hands on support
a day for patients 17 & under and their families
This very special, free event is focused on helping young patients live healthy, fun-filled lives. Children, teens, and their families, and caregivers will have the opportunity to meet with physicians, dietitians, nephrologists, and other relevant healthcare professionals for a day of empowering education. This event will feature speakers for parents and fun, engaging activities for kids. Children, teens, and their will gain a better understanding of their bodies, and enable them to gain confidence in their health. Educational topics may cover any of the following areas:
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Information about new medicine
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Managing a kidney transplant
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Emotional support and family wellness
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Dialysis options
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Breakthroughs in technology
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Healthy snacks and nutrition
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Following a healthy lunch, families will enjoy access to the Brookfield Zoo. Access to the zoo will only be granted to those who attend the full program.
schedule & information
plan what to expect
Brookfield Zoo
Enjoy access to Brookfield Zoo where families can explore and enjoy the fun and educational adventure at the conclusion of the program. ​
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Brookfield Zoo
Discovery Center Building
3300 Golf Rd Brookfield IL 60513
Program Schedule
9:00AM Registration, Check-in, & Breakfast ​
9:30AM Welcome & Ice Breaker
"Find Someone Who" bingo-style activity
9:50AM Session 1 - Safari Shuffle (Family Activities & Activity Station Rotation)
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Coloring Station
Bedazzling/decorating water bottles + creative & hands-on activities
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Organize your Medication
Create a pill organizer using candy + additional engagement questions
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Hydration Station
Water tasting activity + education on hydration and kidney health
10:20AM Session 2 - Splash of Spirit (Breakout)
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Kids & Teens - Art Therapy
Led by Holly DeRosa, ATR-BC, LCPC & team at Seasons Within LLC
Two concurrent, age-appropriate sessions designed to help kids & teens express themselves, connect with others, and explore their experiences through creativity.
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Parents/Caregivers - Well-being in Kidney Health
Jillian Merrick, PhD | Psychologist
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
A dedicated session focused on supporting their own well-being while navigating the kidney health journey with their family. Will provide an opportunity to reflect, connect, and learn strategies for managing the emotional and practical demand of caregiving.​​​​​
11:00AM Session 3 - Wild About Wellness (Family Activities)
Led by Jackie Hankins, MS, RD, CSR, LDN & team at Rush Health/Circle Medical Management
Participants will compare animal and human eating habits while learning about healthy nutrition in a fun, engaging way.
11:30AM Animal Experience & Face Painter​
12:00PM Lunch & Networking
12:30PM Adjourn to Explore the Zoo
photos from the day
relive the memories
program sponsors
helping children plan their futures
The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois is able to successfully impact the lives of young people, their families, and their communities with the help of our dedicated sponsors.
For more information on sponsoring this program, please contact Rachel DePauw at rdepauw@nkfi.org or 312-321-1500.
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The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois wouldn't be able impact the lives of young people, their families, and their communities without the help of our dedicated sponsors.
