Malikai Wiseman of Green had a routine pregnancy and delivery at Summa Health. But her baby boy, Oliver, had trouble breathing. He went from the nursery to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). “I was 20 years old when Oliver was born. Being a young parent is scary in and of itself,” Malikai said. “Then […]
Counting her blessings: Denise Saraniti retires after a 44-year NICU career
From staff nurse to educator, Denise Saraniti has worn many hats since joining Akron Children’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in 1981. She also embraced the dual roles of proud mother and collaborator when her daughter, Krista, joined Akron Children’s as a child life specialist. Their close relationship sparked greater awareness and interdepartmental collaboration. […]
Akron Children’s tiniest Swifties celebrate their NICU era
The countdown to Taylor Swift’s new album release, “The Life of a Showgirl,” has fans around the world buzzing. Now, some of Akron Children’s tiniest patients are joining the celebration in their own adorable way. From sparkling dresses to football jerseys, the babies in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) became “Tiny Swifties” for a […]
Wynn’s inspiring journey from preemie to respiratory therapist
Wynn Stoller gives Akron Children’s families hope just by walking in the door. Why? Because he’s gone from a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) patient to a Respiratory Therapist – training he received through the Career Launch program. Early arrival Wynn entered the world Dec. 14, 2002. Born at 24 weeks, he weighed just 1 […]
Mental health supports mom and baby
People say a baby changes everything. But as any mom knows, those changes begin long before the baby is born. Not only do their bodies change, but they may have psychological and emotional concerns. Depression during and after pregnancy Any woman can develop mental health issues during pregnancy and in the first year after delivery. […]
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 […]
