Chicago Physicians Help Homeless Get Back On Their Feet

Who:

In the ultimate act of service during Chicago's cold holiday season, Midwest Orthopaedic at Rush (MOR) physicians and their staff, and medical students from Rush University Medical Center will provide complimentary foot health care and distribute socks and winter boots to homeless men and women at a shelter on Chicago's west side.

Facing extreme cold in the winter without adequate footwear, an estimated 65 percent of homeless individuals suffer painful foot conditions. Lacking access to the proper medical care or even clean, dry socks, Chicago's homeless develop conditions including frostbite, fungus, lesions, and gangrene. Serious bacterial skin infections are highly prevalent as are blood clots, ulcers and fractures.

Extreme weather conditions leave Chicago's homeless population in need of medical attention and treatment. A recent study reports that only 26% of homeless individuals report ever having a foot examination by a medical provider. The MOR team of doctors are stepping up to serve this population and provide the care they need.

What:

"Our Hearts to Your Soles" on Chicago's west side

When:

Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2018.  7 – 8:30 pm

Where:

Franciscan House of Mary and Joseph

2715 West Harrison Street

Chicago, IL 60612

773.265.6683

Background:

An analysis by Chicago Coalition for the Homeless reported that 80,384 Chicagoans were homeless in 2016. "Our Hearts to Your Soles" is a nation-wide program providing shoes and free foot checks to less fortunate people. The program stems from the belief that proper foot health is an essential part of everyday life and important to an overall health maintenance program.

Dr. Simon Lee, a MOR foot/ankle surgeon, began the Chicago chapter of the program in 2007 and since then, has been joined by his MOR partners, Drs. Johnny Lin and Kamran Hamid. In addition to the medical screenings, the shelter clients will also receive free shoes donated by Red Wing Shoe Company and Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush.