When it comes to protecting kids, few efforts are as impactful and lifesaving as teaching children how to be safe around water. That commitment is why Brian Bidlingmyer of the Akron Area YMCA was named the recipient of Akron Children’s very first Community Hero Award. The Community Hero Award is part of Akron Children’s More […]
Amanda Wade bridges practice and education in her new role
When Nurse Practitioner Amanda Wade steps into her new dual role between Akron Children’s Emergency Room and The University of Akron’s Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) Program, she’ll be doing more than balancing 2 jobs. Instead, in this role, she’ll help connect real-world pediatric care with the next generation of advanced practice providers (APPs). A career […]
The Magic of Michael Foundation brings holiday joy to Akron Children’s families
In 2015, John and Denise Hirschbeck formed the Magic of Michael Foundation in honor of their son Michael, who died of a rare neurological disease called adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) in 2014. The goal of their foundation is to help families facing life’s curveballs – a nod to Michael’s love of baseball and John’s longtime Major League […]
Woman shares how childhood cancer led to career helping kids
If you saw 25-year-old Molly Norris today, you’d never guess she’s been fighting serious health challenges since she was a toddler. Diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) at age 2, a biologic medication finally gave her relief. But in 2010, when she was in 5th grade, her health again took a turn for the worse. […]
Delivering empathy and expertise: Sue Nicholas retires from Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Sue Nicholas, a nurse practitioner in Maternal-Fetal Medicine, has felt privileged to work with high-risk pregnancies during her 15-year career at Akron Children’s. Her role as part of a multidisciplinary team gave her many opportunities to support families while they navigate uncertain times and make difficult decisions. As she prepares to retire on July 25, […]
Family says counseling, open communication key to strong mental health
For Cohen Pierce, it was triggered by the transition to middle school. For his younger sister Lila, it was most apparent the morning of test days. The “its” in both cases were mental health concerns. Cohen’s depression manifested as changes in his personality. He went from his normal happy-go-lucky self to feeling down and negative […]
