Akron Children’s is unique in that three of its 11 orthopedic surgeons are women, well above the national average of just 7%. Orthopedic Surgeon Julie Samora, MD, PhD, chairs the Akron Children’s Orthopedics department, which is also rare. The trio of female orthopedic surgeons – Drs. Samora, Lorena Floccari and Sheryl Handler-Matasar – recently led […]
Breastfeeding after breast cancer: Leah’s story
Leah Hecht was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 32. A few years after completing treatment, Leah became pregnant with her first child, and like most moms, started thinking about what breastfeeding would look like. But having had a lumpectomy and radiation on her affected breast, Leah wasn’t sure what was possible. “I was […]
Measles FAQ for parents
What is measles? Measles is a highly contagious virus. It causes a widespread rash, fever and flu-like symptoms and can lead to dangerous complications and death. What are the symptoms of measles? Symptoms of measles appear 7 to 14 days after infection. Measles symptoms include: High fever Cough Congestion A rash that begins on the […]
Akron Children’s hospitalists earn state breastfeeding awards
Akron Children’s collaborates with many hospitals, including Wooster Community Hospital. Our hospitalists – doctors who work inside a hospital and only care for inpatients – recently won awards for breastfeeding support provided to patients at the Wooster Community Hospital Women’s Pavilion. Healthcare Professional Award The Ohio Lactation Consultant Association (OLCA) recognized the Akron Children’s hospitalist […]
Minerva teen learns mysterious cause of his intense pain is slipping rib syndrome
Parker Linkous,16, was a typical, active, happy high school student, juggling classes and three sports at Minerva High School. But life changed in November 2024 rather suddenly when he began experiencing a mysterious pain in his torso while playing basketball. Before long, the pain began to consume his every waking moment. “It felt like […]
Physician staff gives back to patient families in need
In recognition of National Doctors’ Day, the medical staff executive committee voted to make a $16,000 donation to the newly opened Food Farmacy on the Boardman campus. This is the third year that medical staff funds have been used to make a charitable donation rather than purchasing tokens of appreciation for providers. Presenting the donation […]













