Four days after her 18th surgery, Madelyn Trachsel, age 9, walked into Akron Children’s. But today she wasn’t here in her usual capacity as a patient. Instead, she was a doctor in training, stepping into a dream she’s had for many years. “Ever since she was little, she’s said she wants to be a doctor,” […]
Teen dancer’s sudden seizure leads to lifesaving autoimmune encephalitis diagnosis
On the morning of July 22, 2025, 14-year-old Grey Griggy woke up dizzy, vomiting and unable to walk. Her mom, Stacey, tried to keep things calm as they sat down to watch a movie together. But during a simple conversation about what to watch, Stacey noticed something alarming. “She was describing the movie she wanted […]
APP supervisor transition: new responsibilities, new impact
The Advanced Practice Center at Akron Children’s recently added a new leadership model that expands clinical leadership across teams. The APP supervisor role was developed to support a stronger, more intentional clinician-to-clinician reporting structure across all specialties and settings. “This model was created to strengthen communication, accountability and collaboration across Akron Children’s,” said Jenny Michel, […]
Responsive neurostimulator (RNS) technology changes Conner’s life
Conner Butler of Jeromesville, Ohio is a trailblazer. He’s the first Akron Children’s patient to have an RNS device implanted to reduce seizures caused by epilepsy. He’s gone from missing school and constantly worrying about seizures to being back in class and hanging out with his friends. Diagnosis and daily struggles As a child, Conner […]
Twin boys are thriving 1 year after their emergency birth
When Alison Speelman learned she was pregnant in the fall 2023, it was a total surprise. But a bigger surprise was yet to come. “I had my first ultrasound at 7 weeks, and that’s when we found out we were having twins,” she said. “My husband, Josh, and I didn’t speak on the ride home […]
Baby Rula heads home for Christmas
It was Nov. 12 when little Rula Robinson was being discharged from Akron Children’s but already Christmas was on everyone’s mind. Rula had been in the hospital 238 days, but she would be home for Christmas. She would be with mom and dad, Sydney and Patrick, and her three big sisters – Arabella, Theia […]
