Incoming medical student Pano Tsarouhas doesn’t yet know what type of medicine he wants to practice, but he knows exactly the type of doctor he wants to be. He plans to model his approach to patient care after Dr. Jeff Hord, the pediatric hematologist/oncologist who cared for him during his fight with Ewing’s sarcoma as […]
Akron Children’s stem cell transplant program awarded FACT accreditation
Akron Children’s has received three-year accreditation by the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT) for its autologous stem cell transplants (where a patient’s own cells are used), immune effector cellular therapy, and the collection of marrow and stem cells. FACT is an internationally-recognized accrediting body for hospitals and medical centers offering stem cell […]
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. […]
11-year-old’s courage inspires community amid third cancer battle
This fall, Noah Kotlarek started sixth grade at Buckeye Intermediate School in Medina. He’s part of the travel soccer program, a huge Star Wars fan and a dedicated gamer. At just 11 years old, he is also facing his third battle with cancer. A tough journey In July 2022, 8-year-old Noah began experiencing troubling symptoms […]
West Virginia mom’s intuition leads to lifesaving diagnosis for her son
As a licensed practical nurse and mom of 2, Jennifer Castleberry has long relied on her instincts. But nothing tested them quite like the mysterious, lingering symptoms that plagued her energetic 8-year-old son, Negan. For months, Negan battled recurring respiratory issues. Then came the night wakings, leg pain and headaches. Jennifer’s concern grew despite rounds […]
Akron Children’s helps two sisters achieve their nursing dreams
Tabitha and Tori Smith share more than a last name. These sisters, who both currently work at Akron Children’s, are on a journey to becoming registered nurses (RNs) together. Enrolled at Stark State College, they will graduate in May 2025. Tori’s desire to become a nurse is deeply personal and stems from her childhood battle […]
