Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York

Certifications and Special Training

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Child Neurology

Insurance Information

Insurance policies can vary widely. Please check with your doctor/clinic for specific insurance information before your visit or procedure to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

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Patient Stories

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Ratings & Reviews

4.9 out of 5
6 Reviews

The star rating is a calculation based on feedback from our patients using our nationally-recognized Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survey. Learn more about our survey process. Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.

  • Patient Review

    -
    August 25th 2025
    She was super sweet and compassionate and made my dad and I very hopeful and relieved that we went through the trouble to travel.

    Patient Review

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    June 3rd 2025
    Lightner is always very pleasant to see she explains everything very patient with patient and his need very hard child sometime to understand but she really tries.

    Patient Review

    -
    April 1st 2025
    Loved Dr. Lightner! We'd recommend her to anyone needing a neurologist!

    Patient Review

    -
    January 28th 2025
    Donita is Incredible!!!

    Patient Review

    -
    January 14th 2025
    The nurse and by the medical student (I believe he was) Alex was outstanding!!
    • Patient Review

      -
      December 31st 2024
      Dr. Lightner is incredible! She took the time to talk through all our worries and provided lots of reassurance. I'd recommend her to anyone!