“This was one of the
best days of my life!”

This excitement, witnessed by first grader Drew Eschenbach’s mom, followed a day at St. Joseph School that included a field trip to Good Samaritan Hospital. Volunteer members of the Woman’s Auxiliary Group organize a program called the Pediatric Orientation Program (POP).

It’s thanks to the many volunteers at Good Sam that our students receive such opportunities. It happened that three of the volunteers teaching our students are long-time members of St. Joseph Parish. Parishioner Elaine Meaden has been volunteering at Good Sam since its’ opening 35 years ago. Elaine mainly works at the Information Desk, but fills in when needed for the POP program. “It helps the children to have a better feeling about the hospital. They don’t have to be so apprehensive at the hospital,” she said. With Drew’s reaction, we know the students love this program.

First grade teachers Jane Krueger and Patti Biernat prepare their students before going on the fieldtrip. "We read about and discuss what they might see at a hospital," said Miss Krueger. Michael Metzler was most excited about the IV’s and x-rays. Louis Griffin learned that an IV gives water and sugar. Students learned about dehydration and the importance of water. Jack Norgle remembered when a fellow ballplayer was dehydrated on the playing field and passed out. He learned water is so important!

In its’ 30th year, the POP program is co-chaired by parishioner Linda Breagel, who demonstrated blood pressure to our students. Parishioner Mary Busse explained various jobs at the hospital, including a big word, “anesthesiologist” to the students. Volunteer Carol Benes of Downers Grove helped, too. “I think it is a wonderful program. The kids are so enthusiastic. I remember once a little boy brought the baby cap he wore home after being born at Good Sam to show his fellow students.”

These women are just a small part of the many volunteers at Good Samaritan Hospital. Approximately 10 run the POP program, but there are over 400 volunteers at the hospital. "We are so grateful to the many volunteers who give our students such opportunities, and especially to those who were with us on our POP field trip," added Miss Krueger.