In the fall or 2020, we introduced you to Kamryn who was hoping to celebrate her first birthday and first anniversary of no pain episodes due to her sickle cell disease. On Sickle Cell Awareness Day, we’re happy to report she was able to celebrate both! While COVID-19 kept many of us from doing ordinary things, it […]
At Akron Children’s, we believe in the power of personal stories to provide support and inspiration. We encourage you to share how we’ve touched you and your family, and by doing so, allow our online community to learn from your experiences.
Not a second to spare: Quick action and an AED save 5-year-old
As Alexandra (Alex) Lucas and her mom raced down a grocery store aisle for an urgent visit to the bathroom, they found themselves in a very different kind of emergency situation. Upon entering a stall, Alex, just 5 years old, went into cardiac arrest. “Alex fell face-first onto the floor. I thought she must have […]
Delaney is now 5 years cancer-free following prompt care by the Pediatric Thyroid Program team
As a senior at Field High School, Delaney Streby discovered a large lump on her neck, which prompted a referral to pediatric endocrinologist, Dr. Mamatha Kambalapalli, who leads the Pediatric Thyroid Program at Akron Children’s Hospital. “Initially my primary care doctor thought it might be due to swollen lymph nodes,” Delaney said. Dr. Kambalapalli ordered […]
Living with cystic fibrosis just part of life for 17-year-old
When Megan Carey was pregnant with her son, Josh, an amniocentesis revealed he carried the mutation for cystic fibrosis (CF), a progressive, genetic disorder that causes frequent lung infections and can impair breathing. Questioned by her doctors about whether she wanted to continue the pregnancy, Megan says there was never a doubt. “I had half-sisters […]
West Akron teenager gains confidence and independence, one step at a time
Like most teenagers, Serenity Smolen is constantly learning, exploring and discovering what she does and doesn’t like. Some of the time, she encounters a learning curve. When it comes to conquering new undertakings, Serenity, 13, is a pro. It’s something she’s done all her life. Serenity, who was born with congenital limb differences that affect […]
Right place at the right time: Marietta boy battles cancer during a pandemic at Akron Children’s
February 2020 brought a global pandemic and a cancer diagnosis to then 11-year-old Paul Smith. Both required isolation and patience. Both would bring tears and sacrifice. But neither could stop Paul’s resilience, a mother’s love or a care team dedicated to getting Paul back to his best. On a family ski trip, Paul’s cancer let […]
