Looking back, Kim Oldfield, nurse program coordinator in Akron Children’s pediatric epilepsy program, has always been drawn to caregiving. It started with babysitting in her neighborhood. Later, it was her mother’s enthusiasm toward nursing and Kim’s interest in science that spurred her on to become a nurse. “I thought I would be a nurse caring […]
NDSC is core to Joey’s care team
The Akron Children’s NeuroDevelopmental Science Center (NDSC) brings together 5 pediatric specialties under one roof to deliver the best outcomes and quality of life for children affected by neurological and developmental disorders. For Joey Ricci, now 18, the NDSC is where his health journey began. At 6 months old, Joey still wasn’t thriving, and tests […]
How to help your special-needs child achieve school success
Katrina Hermetet, PhD, offers a unique background that is helping families better understand both the clinical and school side of any child’s school success story. As director of neurobehavioral health and pediatric clinical psychologist in Akron Children’s NeuroDevelopmental Science Center, she helps kids with disabilities so they can achieve their potential in the classroom. On […]
Medina girl shines on Hollywood runway, modeling adaptive footwear
Meghan Cawley, 10, of Medina, was beaming as brightly as any of the lights on her as she walked the runway in Hollywood. Meghan, who has congenital hydrocephalus, epilepsy and severe scoliosis, was invited to model shoes that make it easier for kids like her who wear ankle braces, technically called ankle foot orthotics (AFOs). […]
Inclusion is key to Piper’s legacy
Some people spend years trying to find their mission in life. For sweet Piper Grace Hoefler, it took just 27 days. Piper passed away from the effects of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 0, but her legacy lives on in books about inclusion donated by her family’s charitable organization, Piper’s Key. “I didn’t want to […]
Medical genetics journey leads East Liverpool family to a surprise and a diagnosis for their son
It took Heather McCune and her fiancé, John Scott, three years to get a diagnosis for their son and learned something quite remarkable. He is the third-known child to be diagnosed in the world with a genetic condition so new it does not have an official name. Heather, who lives in East Liverpool, recognized almost […]