Ten years ago, Emma Laubacher, attended Walsh University for undergraduate and graduate school. A native of North Canton, Ohio, she was familiar with Akron Children’s and the important role to provide quality, pediatric health care for communities outside of Akron. “Akron Children’s is a pillar, shaping the lives of so many children and families,” shared […]
Advanced practice providers thrive in their roles on the night shift
Physician assistant Staci Shaffer has always been a bit of a “night owl,” so it’s no surprise that she is Akron Children’s first advanced practice provider (APP) night house officer, hired in 2017 when this service was added. “I am happiest at 2 a.m.,” she said. Staci loves the variety that this role offers, as […]
Akron Children’s celebrates APP Awardees
Akron Children’s is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s APP awards, honoring outstanding Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) for their dedication, leadership, and exceptional contributions to patient care. The awards celebrate Nancy Delnay, APRN-CNP, in rheumatology for Excellence in Practice, and Dr. Laura Pollauf, division director in emergency medicine, for Outstanding Physician for APP […]
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 […]
Pediatric brain cancer survivor holds special place in nurse’s heart
Jill Smith, lead APP (advanced practice provider) in the Perioperative Surgical Home (PSH), first met Belle Bateman when she was just 3 years old and 6 weeks post-treatment for a rare brain tumor. At the time of their meeting, Belle had undergone extensive surgeries as well as chemotherapy and radiation. “I got to know Belle and […]
Fran Feesler named Magnet Nurse of the Year
Although she was recently named Akron Children’s Magnet Nurse of the Year for exemplifying excellence in professional practice, Fran Feesler, MSN, APRN, FNP, an advanced practice provider (APP) in the Heart Center, didn’t initially plan to become a nurse. “I have a degree in elementary education, but in the early ‘90s teaching jobs were scarce,” […]
