Angel and her dad
My story is now 37 years in the making. My mother had given birth to 4 babies from 2 marriages and all died within 6 weeks of age from what she was told was S.I.D.S.
When she found out she was pregnant for the fifth time, she was sent to Dr. Benfield to make sure I lived. Once I was born,I was taken to Akron Children’s NICU where I stayed for 3 months undergoing tests. Because each time I neared the next month, my breathing would stop and I needed to be moved.
I was taken on rounds with Dr. Benfield each day. At 3 months, I was sent home with an apnea monitor.
Angel and Phoenix
Dr. Benfield called each morning to check on me, making sure I was okay before he began.
Because of Dr. Benfield and his caring staff, I am alive today and the mom of a beautiful daughter named Phoenix, who sees multiple doctors at Akron Children’s.
As part of our year-long anniversary celebration, well be 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.