KiDS of NYU Vascular Anomaly Family Day
The KiDS of NYU Vascular Anomaly Family Day was initiated as a "reunion" for older vascular anomalies patients (and their families) to network with other patients and families undergoing the beginning, and often the most medically and psychologically challenging, phase of treatment.
One of the most gratifying aspects of this special event was the number of “graduates” who attended and who gave support for the younger families. Most of them brought photo albums cataloguing the chronological sequence of events leading up to their present "self.”
The Family Day schedule includes a workshop facilitated by a pediatric psychologist and a social worker. An adult who had severe hemangiomas as an infant is a regular attendee at our Family Day, and she circulates to network with families and provide support.
Additionally, we have a cover-up make-up workshop, lots of raffles prizes, delicious food, and entertainment. One year Peter Yarrow, of Peter Paul and Mary, provided a spectacular musical performance. He is a spokesperson for Operation Respect, an anti-bullying program geared to increase sensitivity to those who are different.
The ideology of this organization pertinent, as our patient population is frequently targeted by strangers who tease, stare and often ridicule.
We have obtained endorsements from U.S. Senators Clinton and Schumer, U.S. Congress Representative Rangel, NYC Councilwoman Eva Moskowitz, and Mayor Michael Bloomberg. U.S. Congress Representative Caroline Maloney published out event in the Congressional Record.
