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Off and running for our 125th anniversary (GALLERY)

Some in the group snuck off to our boss’ house for a bonus selfie.

As the hospital celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2015, the public relations department has been encouraging families and staff alike to share their stories – new and old related to their experiences with Akron Childrens. We also thought it might be a nice idea for us to create and share some memories as well.

After some discussion, myself and other members of the department decided to run/bike/drive to several of the large, metal, flower sculptures commissioned to celebrate our anniversary. Created by Judith Spater and sculptor Stephen Canneto, 25 of these sculptures were placed around the Greater Akron area.

Our journey began at the Virginia Bluebell in Lock 3 Park and continued past other flowers in downtown Akron and the near west side of the city, including sculptures located at our main campus, the Akron Urban League and the Akron Zoo.

Daylily at the Akron Urban League.

Running through the neighborhoods that are home to the flowers solidified for me how integral the hospital is to the greater Akron community, said Kelly Daw, our intranet administrator. Having been a part of getting them delivered to their new homes, it was a great experience to see how they have become a part of the parks and businesses in our community – and embraced by the people that see them every day.

We eventually made it to the Highland Square area, where we were greeted by Jim King, co-owner of Angel Falls coffee, whose garden patch is home to one of our Deptford Pinks. He made quite an impression on our group.

I particularly enjoyed talking to employees at the various host sites,” said senior public relations specialist Leslee Fetterhoff. “They took pride in displaying the artwork for our community to enjoy.

King had woven the flower into the floral display next to his shop.

Deptford Pink at Angel Falls Coffee.

He also invited us in for cold drinks, added Holly Pupino, a media relations specialist for Childrens. This run provided us with a nice reminder of the friendly nature of our community.

The group split at this point, with some making a stop at Swensons, then meeting up again at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens for our final floral selfie of the afternoon.

After I finally caught my breath and my sweat dried, I was thankful for the challenge, said Fetterhoff. It was definitely an afternoon to remember.

I have to agree with Leslee. What a blast. I really enjoy the Akron area and am proud to help with the hospitals mission to keep kids and families healthy and happy. I also like to run so it was nice to have an excuse to do that as well.

So now you have your excuse. Take a look at the locations and visit a flower or two near you. Maybe youll have your own story to tell about a friendly shop owner. Wed like to hear from you at publicrelations@akronchildrens.org.

NOTE: Scroll over each image for a description. Click on the image to enlarge.

125th flower run
Deptford Pink at Angel Falls Coffee.

125th flower run
Daylily at the Akron Urban League.

125th flower run
Red Trillium at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens.

125th flower run
Trout Lily at Akron Children's Hospital.

125th flower run
Blue Flag Iris at Canal Park.

125th flower run
Common Sunflower at Swenson's.

125th flower run
New England Aster at the Akron Zoo.

125th flower run
Virginia Bluebell at Lock 3 Park.

Photo Gallery: Wall of Hope offers families inspiration during difficult times

Born at 29 weeks, 1-year-old Spencer and Sawyer both spent 55 days in the NICU. Their prematurity was due to twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome.

NOTE: Scroll to the bottom to view the photo gallery. Click on the image to enlarge.

When your infant resides in a neonatal intensive care unit, your mind has a tendency to race ahead to the future. Will my child survive? And if he does, will he have developmental delays and physical handicaps?

The new 2-story Womens Board of Childrens Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit has a lot of features to help make a familys stay more comfortable, including spacious private rooms. About the only thing it doesnt have is a crystal ball for fortune telling.

The Wertz family checks out their twins’ Wall of Hope display.

The closest thing to clairvoyance here is the Wall of Hope, which offers parents who are going through a stressful and scary time a glimpse into the lives of other NICU residents who have graduated from the unit.

The Wall of Hope highlights the stories of 25 children in the 6th and 7th floor lobbies of Akron Childrens Kay Jewelers Pavilion.

As patient families enter the unit, theyre greeted by the faces of these NICU graduates whove faced everything from extreme prematurity and multiple births to birth defects such as spina bifida.

Born at 28 weeks, NICU grads Daniel and David love computers and playing Minecraft.

NICU grads Daniel and David, now 14, were born at 28 weeks.

Many of the families of these NICU grads came together May 3 to celebrate each other and see the wall in person. They all received a framed copy of their childrens pictures and the satisfaction of knowing their stories will comfort many families for years to come.

Thank you for being the folks who share their stories with our patient families, NICU family coordinator Marybeth Fry told the 100-plus attendees. Your stories will inspire other patient families when they need it most, because you are the epitome of strength and courage.

Makita Gulley was excited to have her daughter Amina, now 17 months old, included in the Wall of Hope. Amina was born at 26 weeks gestation, weighing only 2 lbs., 1 oz.

During the times Amina was throwing us for a few loops, Gulley would set her sights on a bulletin board that hung in a central area in the former NICU. It was a place where all the NICU graduates pictures were posted, sent in by grateful parents who were anxious to show the nurses and doctors how great their kids were doing.

Born at 26 weeks weighing 2 lbs., Amina spent 61 days in the NICU.

Some pictures showed young adults in mortar boards clutching diplomas. Others were of children riding 2-wheelers. All of them were comforting.

Born at 26 weeks, 1-year-old Amina Gulley loves cuddling and snuggling, doing pageants and dancing.

Amina loves cuddling and snuggling.

It gives you a great sense of hope to see these kids and they are just like a regular, typical child, said Gulley. When you see how these babies grow and flourish, thanks to the efforts of all these great doctors and nurses, you realize it takes a village to raise a child. You realize there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

The Wall of Hope is a bigger and better forum than the old crowded bulletin board. It contains more information and details for hungry parents to devour at a time when they need to be sustained.

