Free diagnostic clinic for kids offered Nov. 5

The Elgin Elks Lodge, in cooperation with the Illinois Children's Cae Program and Sherman Hospital, will sponsor a free orthopedic diagnostic clinic for children with no health insurance Monday, Nov. 5, at Sherman Hospital, 1425 Randall Road, Elgin.

The clinic will be conducted from 2 to 5 p.m. by Dr. Vincent P. Cannestra of Orthopedic and Spine Surgery Associates. Dr. Cannestra has worked with the Elks Program for several years, conducting free clinics four times a year for children, birth to age 21. All diagnostic services including X-rays, MRIs and other tests are paid for by the Elks program. Financial assistance with treatment for a diagnosed problem may be available through the Elks charity.

This clinic is especially for children who complain of frequently occurring leg, knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, back or wrist pain. The clinic also is for children with diagnosed or suspected back curvature or who seem very clumsy and/or fall frequently.

This clinic is by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling the Elks program from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at (800) 272-0074. Family physicians are welcome to refer children to the clinic, but no referral is necessary to obtain an appointment.

The Illinois Elks have made working with physically challenged children their major project for 84 years. Each year, the 73 lodges of the Fraternal Order raise approximately $500,000 to support their efforts throughout Illinois. The charity conducts no public fundraisers and does not seek nor accept any government funding.