They say a baby changes everything but, as any mom knows, those changes begin long before baby’s arrival. There are obvious physical changes, but in the process of going to check-ups and preparing for baby, there are also psychological and emotional changes mom experiences that are often less talked about or, worse yet, kept silent. […]
Wall of Hope shows light at end of NICU tunnel
No foot is too small to leave an imprint on this world. That’s the Wall of Hope message that greets patient families as they enter the Akron Children’s NICU at St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital. The artful display of 10 uplifting patient family success stories and photos was recently installed in the family waiting area just […]
Wardle twins revisited: Now 3 and medical equipment free
One piece of advice that resonated with Barry and Rachel Wardle when their premature-born twins first arrived in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) was to constantly let them know of your presence. “Talk to them, touch them, read to them, let them hear your voice. They’ll fight harder if they know you’re here,” Barry […]
The ‘girl who lived’ thrives with occupational therapy
Who says miracles and magic aren’t real? Just ask 2-year-old “wizard” Riley Osborn and her parents. From the day she was born – at 23 weeks, 6 days and weighing just a pound and a half – Riley has been proving her doubters wrong at every step – literally. Riley spent the first 130 days […]
Prepared to be Inspired: New Mom Does Whatever it Takes for her Newborn Twins with Spina Bifida
On Sunday, mothers will take center stage, showered with flowers and kind words for the important role they play in all of our lives. Take a moment to admire Linna Nieves, who especially embodies the sacrifice, determination and unconditional love which are integral qualities of all great moms. Linna, an account relationship associate at Huntington […]
Parents weigh in on design of future NICU
Moms who consider themselves “NICU grads” received a detailed look at how Akron Children’s new NICU is taking shape and weighed in on some remaining questions posed by the architects.