Meet Colleen S., Parent Mentor at Akron Children's

Colleen's Story
Our family has been a part of the Akron Children's Hospital family for over a decade. When my son, Isaac, was around 4 years old, he was diagnosed with a "growth hormone deficiency" due to a misshapen pituitary gland. Isaac has been seen by the endocrinology department for over 10 years now. He has received daily growth hormone injections since he was 5 years old and has had great success. He is now taller than both of his parents and thriving in school and many other activities.
We very suddenly became even more familiar with Akron Childrens in 2023 when our daughter, Lenora (Nori), was involved in an accident. She was a pedestrian struck by a car while crossing our street. Nori was rushed to Akron Children's by ambulance where we quickly learned she suffered two fractured vertebrae, a kidney laceration and a severe TBI (diffuse axonal). She was unconscious and in the PICU for about one week. As she slowly emerged and recovered from her injuries, she received a plethora of therapies and care at Akron Children's. She was admitted for 7 weeks total. Upon discharge, she then received therapy at Akron Children's Day Rehab program for another couple of months. Nori still receives physical therapy on an outpatient basis to this day (August 2024). Nori is doing wonderfully and has far surpassed the expectations of all. She is back to school full time, thriving in her academics and after school activities and clubs (drama, choir, crocheting, crafting, outdoor play, etc). I always say that Akron Children's not only saved her life, they gave her life back... they rehabilitated her mind, soul and body.
In early 2024, I decided to become a Parent Mentor and also serve on the Parent Advisory Council. If I can stand with, encourage, pray for, inform or advocate for even just ONE parent, it would be my honor.
Colleen is a parent mentor for these conditions: Brain Injury, Growth Disorders.
Colleen is a mentor for these care services: Endocrine, Neurology, Rehab, Trauma