As a pediatric neurologist at Akron Children’s NeuroDevelopmental Science Center, Stephen Steiner, MD, PhD, knows that patients and families often arrive nervous for appointments, but his unique approach to family-centered care helps put them at ease. Read the feedback a patient family shared after a recent visit: “I want to say that the doctor [Dr. […]
Akron Children’s nurse finds support and advocacy for son with Down syndrome
Hilary Tonni’s connection to Akron Children’s runs deep. Not only has she worked here for the last 16 years (currently as a clinical research nurse), it’s also the place she seeks care for her 8-year-old son, Gabe, who has Down syndrome. Hilary’s journey with Gabe began with a 20-week ultrasound that hinted at the possibility […]
Teen turns chronic pain journey into award-winning art
When Sara Render was 16 years old she developed what she thought was a run-of-the-mill ear infection that was accompanied by a headache. “We saw an ear, nose and throat doctor (ENT) to clear up the ear infection, but the headache never went away,” said Sara. After consulting her pediatrician and trying different medications, she […]
A high-fat medical keto diet can be life-changing for children with epilepsy
A diet where generous amounts of oil, butter, mayonnaise and heavy cream are encouraged may sound odd but it’s keeping dozens of Akron Children’s patients seizure free and restoring normalcy to their lives. That makes parents and doctors big advocates of the medical keto diet for children whose seizures do not respond well to […]
For Kim Oldfield, retirement means ditching a set schedule and enjoying family and fun
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 […]
