"There are often times where you can be doing anything on a Sunday, and for 2,000 to come out and support Lurie Children's and climb 80 flights of stairs in support the children's hospital is such a meaningful moment for all of us." Director of Community Engagement at Lurie Children's Hospital Deanna Kerns said.
Sunday marked the return of the "AON Step Up for Kids" stair climb to support patients and families at Lurie Children's Hospital.
Money raised is directed to an affiliated organization of Lurie Children's called "KIDSS For Kids," which provides social work, pet therapy, inpatient summer camp and other education services.
KIDSS stands for 'Kindness is Doing Something Special for Kids.'
As of 9:30 a.m., more than half a million dollars had been raised for the organization and its meaningful mission.
"We have over 300 kids spend the night at Lurie Children's last night and just to have the support of the community rallying behind every step makes a difference in the lives of Chicago's kids," Kerns said.
From competitive and recreational climbers to newbies, the 1,600-step journey to the top of the AON Center was a challenge for all.
"I feel pretty good and also exhausted," finisher Chris Wiater said. "It's when you finish you realize how tired you are. It really puts a lot of strain on your lungs."
"Couldn't be for a better cause," finisher Max Reinsdorf said. "Happy to help raise for something that's so important to me and everybody here. It's good fun too, you can feel the energy around here. It's a good time."
The annual event is extra meaningful for Joshua and Beata Sebor, whose son Sammy, spent time at Lurie Children's Hospital.
"It's like a 'pinch me' moment because seven years ago today he was in the hospital recovering from a major surgery," Sebor said. "So, to see him doing well and surrounded by all these people is incredible."
"It's the hardest thing in the world to have your child in the hospital," Sebor said. "Not just the great support for the departments here but just knowing there's a community of people there for you - it's really important."