In July 2019, Melanie Tamulewicz took her 9-year-old daughter, Elle, in for what she thought would be a routine well visit with pediatrician Dr. Cheryl Markle. Instead of being sent on their way with a ‘see you next year,’ the Tamulewiczs left with a referral to one of Akron Children’s spine specialists. “When Dr. Markle […]
The catalyst for cutting-edge care How philanthropy can make an impact on research at Akron Children's Hospital
For Todd Ritzman, MD, pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Akron Children’s Hospital, helping patients achieve outcomes that were once never thought possible is one of the most rewarding aspects of his job. “The great part of being an orthopedic surgeon is watching a child with a broken bone or a congenital deformity enjoy childhood,” Dr. Ritzman […]
Halo traction therapy and spinal fusion surgery mean more ‘airtime’ for coaster enthusiast
For 14-year-old Matt Hill the news that he needed scoliosis surgery was far from welcome. It meant the rollercoaster aficionado had to keep two feet on the ground and sit out the already short Ohio coaster season last summer. A freshman at Hoover High School in Canton, Matt has been a platinum pass holder at […]
Jackson sophomore stands a little taller after spinal correction surgery
Jackson High School sophomore Logan Elliott has overcome many obstacles throughout his short 16 years. Born with club feet, amniotic banding syndrome in his hands and feet, and kyphosis (a spinal disorder where the forward bend of the spine is excessive), his first surgery at 6 months old fused the vertebrae in his spine to […]
Scoliosis surgery helps Alliance woman net college dream
Growing up, Zoey Peck was an active, sports-minded child who hit all the normal milestones everyone expected she would. A competitive volleyball player throughout her childhood and adolescence, Zoey set her sights on playing at the collegiate level – and she had the talent to do so. “Zoey played volleyball at Marlington High School in […]
New process for scoliosis surgery gives Chloe a reason to cheer
When she takes center stage, Chloe Mershimer is standing a little taller these days. Six months ago, the 15-year-old dancer and cheerleader from New Middletown had a spinal fusion to correct scoliosis or curvature of the spine. Now after making a full recovery, she’s 1 ¼ inches taller and able to fully resume the activities […]
