New Interstitial Lung Disease Clinic Led by Former Fellow

Danielle VanBeckum, MD, has joined the Division of Pulmonary Medicine at Lurie Children’s after completing her three-year fellowship with the division in July 2025. Dr. VanBeckum now leads the first Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Clinic supporting her focus on interstitial and rare lung diseases. 

This monthly clinic, established in November, moved from goal to reality in just a few months.  Dr. VanBeckum’s interest in ILD started during her fellowship training when caring for patients with ILD made it clear that a dedicated program was needed. “Because so many of these children have systemic disease processes with significant pulmonary involvement, many require a multidisciplinary approach. Having strong collaboration with other clinical areas like Stem Cell Transplant and Rheumatology improves our ability to identify patients who would benefit from lung function testing and pulmonary evaluation,” said Dr. VanBeckum. The long-term goal is to fully integrate this clinic with other specialties, offering comprehensive care and convenience to patient families through a multidisciplinary approach. 

As a member of the Children’s Interstitial and Diffuse Lung Disease Research Network, she meets with other national experts monthly to discuss challenging cases and collaborate on management plans. The other support network for Dr. VanBeckum resides within the walls of the hospital. Aaron Hamvas, MD, Division Head of Neonatology, has been working with Dr. VanBeckum on understanding the genetic contributors to neonatal ILD.

With both a current and recently matched incoming fellow showing interest in pediatric ILD, Dr. VanBeckum will also step into the role of mentor as she furthers growth of this exciting new program.