Here, parents facing a new diagnosis can find a mentor someone who understands exactly their current situation.

Best of all, the Wall of Hope offers insight into what the future may hold. Some of the participants boast black belts in karate. Others like to belt out Frozen songs at the top of their lungs.

By sharing their journeys, all of them offer hope and inspiration.

NOTE: Scroll over each image for a description. Click on the image to enlarge.

Spicocchi quintuplet Ellie loves Tinkerbell and arts and crafts.

Spicocchi quintuplet Enzo spent 118 days in the NICU. He loves John Deere tractors, 4-wheelers and vacuum cleaners, the color blue, and being outdoors.

Spicocchi quintuplet Enzo, now 4 1/2 years old, was born at 24 weeks, weighing 1 lb., 15 oz. He was the biggest of the quints.

Spicocchi quintuplet Ilah spent 102 days in the NICU. She loves Cinderella and helping mommy clean.

Born at 24 weeks weighing 1 lb., 11 oz., Spicocchi quintuplet Ellie spent 102 days in the NICU.

Spicocchi quintuplet Paige spent 115 days in the NICU. She loves the color purple, playing with dolls, and dressing up as Sofia the First.

Spicocchi quintuplet Gia spent 99 days in the NICU. She loves the color green, cupcakes, watching movies and spending time with Aunt Tanny.

The Spicocchi quintuplets, now 4 1/2 years old, were born at 24 weeks.

14-year-old Daniel and David Hornik are featured on the wall of hope, along with their sister, Sara, who passed away at 22 days old. They both spent 93 days in the NICU.

Born at 28 weeks, NICU grads Daniel and David love computers and playing Minecraft.

22-year-old Christopher was born at 23 weeks with cerebral palsy and retinopathy of prematurity, which caused blindness. He spent 17 weeks in the NICU. He has a black belt in karate and loves music, animals and helping around the house.

NICU grad Zoey, 6, loves Disney's Frozen, singing and dancing, and playing with her friends and American Girl doll.

Born at 26 weeks weighing 2 lbs., Amina spent 61 days in the NICU.

Oaklynn and Barrett Withrow were born at 27 weeks. Oaklynn, who spent 76 days in the NICU, loves walking, climbing, dancing and interacting with people. Barrett, who spent 71 days in the NICU, loves to cuddle, clap his hands and play with other kids.

Born at 37 weeks, 9-year-old Austin (boy on left) spent 81 days in the NICU. He loves sports, playing video games, going on vacation, and playing with his dogs Brutus and Clover.

Born at 39 weeks with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia, 7 1/2-year-old Blake (being held by his father) spent 60 days in the NICU. He loves basketball, baseball, golf, playing on his iPad, and reading books.

Born at 28 weeks at 2 lbs., 5 oz., Eron spent 152 days in the NICU. The 3 year old loves the outdoors, animals, music, and playing with his cars.

Jordan Pollock was born with spina bifida. He's celebrating his Wall of Hope display with his mom, Megs, dad, Randy, and little sister, Gabriella.

The new Kay Jewelers Pavilion features large photographs throughout, including this one of NICU grads Gavin and Matthew Jenkins, who are standing in front of it with their parents Kelly and Mike.

Born at 29 weeks, 1-year-old Spencer and Sawyer both spent 55 days in the NICU. Their prematurity was due to twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome.

Born at 28 weeks at 1 lb., 13 oz., 5-year-old Rylee spent 56 days in the NICU. She loves rainbows, her pink dog Cupcake, playing sports, and spending time with her family.

NICU grad Abigail was born at 25 weeks weighing 2 lbs., 1 oz. The 1 year old had a twin brother, Brady, who passed away at 96 days old. Both are recognized on the Wall of Hope.

NICU family care coordinator, Marybeth Fry, presents the Tomblin family with a framed copy of Zoey's Wall of Hope picture.

Born at 25 weeks at 1 lb., 11 oz., 6-year-old Zoey spent 101 days in the NICU.

Family care coordinator, Marybeth Fry, gives 5-year-old Rylee a framed copy of her Wall of Hope picture.

Neonatal respiratory therapist Kim Firestone gives 10-year-old Sophia a framed copy of her Wall of Hope picture.

3-year-old Tailyn spent 222 days in the NICU after she was born at 38 weeks with heart defects, respiratory failure, and cleft lip and palate. She loves being outdoors on the farm, riding her pony and watching basketball.

Now 3 years old, Tailyn Dailey (on left) and Bekah Plant (on right) spent time as roommates in the old NICU. They're on the Wall of Hope together.

Triplets Dominic, Samantha and Paige Dampier were born at 26 weeks. Dominic loves playing with action figures and cars, and his older brothers. Samantha loves playing dress-up, building puzzles and reading. Paige loves singing and dancing and playing with dolls.

NICU family care coordinator, Marybeth Fry, presents the Dampier triplets with a framed copy of their Wall of Hope picture. Dominic spent 3 1/2 months in the NICU, Samantha spent 2 1/2 months, and Paige spent 3 months.

Born at 25 weeks at 2 lbs., 1 oz., Abigail Fink spent 105 days in the NICU.

Bekah Plant, 3, spent 10 weeks in the NICU after she was born at 35 weeks with a heart defect and underdeveloped lungs. She loves the color pink, strawberries, books and playing chase with her daddy, Chris, and little brother, Sam.

Abigail Fink, age 1, loves chasing her dog, eating puffs, and pushing her walk-behind toys.

