Where Is He Now: Miracle Child, Matt

By Matt Schonover

Life has dealt me some hard blows. Hard enough to break the strongest of people. I, however, refused to let them break me down.

When I was first born, I was transported to Akron Children’s Hospital where I spent ten weeks in the NICU and underwent my very first surgery by Dr. Robert Klein. It took 7 ½ hours to complete. I was born with a detached esophagus and a condition called Apert’s syndrome, which caused my fingers and toes to be fused together and abnormal growth to my skull. I’ve had 75 surgeries since birth, ranging from reconstruction of my hands, face and head to a most recent major surgery on my back.

Even with all that I’ve faced, I think I adapt well to many situations. I try to spread smiles to all I meet. Through my many surgeries and medical challenges, I maintain a positive attitude and stay involved in my favorite activities like cheering for the Cleveland Indians. I’ve been volunteering at Akron Children’s for ten years; I’ve logged more than 2,000 hours there working on projects like the “Have A Heart, Do Your Part” Radiothon kickoff (which I am currently raising money for here) and the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Celebration Telethon broadcast. I am currently an usher at the Florida Theatre and the Akron Civic Theatre.

My medical success has afforded me the chance to meet 45 of my favorite celebrities, including Omar Vizquel, Sandy Alomar and Cher and country musicians Carrie Underwood, Lauren Alaina, Maggie Rose, I love listening to Disney and country music. My favorite artists are Dove Cameron, Janelle Arthur, Lauren Alaina, Liv & Maddie and Meghan Trainor.

If not for the wonderful staff of Akron Children’s Hospital, I firmly believe I would not be here today.

Fun Fact: I was invited to help cut the ribbon at the $168 million state-of-the-art Kay Jewelers Pavilion at Akron Children’s Hospital last spring. That was truly a very special moment for me!

Matt Schonover is a former patient at our Network's Akron Children's Hospital, where he has been treated since birth.