In the realm of numbers, each one tells a story. For 18-year-old Devyn Emmons, the number “54” carries some weight because it signifies the number of surgeries and procedures he’s been through over the last 18 years. Devyn’s journey began on October 3, 2005, when he went into fetal distress and had to be delivered […]
New mom achieved ‘priceless gift’ of tandem nursing twins with help of Akron Children’s breastfeeding medicine specialist
Allison Gonzales was Dr. Carly Dulabon’s first patient when Akron Children’s opened its Breastfeeding Medicine Program in February 2024. Dr. Dulabon was inspired to start the program because, years earlier, she too was exactly in Allison’s place – a new mom of twins who had been through the emotional roller coaster ride of the […]
A parent’s perspective: Witnessing the power of our PICU
Many of us wear multiple hats in life. Advanced practice providers are no different. They dedicate themselves to caring for children, but at home, they’re simply parents. The following story comes from a place many providers can relate to – the vulnerability of their own child’s health and the profound gratitude for the incredible care […]
Ahead of the curve: Spinal tethering surgery helps gymnast recover from scoliosis
Mady Sirlouis, age 11, is a bit of a frequent flier – adept at both back handsprings and trips to Akron Children’s for frequent broken bones. “She breaks a bone every year,” said her mom, Autumn, “She’s broken both arms and both legs multiple times, but that doesn’t stop her from doing back flips and […]
A little boy with cancer wishes for a baby sister – and despite all odds – she is on her way
Disney trips, celebrity meetings and other grand adventures usually top the list when 6-year-old boys with cancer are approached by wish-granting organizations. Liam Whitworth, of Doylestown, asked for a baby sister. And she is on the way. Liam has named his baby sister, Zoey, and their story is one that is both beautiful and heartbreaking. […]
24-year-old becomes first Akron Children’s patient to undergo transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement
Tony Ferrante, age 24, was born with complex congenital heart disease (CHD). His condition is called pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum and it’s a condition he has and will live with for the rest of his life. According to one of Tony’s adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) cardiologists, Dr. Ashish Saini, CHD is the […]