Families of NICU grads featured on the Wall of Hope gathered to celebrate each other and see the display in person.

Born at 26 weeks, 17-month-old Amina Gulley loves cuddling and snuggling, doing pageants and dancing.

The Wertz family checks out their twins' Wall of Hope display.

Sophia, 10, spent 78 days in the NICU.

Born at 28 weeks weighing 2 lbs., 1 oz., Sophia, 10, loves reading books, drawing, playing softball, snuggling with her kitties, and playing with her American Girl dolls.

Family care coordinator Marybeth Fry stands with her daughter, Sophia, who spent 78 days in the NICU, and her family in front of Sophia's Wall of Hope display.

Now 4 years old, Kasen and Kohyn Wertz were born at 27 weeks. Kasen loves super heroes, running and bouncing, and giving hugs. Kohyn loves being a ballerina, playing with her dolls and anything artsy.

As part of our year-long anniversary celebration, were telling the story of Akron Childrens through the eyes of past and present employees, doctors, donors, volunteers and patient families. We encourage you to share your own memories and stories about us.

Photo Gallery: Opening day for Kay Jewelers Pavilion

After hundreds of hours of planning and several simulated trips, 39 infants were moved to our new NICU on May 5.

The opening of Akron Children’s Hospital’s Kay Jewelers Pavilion on May 5 represented the latest expansion of what’s considered the fastest growing children’s hospital in the nation, and continued a 125-year tradition of providing top-notch, family-centered care to children and teens throughout northern Ohio.

The GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center was the first to open with a patient family arriving at 6:30 a.m. The surgery team handled 10 surgeries on the inaugural day.

The spacious new ER opened at 7:30 a.m., and handled about a dozen patients in the first 2 hours, including our first transport from Wadsworth EMS within 5 minutes of opening.

At 8:15 a.m., special transport teams began moving 39 tiny babies 600 feet into their new homes in the Women’s Board of Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

We captured these historic milestone events throughout the day. We hope you enjoy.

NOTE: Scroll over each image for a description. Click on the image to enlarge.

First ER patient
The opening of Kay Jewelers Pavilion generated a lot of media attention as reporters captured the NICU move and first ER patients, including 8-month-old Anna.

GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center
One of the advantages of our new surgery center is bedside registration in 1 of 8 private pre-operative rooms.

First surgery patient
Child life specialist Alisa Mills carries Pierson back to OR 3 for his ear tube surgery.

First surgery patient
Dr. Benson examines 2-year-old Declan, of Kent, before surgery as his dad holds hims.

First surgery patient
Dr. Mitchell, an anesthesiologist, answers questions from Pierson's mom, Erica, before surgery.

First surgery patient
Pierson is in good hands with the surgical nurses.

First surgery patient
The surgery team in our GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center performed 10 procedures on our inaugural day.

First surgery patient
A quick morning in and out of our new outpatient surgery center for Pierson and his parents.

First ER patient
Dr. Sarah Berrine examines 8-year-old Kierra, one of the first patients in our new ER.

NICU move
Each of the tiny babies wore matching onesies imprinted with "precious cargo" for their move into the new NICU.

NICU move
The private rooms of our new NICU aid in bonding, nursing and helping families have an understanding of what it will be like to care for their babies once they go home.

NICU move
The NICU babies ranged in age from 1 day to 13 months, with 11 weeks old being the average.

NICU move
They weren't supposed to be born yet, but 39 tiny babies took an amazing journey May 5 - just a few days before what will certainly be a memorable Mother's Day for their families.

NICU move
Loved ones followed the teams transported their little ones to their new rooms.

NICU move
After hundreds of hours of planning and several simulated trips, 39 infants were moved to our new NICU on May 5.

NICU move
It took about 8 hours to move all 39 babies from the old NICU to the new one.

NICU move
Most of the babies who moved into our new NICU were less than a week old.

NICU move
On move day, each baby received a full assessment by a range of clinicians to be approved for transfer.

NICU move
The NICU babies who moved into the new unit weighed between 2 lbs., 11 oz., to 18 lbs., 1 oz., with an average weight of 6 lbs., 13 oz.

NICU move
The move of 39 fragile babies into the new NICU required about 100 staff members from several departments.

NICU move
On this historic moving day, Dr. Anand Kantak, neonatology director, wears a "throwback" shirt from the opening of the hospital's Centennial Building in 1993.

First surgery patient
Kay comforts her son, Declan, before his surgery.

First surgery patient
Kate holds Luca while he's examined before his eye surgery.

First ER patient
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First ER patient
8-year-old Kierra, of Akron, was one of the first patients of our new ER, which is twice as large as the old one.

Dr. Milo and a surgery nurse check the new electronic patient status board before beginning surgery.

First surgery patient
Grandma bounces Luca on her knee in a private pre-op room.

First surgery patient
Mom, Kate, carries Luca into the pre-op area after checking in at the registration desk.

First EMS - Wadsworth
Our new ER received the first transport just as the transition from the old ER to the new occurred at 7:30 a.m. May 5. The

First surgery patient
After his ear tube surgery, Pierson sleeps in the comfort of his mother's arms in a private recovery room in our new GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center.

First surgery patient
With a history of ear infections, 13-month-old Pierson received ear tubes from Dr. Albert in our new GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center.

First surgery patient
As the first patient family in our new GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center, Erica Spice, of Copley, kisses and comforts her 13-month-old son, Pierson in a private pre-op room.

First surgery patient
Pierson is a brave boy as he waits for surgery in our GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center.

