Each year, Akron Children’s Hospital is blessed to have individuals and businesses donate beautifully decorated trees to its annual Holiday Tree Festival. With 153 trees on display this season, many tell a story of love, hope and remembrance. For donor Ayla Hargett, her tree’s theme, Rustic Wonderland: A Tree of Warmth and Whimsy, is a […]
Archives for 2025
Mom shares what Akron Children’s new Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center means for families
When Melissa Baker talks about her son, her voice fills with both love and a deep understanding of kids who see the world differently. Melissa is mom to 11-year-old Korbin, who has autism. She has worked at Akron Children’s Hospital for nearly 2 decades – 15 years as a child life specialist in the pediatric […]
Basketball phenom turns a setback into a comeback with help from Akron Children’s
When 14-year-old Trinity Finnie suffered a devastating ACL injury, it could have sidelined her basketball dreams. Instead, with help from Akron Children’s Orthopedics and Sports Medicine teams, she’s proving that ACL injury recovery can be just as inspiring as victory on the court. Learn more about her story as told by her mom, Tamika Jenkins. […]
Melody Strait’s award showcases the heart of community health workers
Melody received the first “Akron Children’s Advocate Award” at the 2025 More childhood, please™. Awards held Oct. 1. Although it’s an individual award, Melody shares it with her fellow community health workers (CHWs). “What an honor to be nominated for the Advocate Award. I cried when I found out I won,” she shared. “Most people […]
Vascular Access Nurse Denaye Beckler receives 2025 AVA Impact Award
Akron Children’s Vascular Access Nurse Denaye Beckler, MSN, APRN, CPNP-AC, CEN, VA-BC, received the 2025 Impact Award from the Association for Vascular Access (AVA). This prestigious, international award honors AVA members who have made significant contributions to the specialty practice of vascular access at a local level. “I feel so honored to receive this award,” […]
Protecting with heart: Chief Klue’s lasting impact on safety at Akron Children’s
When Jerome Klue joined Akron Children’s as director and chief of public safety, it wasn’t just another career move. Rather, it was a continuation of a lifelong mission to protect others and serve with compassion. “I saw an opportunity to lead and at the same time make a meaningful impact in an environment where safety […]
