“Simon says do a flip” When Dana Griffith, 14, heard her sibling’s instruction while playing a round of Simon Says on the trampoline, she was ready. The cheerleader used the trampoline to practice jumps and flips, so this should be easy. Mid-flip, Dana realized Simon never said which way to land, and before she could […]
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.
National Cancer Survivor Month: E.J.’s story
Miami University student E.J. Coulas has been in remission for 12 years after battling an aggressive type of leukemia. The disease struck before he was old enough to understand it. He was in treatment for more than 3 years, yet he says his memories are mostly positive. “When I was a kid, I didn’t think […]
Crohn’s patient family feels comforted in hospital’s post-COVID reopening
Chronic illnesses didn’t take a breather during the stay-at-home orders. Just ask Kenny Day, who’s battling Crohn’s Disease. Kenny, 12, of Struthers, and his parents made no fewer than 5 necessary visits to the Akron and Beeghly campuses while most of the state was under quarantine. Three were for overnight stays. “Nobody wants to be […]
Hayden returns to her dirtbike after major break in arm
Wind rushing by, motor roaring, Hayden Mesler, 13, zoomed along on her dirt bike. The teen has been riding since pre-k, and the spring weather called for a spin on her bike. Before she knew it, her speed had gotten away from her and she was unable to stop quickly. She laid the bike down […]
Transgender teen in Akron Children’s program hopes her story helps others
Florence Montecalvo came to terms with her gender identity after she was diagnosed with bone cancer in 7th grade. She underwent 18 rounds of chemotherapy and had 3 ribs removed. She identified as a gay man at that time, and after cancer came to realize she was not comfortable being a male. “The cancer for […]
Running with Lucas is a gift that keeps on giving
Dads teach us lots of things about life like how to work hard or support the ‘right’ sports teams. For one local dad, Brent Ransom, his son, Lucas, also teaches him a lot about life, especially how to push through obstacles. Last year, Lucas became the first hero patient to participate in the FirstEnergy Akron […]