First surgery patient
Medical assistant Katee Seals gives the first patient of our new outpatient surgery center an ID bracelet.

First surgery patient
Child life specialist Alisa Mills lets Declan cruise around the pre-op unit with his mom, Erica, by his side.

First surgery patient
11-month-old Luca, of Vienna, hangs with his grandma and mom, Kate, in a pre-op room before his eye surgery.

First surgery patient
Pierson's dad, Nathan, comforts him before surgery.

First surgery patient
Kate and Luca, of Vienna, await his eye surgery in our new GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center.

First surgery patient
Nurse shows Pierson the OR before they enter.

First surgery patient
Dr. Milo meets with Declan and his mom, Kay, before his surgery. Declan was the very first patient to go back to an OR.

First surgery patient
Pierson snuggles with his mommy in a private pre-op room before his ear tube surgery.

Photo Gallery: Kay Jewelers Pavilion Community Grand Opening Celebration

A good time was had by all at our Kay Jewelers Pavilion community grand opening event last Sunday.

Thousands of area residents got a sneak peek of the new medical building with guided tours of the new ER, GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center, special delivery unit for high-risk newborns, and the Women’s Board of Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

In the spirit of celebrating through the eyes of a child, the event featured giant board games and giveaways, crafts, a photo booth, face painting, the Bubble Lady, and high-energy entertainment by local kids. (Watch a highlight video of the event.)

NOTE: Scroll over each image for a description. Click on the image to enlarge.

Community Grand Opening
Grand opening festivities featured fun activities for all ages - music, dancing, face painting and games

Community Grand Opening
Bubble show

Community Grand Opening
Every family received a selfie stick and were encouraged to take selfies and share on social media

Community Grand Opening
It wouldn't be an Akron Children's party without the lovable Doggie Brigade

Community Grand Opening
Pop Fusion invited kids to join them on the main stage

Community Grand Opening
Tours of the new ER, outpatient surgery center, special delivery unit and NICU were guided by the employees who helped design them

Community Grand Opening
NICU grad cruises through the park

Community Grand Opening
Pop Fusion got the young crowds going

Community Grand Opening
14-month-old NICU grad, Jonathan, cruises through the park with his dad

Community Grand Opening
The day was filled with crafts, face painting, games and more

Community Grand Opening
The photo booth was a popular attraction in the main tent

Community Grand Opening
Kids enjoyed playing the giant checkers game

Community Grand Opening
Kids enjoyed playing the giant Tic Tac Toe game

Community Grand Opening
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Community Grand Opening
Lauren Moses, a 7th grader at Tallmadge Middle School. poses with her painting, titled "A Day at the Pond."

Community Grand Opening
Families were excited to get a sneak peak inside Kay Jewelers Pavilion

Community Grand Opening
In keeping with the backyard theme of the building, festivities included entertainers in the form of frogs, bubble bees, flowers and fairies

Community Grand Opening
Even the children were excited to see the isolettes in the new NICU

Community Grand Opening
In keeping with the backyard theme of Kay Jewelers Pavilion, the interactive video wall displays dazzled volunteers, entertainers and families alike as an animal, bird or frog appeared on screen

Community Grand Opening
Employee teams who helped design the space guided the tours on each floor

Community Grand Opening
ER tour

Community Grand Opening
Families created artwork for the Mosaic Project. Their artwork will join thousands of pieces created by our patients, employees and community members to form a larger mural commemorating the hospital's 125th anniversary.

Community Grand Opening
Snack boxes were provided to everyone

Community Grand Opening
Doggie Brigade volunteer and hospital CIO Tom Ogg shows Jack the raccoon on the interactive video wall display

Community Grand Opening
NICU grad Sarah Plant and her little brother, Sam, enjoy the view from one of the NICU rooms

Community Grand Opening
NICU grads Tailyn and Bekah are featured on the NICU Wall of Hope on the 6th floor

Community Grand Opening
Sculpture artist Virgil Villers created this colorful, whimsical piece, entitled "Circle of Friends," which is near the new FedEx Outdoor Amphitheater in front of Kay Jewelers Pavilion

Community Grand Opening
Hospital President and CEO Bill Considine and Akron City Councilwoman Margo Sommerville with patients who helped cut the ceremonial ribbon

Community Grand Opening
Summit Academy Steele Dragons perform on the main stage

Community Grand Opening
Attendees were impressed with the new high-tech OR lights, which adjust with a simple touch

Community Grand Opening
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Community Grand Opening
Families are touched by the NICU Wall of Hope of former NICU patients

Community Grand Opening
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Community Grand Opening
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Community Grand Opening
Families whose children are featured on the NICU Wall of Hope enjoy the chance to pose with their photos

Photo Gallery: Kay Jewelers Pavilion Employee Event

Pride, togetherness, awe, happy tears and even a few slobbery kisses from the Doggie Brigade were the order of the day as 4,000 employees and their families celebrated the grand opening of our new Kay Jewelers Pavilion on Saturday, April 25.

The afternoon event provided a sneak peek at the 7-story medical building that will officially open for patient care on May 5. You can also view the video from the employee event.

NOTE: Scroll over each image for a description. Click on the image to enlarge.

Employee Grand Opening
A view of the Murdough Family Lobby from the 3rd floor

Employee Grand Opening
Volunteers Karen Crowder, RN, and Nicole Childs, CST, gave tours of the GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center.

Employee Grand Opening
Kent State University nursing students are impressed with the CT scanner room, which is in the radiology suite in the new ER.

