During the 2009 University of Iowa football season, University of Iowa Children's Hospital is partnering with the Iowa Hawkeyes to feature stories of hope and inspiration. The Kid Captain program will give former or current pediatric patients the opportunity to take the field with the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Michael Artman, MD, head of the Department of Pediatrics and physician-in-chief of UI Children's Hospital, talks about the program:
What is the Kid Captain program?
This is a new partnership we created this year between University of Iowa Children's Hospital and the Iowa Hawkeyes to honor current or former pediatric patients and to celebrate their inspirational stories.
Why is UI Children's Hospital sponsoring this program?
Not a day goes by that we don't hear from parents and families about their remarkable and life-changing experiences at University of Iowa Children's Hospital. These result from the caring relationships with their doctors, nurses, and other staff members that help sustain the children and their families through what can often be very difficult times. We're so proud to be a part of the lives of these families that we wanted to do something that was really unique and would celebrate their courage.
What criteria will be considered to become a Kid Captain?
Our motto, as you know, is "Changing Medicine. Changing Kids' Lives." So we're looking for stories that exemplify this. We hope to hear from families with a child who has a remarkable or life-changing story to tell. There is no fee to submit a nomination. The criteria are:
- Be 18 years of age or younger as of December 2009
- Be a current or former patient at UI Children's Hospital
- Be able to attend, in person, one of the home Iowa football games
Who can nominate a child to be considered for Kid Captain?
We respect and value our patients' privacy, so only parents or legal guardians of the patient can submit a nomination. We hope those who know of a family or child will let them know of this opportunity and encourage them to share their information and submit a nomination.
If someone wants to tell their child's story, how do they submit their story for consideration?
We tried to make it as easy as we can. The rules for entry are listed online.
Is there a deadline to submit nominations?
Yes, August 16. Children selected as an honorary Kid Captain will be notified the week of August 24.
What will the Kid Captain participants receive and how will they be involved on game day?
The child that selected to be a Kid Captain will receive four tickets to the game plus parking. They'll receive pre-game field access and photo opportunities. This is really cool—they'll get a commemorative jersey and they'll be an honored guest for the pre-game coin toss at midfield. Now how cool is that? Memories of a lifetime.
You called this a win-win—it's just a tremendous opportunity, isn't it?
I think it is. It shows the engagement of the Iowa Hawkeyes with the community and with UI Children's Hospital. As you know, Mary and Kirk Ferentz have been huge supporters of our programs here. I think this is a way to honor and demonstrate the respect we have for our children and our patients. |
