In 2015, John and Denise Hirschbeck formed the Magic of Michael Foundation in honor of their son Michael, who died of a rare neurological disease called adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) in 2014. The goal of their foundation is to help families facing life’s curveballs – a nod to Michael’s love of baseball and John’s longtime Major League […]
Donor Features
Former patient brings magic and gratitude to Akron Children’s Holiday Tree Festival
Each Thanksgiving season, the John S. Knight Center transforms into a winter wonderland filled with sparkling lights, themed trees and holiday cheer. Among the hundreds of dazzling displays, 1 tree holds special meaning for a former Akron Children’s patient. From patient to supporter At just 11 months old, Megan Hammersmith was diagnosed with type 1 […]
Rustic wonderland-themed tree honors a grandmother’s legacy of love
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 […]
A smile in hard times: Jim and Nancy Cleveland help children find joy through Child Life care
What inspires people to give? For some, it’s a personal experience. For others, like Jim and Nancy Cleveland, it’s a moment that opens their eyes to a need. At The Country Club of Hudson, a group hosted an event featuring a performance by kids in palliative care at Akron Children’s. “It was moving to see […]
Professionals on purpose: A committed cohort of 25 business leaders makes lasting change
Business professionals are used to having an impact in their companies. Through the Emerging Leaders Board at Akron Children’s, they’re able to have an impact on the healthy futures of children. Since its formation in 2011, the group has raised nearly $2 million — and is now fulfilling a $1.5 million pledge. “In the next […]
Investing in their roots: Kyle and Samantha Quillen help kids in Tuscarawas County
Kyle and Samantha Quillen have a deep love for Tuscarawas County, Ohio – the place where they grew up and now live, work and raise their son. This rural county boasts good schools, hardworking people, an interesting mix of businesses and a tight-knit community where people support each other through the good and bad. The […]
