By Melanie Kwestel
Special to Inside
Pediatric oncologist Elaine Morgan, of Children's Memorial Hospital, spent time with her patients in an unusual—and delightful—way on June 22. She accompanied them to Six Flags Great America for Chai Lifeline's Joan and Shael Bellows Family Day.
For children with serious illnesses, a day spent with family and friends is worth its weight in gold. But, according to incoming executive director Sharon Schwartz, the rides and fun are only part of the experience for sick kids, their parents, and siblings.
This "is so much more than a day to play," she remarked as she watched families enjoying their catered meals at an area set aside for Chai Lifeline. "Our year-round program of family days enables parents to connect with one another. They know that the people they are speaking with really understand their challenges, because they are also living through them."
Those serious conversations mingled with laughter and joking as 250 parents, children, and volunteer counselors rode the roller coasters and bumper cars, enjoyed the many shows and attractions, and even got to meet their favorite Looney Tunes characters. Chai Lifeline was also able to arrange for VIP status for the sick children and their siblings—they headed straight to the front of the longest lines!
Chai Lifeline's 21 year-round programs are dedicated to easing the burden of serious illness on children and their families, and giving back to sick children a piece of their childhood often stolen by illness. The Midwest office serves over 80 families, offering everything from support groups for parents to "Big Siblings" for sick children and their own siblings. The office also supplies sophisticated videophone hookups to a child's school to allow a sick child to participate in classwork from home or hospital room.
Over the past year, Chai Lifeline has established two additional programs that benefit this community. The new Chai Family Center offers emotional and psychosocial counseling to every member of the sick child's family, including the child, siblings, parents, and even grandparents. Camp Simcha Special is Chai Lifeline's newest summer camp, bringing a magical vacation experience to children with serious chronic or genetic conditions.
For more information about Chai Lifeline programs and services in the Midwest area, contact Moshe Turk, regional director, or Sharon Schwartz at (847) 763-1818.
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