Jackson Mead of North Canton, age 16, is on his high school robotics team and loves to figure out how things work. When he became the first Akron Children’s patient to undergo the TNE procedure, which doesn’t require anesthesia like a traditional “upper endoscopy,” he excitedly asked a lot of questions. Stomach issues start Jackson […]
Patient Stories
Woman shares how childhood cancer led to career helping kids
If you saw 25-year-old Molly Norris today, you’d never guess she’s been fighting serious health challenges since she was a toddler. Diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) at age 2, a biologic medication finally gave her relief. But in 2010, when she was in 5th grade, her health again took a turn for the worse. […]
Jack faces football injuries with optimism and determination
Jack Litton is the student body president and a 4-year starter on the Howland High School football team. Although his team hasn’t enjoyed many victories, he has overcome injury and learned skills that will last a lifetime. Jack grew up around football. His dad, Chris, was a high school athletic administrator and coach. “I always […]
Orthopedic care inspires Andrea’s career path
Andrea Garrett started as an Akron Children’s orthopedics patient, born with clubfeet and knock knees. She’s now an employee who credits Dr. Mark Adamczyk, pediatric orthopedic surgeon and Clubfoot Clinic director, with inspiring her to pursue a health care career. Andrea’s orthopedic care At 2 months old, she had her first appointment with Dr. Adamczyk. […]
College student on the mend thanks to care at Akron Children’s for torn ACL
For Ridgewood High School softball player Maggie Shannon, her senior season ended far too soon. Just 8 games into the year, the 17-year-old suffered a devastating injury while running the bases. “She pivoted to head back to second, and as she turned, she felt a pop and dropped to the ground,” recalled her mom, Robin. […]
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 […]
