When Summa NICU nurse Abi Daugherty began her career at Akron Children’s in 2018 she had a very different role. “I was hired as a housekeeper in environmental services while I was still in nursing school,” said Abi. At the time, Abi was entering her third year in the nursing program at the University of […]
Kari Phillips signing off after 32-year career as executive assistant
When Kari Phillips applied to Akron Children’s in 1989 at the urging of her childhood friend (Gayle Zimmerman), she never imagined they both would have 30+ year careers at Akron Children’s and retire in the same year. On Oct. 1, Kari will log off her computer for the last time as executive assistant to Pam […]
Walk for Babies family growing fast after 53-day NICU stay
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 […]
Rick Trego plans a retirement full of good times and projects in his “man cave”
Rick Trego, security officer in Akron Children’s public safety, believes that small acts of kindness make a big difference. Whether at work or in the community, Rick regularly interacts with people in ways that let them know he understands their need for self-respect and dignity. By showing empathy or making a connection, Rick is often […]
Chuck Reid installs a new personal “phone” number: 1-330-RETIRED
Like a lot of teenagers, Chuck Reid, telecommunications technician in information services infrastructure, dreamed big. In Chuck’s case, he played guitar and bass, and performed locally in a band. Some shows were on school nights and went late into the night. Although his parents encouraged him musically, they made sure Chuck woke up on time […]
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 […]