CHESTER, ill. – Memorial Hospital hosted its third annual Junior Explorers Camp from June 25–27, welcoming 12 enthusiastic students entering grades 6–8 for a hands-on introduction to the world of healthcare. Led by Program Coordinator Mariah Bargman, the camp offered a dynamic, behind-the-scenes experience designed to spark curiosity in science, medicine, and patient care.
Memorial Hospital’s Junior Explorers (from left): Lucas Maes, Mabrie Cushman, Ryder LeGrand, Brynnley Roy, Evan Bargman, Kayleigh Donjon, Parker Klausing, Ronin Bradshaw, Alexander Miller, and Trenton Reynolds. Not pictured: McKinlee Graham and Hallie Valleroy
Over the course of three days, students rotated through departments and local healthcare partners, engaging in interactive activities that brought various specialties to life. In Human Resources, students explored how different careers might align with their personalities, while Physical Therapy guided them through stretching exercises to demonstrate treatment techniques. A tour of the Laboratory offered a close look at diagnostic equipment, and Nursing staff provided access to the ER and Med-Surg Unit, complete with a Hoyer lift demonstration and hands-on use of blood pressure cuffs and stethoscopes.
Campers receive an up-close look at the Arch helicopter.
Participants also received CPR, AED, and first aid training for infants through adults. In Occupational Therapy, students experimented with adaptive tools that support daily tasks following illness or injury, while Speech Pathology introduced them to swallowing exercises and broader aspects of communication therapy. Diagnostic Imaging specialists showcased X-ray, Dexa scanning, and ultrasound equipment, and the Cardiopulmonary team led demonstrations involving pulse oximetry and lung sounds.
Students practice lining skeletal patient, “Billy Bob” up for his x-ray.
Dr. Hess from Chester Family Dental offered insight into the many roles in dentistry, giving students the chance to fill model teeth. The Pharmacy team explained medication preparation, IVs, and chemotherapy processes, then let students fill their own “candy prescriptions.” Surgical Services staff provided a tour of the operating room, allowing the students to handle surgical instruments. Dietary Services emphasized hand hygiene and shared healthy snack tips, while the Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab Center illustrated how even simple activities like blowing bubbles can be difficult for patients with lung conditions. Students also toured the Specialty Clinic, learning about specialty tools used by physicians and nurses.
A highlight of the final day included a visit from David Ochs, Program Director for Air Evac Lifeteam, who provided a seminar on emergency helicopter services. Although Air Evac had to respond to a real-time emergency, students were treated to a helicopter tour and inspiring discussion from the ARCH pilot team, already onsite.
Medical Explorers Karlie Kranz, Emma Batson, and Ella Tripp played an essential role in supporting this year’s camp, guiding participants through sessions and sharing their own insights as mentors. “This program helps students broaden their understanding of how many roles and people it takes to care for patients,” said Bargman. “It’s always a pleasure to welcome curious young minds into our hospital.”
The Junior Explorers Camp continues to serve as an introduction to Memorial Hospital’s Medical Explorers Program, which is now enrolling students aged 14 through 20. For more information, visit www.mhchester.com/exploring.