After a long absence from the area and two years of working to bring the service back to Logan County, the Elks were thrilled to welcome 10 families to the Elks Orthopedic Assessment Clinic held at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital on April 8, 2014. The Lincoln Elks #914 Lodge in cooperation with the Illinois Elks Children’s Care Corporation and Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital worked collaboratively to offer the opportunity for local children to be seen by David Olysav, MD.

Dr. Olysav, an orthopedic surgeon with Springfield Clinic, saw a variety of patients and was able to review their bone and joint development and provide suggestions and support to the parents in their efforts to provide the best care possible for their children.

“It was an incredible experience,” said Campbell. “I won’t soon forget the caring that ALMH, Dr. Olysav and the Elks all showed by working together to bring this service to the children of our community.”

The Elks Organization has been working with physically challenged children since 1928. There are 17 clinic locations throughout Illinois. The Elks provide financial assistance to their best of their ability for children needing further treatment or specialty equipment when the family lacks sufficient resources to do so. In the past, the Elks have purchased therapy services, corrective shoes, braces, orthotics, wheelchairs and augmentative communication devices to help children overcome a variety of physical challenges.

Brittney Peterson and David Peterson of Lincoln brought their daughter, Erin, to the clinic. Erin suffers from reduced range of motion in her legs which often leaves her in pain.

“Dr. Olysav examined her, answered all of our questions and gave use a great plan of care. He and his staff were warm, friendly and informative. We left an otherwise anxious appointment feeling relieved and with the hope that following his instructions will mean real improvements for Erin,” said Peterson. “We thank the Elks Children’s Care Corporation, ALMH and Dr. Olysav for the opportunity to attend the orthopedic clinic.”

No medical referral is necessary for the clinic; however, physicians are welcome to refer patients to the clinic for a specific reason or second opinion. School nurses are also welcome to refer children and families to the clinic.

To make an appointment for the next clinic on July 1, call the Illinois Elks Children’s Care office at 1-800-272-0074 anytime between 9am - 4pm, Monday through Friday. There are no charges for any services performed at the clinic. Additional clinics are scheduled for October 7 and January 13, 2015.