Employee Grand Opening
Executive Vice President Shawn Lyden

Employee Grand Opening
The ribbon-cutting ceremony included the employee ambassadors of the fundraising campaign. Pictured in first row: Jim Madden, Bill Considine and Dina Dornack. Pictured in second row: Kathy McLaughlin, RN, Kristy Stokey, RN, Vicki Parisi, Kim Firestone, Grace Wakulchik and Lin Gentile.

Employee Grand Opening
Vicki Parisi, director of volunteer services, and Kim Firestone, neonatal respiratory outreach coordinator, helped cut the ribbon at the employee grand opening.

Employee Grand Opening
Families enjoyed touring the new 27,898 sq. ft. ER.

Employee Grand Opening
Festivities featured fun activities for all ages - music, dancing, face painting and games.

Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
Face painting was a popular activity

Employee Grand Opening
Each employee family received a selfie stick and were encouraged to take selfies and share on social media

Employee Grand Opening
Hospital President and CEO Bill Considine greets employees

Employee Grand Opening
Volunteer Mary Douglas helps a child play a life-sized, Checkers game

Employee Grand Opening
The 4-hour employee event featured lots of backyard-themed entertainment

Employee Grand Opening
In keeping with the backyard theme of Kay Jewelers Pavilion, the interactive video wall displays dazzled passersby as an animal, bird or frog appeared.

Employee Grand Opening
Everyone received a free boxed lunch from Totally Cooked.

Employee Grand Opening
Payroll manager Lisa LaRocca and her sons Mario and Dominic stop for a photo op at the photo booth.

Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
The bubble show captured the attention of all who passed by.

Employee Grand Opening
It wouldn't be a party without the Doggie Brigade.

Employee Grand Opening
Employees were able to check out the new NICU rooms and isolettes.

Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
Hospital President and CEO Bill Considine ready for a giant ribbon-cutting

Employee Grand Opening
Becky Considine enjoys the ribbon-cutting ceremony

Employee Grand Opening
Sherry Valentine, Pam Baker and Beth Carr played pivotal roles in the purposeful design of Kay Jewelers Pavilion.

Employee Grand Opening
A selfie stick was given to each employee.

Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
GOJO Outpatient Surgery Center

Employee Grand Opening
Families enjoyed the photo booth

Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
Bubble lady

Employee Grand Opening
The grand opening celebration featured fun activities such as crafts.

Employee Grand Opening
Volunteers at the craft table

Employee Grand Opening
Bubble lady

Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
Beautiful hibiscus trees lined the main entrance walkway.

Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
L-R: Chief Nursing Officer Lisa Aurilio, Chief Medical Officer Rob McGregor, Executive VP Shawn Lyden, and President and CEO Bill Considine.

Employee Grand Opening
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Employee Grand Opening
Tours of the new floors were guided by the employee teams who helped design them.

Employee Grand Opening
Patient Advocate Lauren Chenault attended the event with her brother, Justin, and nephews Asim and Siddiq.

Employee Grand Opening
Tours included a trip to the helipad to see Air Bear.

Employee Grand Opening
Kids enjoyed playing a giant game of Operation.

Employee Grand Opening
Engineering Supervisor Nick Austin and his wife, Heather, along with their kids created original artwork for the Mosaic Project. Their artwork will join thousands of pieces created by our patients, community members and supporters to form a larger mural commemorating the hospital's 125th anniversary.

Employee Grand Opening
Dr. Mark Adamczyk and his son capture the memories with their selfie stick.

Employee Grand Opening
Tours of the NICU showcased the private rooms, which included a bathroom and sleep sofa for 1 parent

Photo gallery: Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP Event

More than 300 business leaders, hospital executives, donors and legislators attended the VIP grand opening event and ribbon cutting on April 23 for the Kay Jewelers Pavilion.

The event highlighted the building’s backyard theme and featured local children’s performers, including Dance Unlimited, the hospital’s therapeutic dance program for children with special needs. You can also watch the highlight video from the VIP event.

NOTE: Scroll over each image for a description. Click on the image to enlarge.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Like the building, the event's food featured a backyard theme.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Row 1 (L-R) The Spicocchi Quintuplets; Row 2 (L-R) Vince Spicocchi and Grady Spicocchi; Row 3 (L-R) Hospital chaplains Matt Tweedle and Karen Ballard, hospital COO Grace Wakulchik, Board Chairman Bob Tracucco, VP of Construction & Support Services Lin Gentile, Aimee Spicocchi, Taylor Spicocchi, Akron Children's President & CEO Bill Considine, Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor and Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic each participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Neonatologist Jennifer Grow and her husband, Gregory Hobe

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
VIP Grand Opening Celebration

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
The ribbon featured paper dolls decorated by patients, families and staff members.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Bill Considine greets Tom Murdough of the Murdough Family Foundation, who donated $1million to name the lobby.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
(L-R) Lyn Bober, Kristen Catania, Paul Catania and Kara Lewis

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Dance Unlimited performed before the ribbon cutting presentation

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
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Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Akron Children's COO Grace Wakulchick and VP Lin Gentile gave remarks during the presentation and ribbon cutting

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Hudson High School Jazz Combo performed on the main stage after the ribbon cutting ceremony

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Western Reserve Academy 7-String Orchestra

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Crowds mingled in the Murdough Family Lobby

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
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Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
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Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
ER physicians Maria Ramundo and Esther Lutes with VP of Quality and Patient Safety Mike Bird

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
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Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Attendees peer at the Wall of Hope display of NICU grads while an ensemble from Miller South performs

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Hospital President and CEO Bill Considine thanks the dancers for performing

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
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Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
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Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Stephen Powell and his wife with Ray Walker and Steve Higgs

