Looking at Dana Dawson’s babies today, no one would guess they started their lives with an extended hospital stay. Weighing about 12 pounds each at just 5 months old, the mom of four said, “They’re chunky and love to laugh.” The bouncing baby boys, Amari and Kaiden, spent their first 53 days at Akron Children’s […]
Laurie Fortune’s retirement recollections will include tiny babies and big memories
Growing up in Elyria, Ohio, Laurie Fortune, staff nurse in Akron Children’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), participated in elite gymnastics, a sport that relies just as much on mental focus, discipline and dedication as athleticism to excel. These skills have been invaluable to Laurie as she cared for northeast Ohio’s littlest and most vulnerable […]
Her wish is granted: Mary Douglas retires on July 2
Mary Douglas, director of grant administration in Akron Children’s Foundation, learned about volunteerism from her parents. Mary’s 91-year-old mother, who recently passed away, was a lifelong volunteer, serving at Aultman Hospital and the Red Cross and even handmaking over 100 quilts for Akron Children’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Similarly, Mary’s dad volunteered for Habitat […]
Maria McClure looks forward to staying busy and having fun in retirement
As a child, Maria McClure, neonatal nurse practitioner, dreamed of becoming a nurse. She was inspired by Clara Barton and Florence Nightingale, two of history’s most influential nurses, whom she read about in elementary and middle school. A high school medical explorers program exposed Maria to the health care industry, further sparking her interest. But […]
After a roller coaster ride of a pregnancy, new mother treasures every minute with baby
Kasey Morr envisions her first Mother’s Day with a walk in the park, perhaps a picnic, and lots of snuggling with 10-month-old Avalyn. After all she went through to become a mother, everyday with her baby girl is something to celebrate. Kasey and her husband, John, were told eight years ago that they would be […]
NICU 50th Anniversary stories
The exemplary care delivered at Akron Children’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) has been supported by an important group of people: donors. Many of these generous supporters are former patient families. Here are just a few that Akron Children’s is honored to recognize as the hospital celebrates the NICU’s 50th anniversary. J.P. and Judie Delaney […]