News You Can Use

Amee M. Bigelow, MD, MS, Appointed Medical Director of the Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit

Amee M. Bigelow, MD, MS, has been appointed medical director of the Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit (CTICU) at Nationwide Children's, effective August 1, 2026. Dr. Bigelow has served as interim director of the CTICU for the past six months, providing strong leadership and fostering collaboration across the Heart Center and CTICU teams. Her dedication to patients, families and colleagues has made a meaningful impact on the program.

A highly respected clinician, educator and researcher, Dr. Bigelow brings extensive expertise and a commitment to advancing patient care. Throughout her time at Nationwide Children's, she has contributed to the continued strength and success of the CTICU through her clinical, academic and leadership efforts. In her new role, Dr. Bigelow will lead the CTICU as it continues to grow and evolve in support of children and families requiring complex cardiac care.

Leena Nahata, MD, Named Associate Chief of Clinical Research Officer for Training and Career Development

Leena Nahata, MD, endocrinologist and principal investigator at Nationwide Children's, has been named associate chief clinical research officer for training and career development. In this role, Dr. Nahata will provide strategic leadership for clinical research training, education and career development for trainees and clinician-scientists across Nationwide Children’s. She will work with hospital and research leaders to strengthen training programs, support professional development and cultivate a skilled clinical research workforce. Dr. Nahata also will help advance partnerships with The Ohio State University Clinical and Translational Science Institute to expand opportunities for medical trainees and faculty.

Hannah Hays, MD, to Serve as President-Elect of American Academy of Clinical Toxicology

Hannah Hays, MD, FACEP, FAACT, FACMT, medical director of the Central Ohio Poison Center at Nationwide Children's, has been elected president-elect of the American Academy of Clinical Toxicology (AACT) for the 2026-2028 term. Dr. Hays will formally begin her term following the North American Congress of Clinical Toxicology (NACCT) Annual Meeting in October.

Dr. Hays is a respected leader in medical toxicology whose expertise and dedication have advanced patient care, education and advocacy within the field. As president-elect, she will work closely with AACT leadership and members to support the Academy's mission and strategic priorities while preparing to serve as president. Her collaborative leadership style and commitment to the profession will help advance the Academy's continued growth and impact in clinical toxicology, research and education.

Hyundai Hope on Wheels Grants

Nationwide Children’s physicians Samara Potter, MD, and James Reinecke, MD, have received grants from Hyundai Hope on Wheels to advance innovative pediatric cancer research. Dr. Potter is developing and testing new approaches to detect cancer through a simple blood test, while Dr. Reinecke is investigating ways to combat brain cancer metastasis. The awards reflect Hyundai Hope on Wheels’ continued commitment to supporting pediatric cancer research. Researchers, supporters and community members gathered to celebrate the grants during a handprint ceremony recognizing the recipients and their work.

Second Annual Cystic Fibrosis Day

Cure CF Columbus (C3) will host its Second Annual Cystic Fibrosis Day on Monday, September 28, at Nationwide Children’s Education Building, Stecker Auditorium. The event will bring together clinical providers, researchers and cystic fibrosis advocates to share the latest updates on innovative research, advancements in care and ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for individuals living with CF.

The program will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with breakfast available beginning at 7:30 a.m.

Those interested in attending can learn more and register at https://redcap.link/CFDay2026. Questions can be directed to Stephanie.Barberic1@NationwideChildrens.org.

Patient Financial Assistance Program

Nationwide Children’s is committed to offering financial assistance to people who have health care needs and are not able to pay for care. No child will be denied care due to inability to pay for services. We accept most insurance plans, including Medicaid. Nationwide Children’s has financial assistance programs for those who qualify. Financial support staff are available to help families sign up for Medicaid or to find out if they qualify for financial assistance. For more information or to obtain a copy of our Financial Assistance Policy, contact Patient Accounts at (614) 722-2055 or visit NationwideChildrens.org/Financial-Assistance. For Nationwide Children’s Toledo, contact Patient Accounts at (888) 908-2498 or visit NationwideChildrens.org/Locations/Toledo/Patient-Resources/Financial-Assistance.