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
State representative Emilia Sykes holds the proclamation for Kay Jewelers Pavilion with her husband, Vernon, and Akron Children's government relations director Charlie Solley by her side

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Karen Nackes, Dr. Bob and Rochelle Stone and hospital VP Linda Heston enjoy watching Dance Unlimited perform

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Emily Murthy and Peggy Porter Wagner

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Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Western Reserve Academy 7-String Orchestra

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
The new building features an interactive wall for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Guests had the opportunity to tour the building.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
The helipad was a popular tour destination with AirBear and sweeping views of the Akron skyline

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Guests received a first peek at the new, private NICU rooms.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
A view of the new Kay Jewelers Pavilion from the third floor.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Guests enjoyed the entertainment on the main stage and throughout the building.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Bill Considine joined Dance Unlimited during their grand finale.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Guests enjoyed Dance Unlimited performance.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Dance Unlimited really rocked the house at the VIP leading up to the presentation and ribbon cutting.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Bill Considine congratulates the performers from Dance Unlimited, a hospital-based dance group for children with special needs

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Guests enjoyed the entertainment and food in the new Murdough Family Lobby.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
The photo booth was a big hit.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
Hospital president and CEO Bill Considine jokes he may get an unplanned hair cut before the ribbon cutting from Spicocchi quints who are former NICU patients.

Kay Jewelers Pavilion VIP event
The Spicocchi quintuplets help cut the ribbon alongside hospital president and CEO Bill Considine, hospital VP Lin Gentile, board chairman Bob Trabucco and Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor.

Photo Gallery: Flower sculptures commemorate 125th anniversary

Look for these eye-popping, larger-than-life flower sculptures throughout the greater Akron area. Created by artists Stephen Canneto and Judith Spater, the vibrant, metal works of art are a gift to the community for supporting us during our 125-year history. A commemorative plaque is displayed in each 320-lb. concrete base, which represents the forest floor with hidden toads, snails, newts and other creatures.

We hope you enjoy. And when you see them around town, be sure to share photos of them and tag us at @AkronChildrens.

NOTE: Scroll over each image for the location and sculpture details. Click on the image to enlarge.

Black-Eyed Susan
The Black-Eyed Susan sculpture stands tall at 7 ft., 6 in. You can find this stunning work of art at Luigi's Restaurant and Derby Downs in Akron.

Bluebell
This fun, 6 ft.-tall Virginia Bluebell sculpture is located at Lock 3 in downtown Akron.

Blue Flag Iris
This beautiful Blue Flag Iris sculpture stands tall at 7 ft., 5 in. at Canal Park on S. Main Street

Sunflower
You can find this 8 ft., 3 in., eye-popping Common Sunflower sculpture at Swensons on S. Hawkins Street in Akron as well as LifeCenter Plus on Darrow Road in Hudson.

Daylily
A gorgeous 7 ft., 4 in., Daylily sculpture stands tall at First & Main in Hudson as well as the Akron Urban League on Vernon Odom Blvd.

Deptford Pink
The 7 ft. tall Deptford Pink sculpture is located at Angel Falls Coffee in Highland Square, Akron.

Green-Headed Coneflower
The bright yellow Green-Headed Coneflower sculpture stands tall at downtown Wadsworth.

Lesser Celandine
The 6 ft., 6 in., Lesser Celandine sculpture greets residents and families at the City of Green YMCA.

New England Aster
This New England Aster sculpture stands tall at 8 ft., 3 in. at the Akron Zoo and the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm.

Purple Coneflower
You can find a bright Purple Coneflower sculpture in the Village of Peninsula and at the John S. Knight Center in downtown Akron.

Round-Lobbed Hepatica
This fun Round-Lobbed Hepatica sculpture greets families at Boettler Park in Green.

Swamp Rose
The eye-popping, 7 ft.-tall Swamp Rose sculpture greets shoppers at the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.

Tiger Lily
A 7 ft., 6 in., Tiger Lily sculpture stands tall on E. Market Street in downtown Akron and on E. Erie Street in downtown Kent.

Red Trillium
You can find a beautiful Red Trillium sculpture at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens on N. Portage Path and EJ Thomas Hall on Hill Street.

Trout Lily
This one-of-a-kind Trout Lily sculpture greets patient families, staff and visitors at Akron Children's Hospital.

Blue Violet
The 4 ft., 8 in., Common Blue Violet sculpture greets members of Twinsburg Fitness Center.

Yellow Flag Iris
The stunning, 7 ft., 5 in., Yellow Flag Iris sculpture greets visitors at the Akron-Summit County Library on S. High Street.

Yellow Wood Sorrel
You can find the 4 ft., Common Yellow Wood Sorrel sculpture at the Aurora Farms Outlet.

Photos: April showers bring metal flowers

We’re commemorating our 125th anniversary with 25 colorful, giant flower sculptures around northeast Ohio. These beautiful blooms honor all the children and families we’ve served since 1890.

The first batch of eye-popping, metal sculptures sprouted up around greater Akron on April 9, with the rest taking bloom on April 16, 17 and 20. (View a list of sculpture locations.)

This gorgeous New England Aster greets visitors at the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm on Smith Road in Akron.

At 8 ft, 3 in, this New England Aster stands tall at the Summit County Metro Parks' Nature Realm.

This New England Aster was the last flower sculpture to be installed. It greets visitors at the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm.

Artists Judith Spater and Stephen Canneto stand proudly next to the New England Aster at the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm.

Artist Stephen Canneto puts the finishing touches on the New England Aster at the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm.

The bright yellow Trout Lily stands tall in Perkins Square Park at Akron Children's Hospital.

