Bowling benefit aids Children’s Hospital patients, student athletes

Go bowling this weekend to benefit young UI Hospital patients and UIC student athletes.

Registered bowlers for “Pins Down for Pediatrics” make a $25 donation to benefit the Children’s Hospital University of Illinois and UIC Athletics for the fundraiser, 1 to 5 p.m. Oct. 18 at the UIC Bowling Alley in Student Center East.

Registration includes two games of bowling and a raffle ticket for a chance to win UIC Athletics apparel.

The Children’s Hospital plans to use the money for art supplies, toys, games and other recreational materials for its young patients.

“These things are important because they help distract patients from their pain and illness,” says Lindsay Cousins, child life specialist. “It helps normalize their environment and socialize them, because it can be traumatic for kids, especially if they have a longer stay. This makes it easier for them.”

The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee wants to raise money for equipment and to support student involvement with Children’s Hospital.

UIC student athletes usually visit the Children’s Hospital once a month and on holidays, but athletes want to get more involved, said Kendall Wilde, vice president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.

“When we go to hospitals and talk to patients, we see the strength and power that these kids have and the things they go through to even stay alive,” said Wilde, a midfielder on the women’s soccer team and a pre-nursing student.

Students from about 10 teams will bowl.

“Building relationships with patients helps them realize that they can overcome obstacles,” Wilde said. “We’re promoting wellness, health, active lifestyles and mental strength.”