ParentWISE & PeerWISE

Building on the common bond of shared medical or care experiences, the ParentWISE® and PeerWISE program:

• Connects current patients and families with experienced, specially-trained patient and parent volunteers who listen and offer support in multiple ways
• Empowers patients and families to partner effectively with their care team and to advocate for their care needs
• Supports patients and families in managing the stresses, isolation and experiences within specialized care or treatment 

ParentWISE

As the person making day-to-day healthcare decisions for your child, you may feel uncertain, anxious and isolated. Even well-intentioned family and friends may not know first-hand what you are going through. But there are other parents and caregivers who do. Our trained ParentWISE® (Parent Wisdom In Shared Experience) volunteers uniquely understand these experiences as the parents and caregivers of children who have received specialized care or treatment. They are available virtually to offer hope and practical support to families. In-person support may be available in some medical areas as well. 

ParentWISE® has been recognized to truly make an impact for patient families. In 2013, ParentWISE® received national recognition when it was granted a Hospital Award for Volunteer Excellence by the American Hospital Association. 

PeerWISE

Patients often find comfort in talking with others who have been in their shoes. PeerWISE volunteers are patients, age 16 and older, who can mentor patients and families as they go through the treatment process. 

PeerWISE volunteers talk about what it’s really like to go through treatment and adjust to daily life. These judgment-free conversations can help normalize complex care plans, navigate care and cope with associated challenges.

Speak with a Volunteer

Our coordinators will connect you with volunteers who have navigated similar care experiences. Contact parentwise@luriechildrens.org or 312.227.3280 if you would like to explore a ParentWISE and/or PeerWISE connection.