The 7 ft.-5 in. Yellow Flag Iris greets visitors inside the Akron-Summit County Library.

Visitors to the Akron-Summit County Library are greeted by a beautiful Yellow Flag Iris.

Yellow Flag Iris at Akron-Summit County Library

This 7 ft.-6 in. Black-Eyed Susan sculpture stands tall outside of Luigi's Restaurant at 105 N. Main St., Akron.

This larger-than-life Black-Eyed Susan sculpture greets patrons at the popular Luigi's Restaurant at 105 N. Main St. in Akron.

This 7 ft.-6 in. Black-Eyed Susan sculpture stands tall outside of Luigi's Restaurant at 105 N. Main St., Akron.

This stunning Swamp Rose sculpture is located at the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, 27 Ridge St. in Akron.

This eye-popping, 7 ft. Swamp Rose sculpture greets visitors at the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad stop at 27 Ridge St. in Akron.

The 7 ft. Deptford Pink sculpture stands tall at Angel's Falls Coffee in Highland Square.

This beautiful Deptford Pink Sculpture is located at Angel's Falls Coffee, 792 W. Market St., in Highland Square.

You can find this 6 ft. Red Trillium sculpture on the grounds of Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens at 714 N. Portage Path in Akron.

This 8 ft.-3 in., Common Sunflower sculpture stands tall at the Swensons at 40 S. Hawkins St. in Akron.

The Green-Headed Coneflower Sculpture is located at 102 N. Main St. in Wadsworth.

The Green-Headed Coneflower sculpture stands tall at 7 ft. in downtown Wadsworth.

The Green-Headed Coneflower is located at 102 N. Main St. in Wadsworth.

The eye-popping Green-Headed Coneflower greets passersby on North Main Street in Wadsworth.

The Green-Headed Coneflower sculpture stands tall at 7 ft. in downtown Wadsworth.

The Lesser Celandine sculpture blooms outside the City of Green YMCA

Lesser Celandine greets visitors to the City of Green YMCA on Massillon Road.

Blue Flag Iris sculpture stands tall in front of Canal Park

Andrew's Moving & Storage Crew take the Blue Flag Iris sculpture to its destination in front of Canal Place in downtown Akron

Andrew's Moving & Storage crew unloads the Daylily sculpture at the Akron Urban League

Artist Stephen Canneto arranges the Daylily sculpture at the Akron Urban League

Daylily sculpture outside of the Akron Urban League

Andrew's Moving & Storage crew unloads the Daylily sculpture at the Akron Urban League

Daylily sculpture outside of the Akron Urban League

Artist Stephen Canneto with the Red Trillium sculpture outside E.J. Thomas Hall on the University of Akron campus

Red Trillium outside E.J. Thomas Hall on the University of Akron campus

Artist Stephen Canneto arranges the Tiger Lily sculpture on E. Market Street in downtown Akron.

Artists Stephen Canneto and Judith Spater with the Tiger Lily on E. Market Street.

Stephen Canneto helps arrange the Tiger Lily sculpture on E. Market Street next to Musica and Crave.

Artists Judith Spater and Stephen Canneto interact with the Virginia Bluebell at Lock 3 in downtown Akron.

Andrew's Moving & Storage Company unload the Virginia Bluebell at Lock 3.

Our Common Blue Violet sculpture greets members of the Twinsburg Fitness Center on Ravenna Road.

You can find our Common Blue Violet sculpture standing outside the Twinsburg Fitness Center.

Our Common Blue Violet sculpture greets members of the Twinsburg Fitness Center on Ravenna Road.

You can find our Round-Lobbed Hepatica sculpture at Boettler Park in Green.

This fun and colorful Round-Lobbed Hepatica sculpture greets families enjoying Boettler Park in Green.

You can find our Round-Lobbed Hepatica sculpture at Boettler Park in Green.

You can find this eye-popping Tiger Lily sculpture on E. Erie Street in downtown Kent.

This stunning Tiger Lily sculpture stands tall on E. Erie Street in downtown Kent.

Our colorful Tiger Lily sculpture stands tall at nearly 8 ft. in downtown Kent.

The blossoms of our Tiger Lily sculpture are a welcome sight of spring in downtown Kent.

Artists Judith Spater and Stephen Canneto with the Trout Lily flower after installation at Akron Children's.

Artists Stephen Canneto places the head of the Trout Lily flower.

Black Eyed Susan at Derby Downs
BlackEyedSusanDerbyDowns

Black Eyed Susan at Derby Downs
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Black Eyed Susan at Derby Downs

Black Eyed Susan at Derby Downs
The 6-ft Black -Eyed Susan sculpture stands tall at Derby Downs in Akron.

Daylily at First and Main
The 7 ft, 4 in. Daylily greets families at First and Main in Hudson.

Purple Coneflower in Peninsula
PurpleConeflowerPeninsula

Purple Coneflower in Peninsula
The 7 ft. Purple Coneflower stands tall on Main Street in the Village of Peninsula.

Purple Coneflower in Peninsula
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Purple Coneflower in Peninsula
The 7 ft. Purple Coneflower stands tall on Main Street in the Village of Peninsula.

Common Sunflower at LifeCenter Plus
SunflowerLifecenterPlus

Common Sunflower at LifeCenter Plus
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This 8 ft, 3 in Common Sunflower greets families outside of LifeCenter Plus in Hudson.

Yellow Wood Sorrel at Aurora Farms
The 4 ft Common Yellow Wood Sorrel sculpture greets shoppers at Aurora Farms.

