Esther's Friends

Esther's Friends, The Esther Viola Frey Memorial Foundation, was established to honor Esther, who passed away from complications from her rare genetic disorder, in a way that was fitting with her life. During Esther's two short years she never met a person who didn't instantly become her friend. Thus, Esther's Friends continues in her spirit and provides support to children, and families of children, facing long-term hospitalizations - making all those who benefit, one of Esther's friends.

With this mission in mind, Esther’s Friends has provided critical support to pediatric inpatients throughout Chicagoland.  Highlights include supporting the position of Child Life Specialist and the cost of the Emergency Fund, providing a new therapy dog to visit hospitalized children, establishing a dedicated Patient Support Fund, and supplying parking passes, meal vouchers, comfort care kits, adaptive toys, iPads, and books.  

To learn more about Esther's Friends initiatives with our partners including, but not limited to, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Rush University Children's Hospital, John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Comer Children's Hospital, Loyola Medicine Children's Hospital, Advocate Children's Hospital, and Children's Hospital University of Illinois, visit esthersfriends.org.