Mom shares what Akron Children’s new Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center means for families

Korbin Baker loves coming to the hospital to visit his mom, Melissa, who works in the Family Resource Center.

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 intensive care unit and now as supervisor of the Family Resource Center.

A journey shaped by empathy and advocacy

As a longtime Akron Children’s employee, Melissa says she was fortunate to know where to turn for help when Korbin began showing signs of developmental differences. “I felt blessed that I worked here and knew people, and I had strong supports,” she said.

Korbin was diagnosed with autism at age 4 1/2. Early on, he participated in occupational and feeding therapy.

Early on, Korbin started occupational therapy and feeding therapy to address sensory and eating challenges.

“Feeding is a big struggle for him. He’s a very restrictive eater,” Melissa said. “Over time, it became clear he needed more support, leading to his autism diagnosis at age 4½.”

Professionally, Melissa spent years supporting families through their own health journeys as a child life specialist. That experience became a lifeline when she became the parent in need of care.

“I learned so much from the families I worked with. By the time I had this journey of my own, I had more empathy as a mother,” she said. “I also knew what questions to ask and how to advocate for him.”

Korbin is currently in the fifth grade in the Stow-Munroe Falls school system.

A parent’s perspective helps shape the new Autism Center

That blend of professional insight and personal experience made Melissa an ideal voice to help shape Akron Children’s new Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center, located at 130 W. Exchange St. on the hospital’s Akron campus. The 11,020-square-foot center was designed to be accessible, inclusive and sensory-friendly, with close parking and easy building access to reduce stress for families.

“We’re very excited to be opening a visible center for autism on the Akron campus that can serve as a hub to help autistic patients and families along their journeys,” said Dr. Jessica Foster, a developmental behavioral pediatrician and medical director of the center.

“In addition to the excellent care already available through Akron Children’s programs and offices across northeast Ohio, the new center will provide access to specialized services,” she added. “Our goal is family-centered, coordinated and inclusive care for our patients and families with autism and related developmental disabilities throughout Akron Children’s. This new center is another step toward achieving that.”

Korbin loves swimming, playing Challenger Baseball and collecting stuffed animals.

As Melissa reviewed the blueprints with the architect and care team leaders, she couldn’t help but think back to the day of Korbin’s diagnosis. “That appointment was long. It took a couple of hours,” she said. “Korbin was spent; I was overwhelmed and crying.”

When reviewing the Autism Center’s thoughtful design, Melissa was deeply moved. “It just felt so intentional, so mindful and so purposeful for what families will go through,” Melissa said. “It warmed my heart. I told the architects, ‘This feels like you’re embracing families in a hug.’”

From planning to personal impact

The center features a soothing environment with designated quiet spaces, soft lighting and subtle colors. The main waiting area includes sensory-friendly features such as bubble walls, touch surfaces and reading nooks where children can relax or decompress.

Not every family has the same level of support she did, and that’s why Melissa said the new center means so much. “It’s away from the busyness of the main hospital, with places kids can go if they feel overwhelmed,” she said. “It’s sensory-friendly, nonjudgmental and welcoming – exactly what families need when they’re navigating something so emotional.”

Korbin is excited about the opening of the new Autism Center. He got to sign the drywall during construction and is looking forward to attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 7.

Melissa said even the practical details make a big difference. “They thought of things like moving the waiting area away from the door, which is huge for safety because some children tend to run off,” she said. “They even added a sibling area. My son doesn’t have siblings, but so many kids do, and that thoughtfulness matters.”

A hopeful future for families

“I’m just so proud that we have this,” she said. “The fact that I am a mother who will benefit from it, and also an employee who could be part of it, is amazing,” said Melissa.

Korbin, too, feels connected to the project. He got to sign the drywall during construction and is looking forward to attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “He thinks he’s famous here because people always say ‘hi’ to him,” Melissa laughed.

Today, Korbin continues to thrive. He no longer needs occupational therapy but still participates in feeding therapy and counseling to manage anxiety. “He can talk about his emotions probably more than a 40-year-old adult can,” Melissa said.

Melissa knows firsthand how much the new Autism Center will mean for families like hers.

“For families who might otherwise feel lost, this center will be their place of hope,” Melissa said.