Photo gallery: #tbt Throwback Thursday

We started counting down to our 125th anniversary year in late August 2014 with Throwback Thursday – #tbt – on our Instagram, Facebook and Twitter channels. We hope you enjoy perusing this collection of #tbt images as much as we enjoyed creating them.

#TBT Ringling Brothers
When the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey circus used to parade through Peninsula on the way to the Coliseum, a stray clown or two always made their way to Akron Childrens.

#TBT Kids Are Number One Run
First held in 1984, the Kids Are Number One Run is a day of fun and fitness for local families. The race raises thousands of dollars each year for hospital programs.

#TBT Richard Dawson
Best known for hosting the game show Family Feud, actor Richard Dawson was family friendly during his visit to Akron Children's as a Soap Box Derby celeb.

#TBT Centennial expansion
Akron Childrens celebrated its 100th anniversary with the Centennial expansion, moving the hospitals front door across Buchtel Avenue and into Perkins Square Park.

#TBT Hydrotherapy Tub
When our regional burn center opened in 1978, Childrens was one of only two pediatric facilities with a center that treated both children and adults. The center featured hydrotherapy tubs to provide pain relief and treatment for burn patients.

#TBT Smiling Faces
125 years of smiling faces have greeted children and families as they arrived on their floor, including this nurse on the hospitals West wing, which was built in the 1940s and 1950s.

#TBT Bill Considine
In his 35 years as president and CEO of Akron Childrens Hospital, it appears there was at least one occasion when Bill Considine needed to take the bull by the horns

#TBT Nursing Dorm
Opened in 1970, the new nursing dorm provided students with safe, convenient accommodations and helped the hospital expand its nursing education program.

#TBT Iron Lung
Before the development of the polio vaccine, iron lungs allowed children stricken by the disease to breathe despite respiratory failure.

#TBT Petie the Pony
Since 1997, the return of spring heralds another season of visits from Petie the Pony, thought to be the only horse that visits patients at the bedside.

#TBT Laundry
Some pressing matters in the laundry department, circa 1920s. Akron Childrens has a long history of clean, pressed sheets.

#TBT Poison Prevention
In recognition of National Poison Prevention Week, were flashing back to the first poison control center at Akron Childrens Hospital, established in 1957.

#TBT Nurses, circa 1913
Great pediatric care is always in style. Members of the nursing staff at the Mary Day Nursery and Childrens Hospital, circa 1913.

#TBT Doggie Brigade
Kisses have been part of the fun from the early days of the Doggie Brigade, the second oldest dog visitation program in the country.

#TBT Bill & Becky 1968
Hospital president and CEO Bill Considine woos future wife Becky Krenrick at a University of Akron Greek week dance in 1968.

#TBT Captain Kangaroo
Long-time childrens show host Bob Captain Kangaroo Keeshan stopped by for a visit.

#TBT Bambino
Created in 1910, the della Robbia bambino inspired todays edition, first used in the '70s.

#TBT Circa 1940 Nurse
Nursing attire at @AkronChildrens, circa 1940. A favorite toy is always fashionable.

#TBT Music Therapy
Music therapist Shella Benson gives a young patient a chance to pluck the strings during an impromptu duet.

#TBT Bonanza
Hoss, Little Joe & Ben Cartwright took a break from the Ponderosa to visit a patient in 1964.

#TBT 1973 ED
Does this ED counter from 1973 look familiar to you?

#TBT Mary Day to Today
Since 1890, Akron Childrens has evolved into the largest pediatric healthcare system in northeast Ohio with about 80 locations.

#TBT NICU
We opened our first neonatal intensive care unit in 1970. In May 2015, our Akron NICU is moving into the new Kay Jewelers Pavilion.

#TBT Child Life 1979
Since we established our child life program in 1979, our child life specialists have been important members of the healthcare team.

#TBT Call a Nurse
For many years, our nurses and staff have just been a phone call away 24/7 to answer your questions and concerns.

#TBT Hospital in 1949
The hospitals appearance has changed dramatically in 125 years. This photo shows the front entrance on Bowery Street in 1949.

#TBT Ronald McDonald House
The Ronald McDonald House of Akron broke ground in 1984 for its current facility. This home away from home gives families a place to stay while their loved one is a patient at Akron Childrens.

#TBT 1st Tree Festival 1982
A crowd gathers for the Holiday Tree Festival in its inaugural year, 1982, at Quaker Square. The festival is an Akron tradition and one of our largest fundraisers.

#TBT Air Transport
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the Ohio National Guard transported critically-ill newborns via helicopter to Akron Children's. Today, patients are transported in our pediatric helicopter, Air Bear, the first of its kind in the state.

#TBT Muhammad Ali visits
In 1986, our patients were treated to a visit from famed boxer Muhammad Ali. The Champ spent hours signing autographs and posing for photos.

#TBT Darth Vader visits
Darth Vader may be the villain of a galaxy far, far away, but our kids were excited to receive Lukes fathers autograph when he visited the hospital in 1980.

#TBT Nurses in 1959
While a lot has changed about nursing since this photo was taken in 1959, one thing that has remained constant is the desire of nurses to learn and gain knowledge.

#TBT Doggie Brigade
Since 1992, our patients have been treated to visits from 4-legged friends in the Doggie Brigade. Here, Bumper snuggled up with a patient while making his rounds.

#TBT 1947 Polio
In 1947, polio cases pushed us beyond our capacity and we moved less severely affected patients next door to Grace Church so no patient was turned away.

#TBT Clown Visit 1967
Visiting patients is hard work, and sometimes, you just need to rest. This clown took a break with a patient back in 1967.