The Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center opens in November 2025. Here are the top three things you need to know: The center will provide a better experience for patients with autism spectrum disorders. The new center, designed to help patients feel comfortable, is on the first floor of the Rebecca D. Considine Research […]
Hospital Updates
Generations of care: Phadrea Hickman retires after 28 years
Phadrea Hickman’s career at Akron Children’s began with family ties and, as she transitions into retirement, her family will remain firmly at the center of her life. When Phadrea joined the Akron Children’s team in 1997, she followed in the footsteps of her mother, who worked in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, and her […]
Akron Children’s Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Department hosts summer camp weekend
Studies show that spending time in nature is good for your body and mind. The Akron Children’s department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health recently provided a special summer camp experience for more than 20 kids engaged in services within the department. The goals were simple: fun, fresh air and friendship. Planning the behavioral health camp […]
Teresa Dangerfield looks forward to the new rhythm of retirement
Teresa Dangerfield, arrhythmia device coordinator in cardiology, is stepping into retirement with a legacy that beats strong and a heart full of memories. “Teresa has been a valued member of the Akron Children’s Hospital workforce for over 30 years,” said Dr. Stephen Manu, a pediatric cardiologist at the Akron Children’s Heart Center. “Her dedication and […]
Akron Children’s Parent Family Advisory Council celebrates 30 years and a new name
Thirty years ago, the seeds of Akron Children’s Parent Advisory Council were planted in the legacy of one little girl. Angie Swords, a hematology/oncology patient, passed away from childhood leukemia at the age of 13. During her hospital stays, Angie painted colorful suncatchers and gave them to nurses, staff and friends. Her mother, Joyce, wanted […]
Patient experience spotlight: Dr. Dipti Sekhsaria
Every month, Akron Children’s recognizes an employee for providing an excellent patient experience. July’s honoree is Dr. Dipti Sekhsaria, pediatrician at Akron Children’s Pediatrics in Wadsworth. She recently received this feedback from a grateful parent: “I recently had the opportunity to meet Dipti Sekhsaria, MD, for the first time, and I must say it was […]













