#USA #Chicago #National Sleep Foundation #Pediatric Sleep #Stephen Sheldon

Dr. Stephen H. Sheldon – A Pillar in Sleep Medicine

On December 22, 2025, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) declared Dr. Stephen H. Sheldon, DO, FAAP, as the recipient of its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for the year 2025. This accolade stands as NSF's highest honor, recognizing individuals for their exceptional leadership and contributions to the field of sleep health.

Dr. Sheldon has played a crucial role in furthering the NSF's mission of public health, particularly in educating the community about the vital nature of sleep. Through his extensive career, he has made significant advancements that have notably impacted the understanding and management of sleep health. As Steven Lerman, MD, MPH, Board Chair of the NSF, stated, “His work as a pediatric sleep specialist has been pivotal in the field, and we celebrate the many years he has helped inform NSF's approach to promoting the importance of sleep health for children and families.”

A Pioneering Career in Pediatric Sleep Medicine

With a remarkable tenure at the forefront of sleep medicine, Dr. Sheldon has served as Professor Emeritus in Pediatrics (Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine) at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. He dedicated over three decades of his career as the Director of Sleep Medicine at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. Throughout his time there, he not only treated patients but also educated many aspiring sleep specialists, shaping the future of pediatric sleep medicine.

Dr. Sheldon’s expertise earned him the distinction of being the first physician to receive a special qualification certificate in pediatric sleep medicine from the American Board of Pediatrics. His influence extended to establishing standards for certification in this vital field, underscoring his commitment to advancing pediatric sleep health.

Moreover, Dr. Sheldon played an integral advisory role on pediatric obstructive sleep apnea for notable organizations, including the American Dental Association. His leadership qualities were further recognized through his chairmanship of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine Foundation's Development Council, cementing his position as a respected authority in sleep health.

Contributions to the Field

The legacy of Dr. Sheldon extends beyond clinical practice into academia and publishing. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to various literature and journals, most notably as an editor for the exemplary text “Principles and Practice of Pediatric Sleep Medicine,” which has been instrumental in guiding practitioners in the pediatric sleep field since 2005. His editorial role in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine showcases his commitment to advancing research and best practices in sleep medicine.

His board membership with NSF from 2013 to 2020 allowed him to influence education policies, particularly in designing NSF’s pediatric obstructive sleep apnea anatomical model and crafting the forthcoming Adolescent Sleep Health Recommendations.

A Vision for the Future of Sleep Health

Dr. Sheldon’s journey reflects not only personal achievements but also a greater vision for enhancing sleep health education and advocacy among children and families. His leadership is synonymous with progress in understanding sleep disorders and their impact on childhood development and quality of life.

As the NSF moves forward, it will continue to rely on the foundational work set forth by pioneers like Dr. Sheldon. His recognition serves as an inspiration for future generations of healthcare professionals committed to improving sleep health.

In conclusion, the National Sleep Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award awarded to Dr. Stephen H. Sheldon recognizes an individual whose life's work has illuminated the path toward better sleep health for countless individuals. The NSF's commitment to promoting the understanding of sleep's importance through leadership and advocacy is exemplified through Dr. Sheldon's legacy.

For more information about the National Sleep Foundation and its initiatives, visit www.theNSF.org.