October 2003

Chiropractors 'Have A Heart' for Children

Earlier this year, the annual Have‑A‑Heart fundraiser to benefit Oklahaven Children's Chiropractic Center brought thousands of doctors together in an effort that had a lasting impact on the center and its ability to provide services to children.

"The success of Have‑A‑Heart is beginning to be revealed in the number of responses we are receiving from doctors all over the world who held events," said Paula Barnes, Oklahaven Parent Support Group President.

Doctors who participate in the Have‑a‑Heart program share information about Oklahaven with patients by showing a nine‑minute video while they are in the waiting room, and distribute brochures about the Center. The video educates patients about the benefits of chiropractic for children and about success stories of the more severely challenged children. Patients are asked to "have a heart" and give a donation. They write their names on a "heart" cutout, which is displayed in the office. The office staff collects all donations and sends them to Oklahaven.

After the Have‑A‑Heart event in Feb. 2003, a parent of one of Oklahaven's patients expressed her thanks to participating doctors. "As a parent of a child with special needs, I want to thank Oklahaven and those that have helped them to help me. My gratitude of finding an organization dedicated to the healing of children is overwhelming," the woman said. "Since the first of the year, I have heard of this huge fundraiser Have‑A‑Heart. I did not realize what a big deal it was until I saw the response in the letters and donations as the center receives them when I took on this job to help. It is amazing what you have done for my child and the others that seek treatment from Oklahaven."

The woman, identified as Cyndi, mother of 14‑year old Josh, added, "Have‑A‑Heart shows the Hearts of many. Your gifts help parents like me continue with treatments that help our children grow. Recently my son, whom I was informed by other professionals would probably never be able to read, is now reading at kindergarten‑1st grade level. I always felt he had the ability, but when you are told he can't you start believing he can't."

"This family and many others are truly grateful to those who have opened their hearts and broadened the mission of Oklahaven during the Have‑A‑Heart 2003 campaign," said Bobby Doscher, D.C., president of Oklahaven. "With more children suffering from neurological disorders each year, we hope you will open your clinics and your heart to the mission of helping children realize their full potential through the power of chiropractic by participation in our Annual 2004 Have‑A‑Heart campaign during Valentine's week February 9‑14.

For more information about this event, how to sign up for Have‑A‑Heart 2004 and the services that Oklahaven provides, visit www.chiropractic4kids.com.