Sudden cardiac death (SCD) claims the lives of more than 2,000 children and adolescents in the United States each year. Most victims of SCD had an underlying, undiagnosed heart condition.
In an effort to prevent the occurrence of such tragic deaths, Morris Hospital has created a free cardiac screening program called Rhythm of Our Youth (ROOY), with funding provided by generous donors to the Morris Hospital Foundation. Working in collaboration with area high schools, the purpose of the screening is to identify high school students who have an undiagnosed cardiac abnormality that could result in sudden cardiac death.
- The screening involves a painless, 3-minute test called an ECG, or electrocardiogram, to measure the electrical activity of the heart.
- Screenings are typically held during PE class or study hall.
- Based on results of the screening, about 3 percent of students are referred to their physician for additional follow-up. Typically, less than 1 percent are found to have a medical problem that requires cardiac intervention.
- Results are sent home to the student’s parents and are not shared with the school.
To learn more about this lifesaving screening, view our Rhythm of Our Youth video.
(In order to participate in the screening, students must be enrolled in the school where the screening is being offered.)
2024-25 school year Rhythm of Our Youth schedule:
- Coal City H.S. – September 12, 2024
- Morris H.S. – September 18, 2024
- Minooka H.S. (South Campus) – October 29 & 30, 2024
- Wilmington H.S. – February 27, 2025
- Seneca H.S. – March 20, 2025
- Rescheduled Minooka H.S. (Central Campus)- April 24, 2025
- Rhythm of Our Youth at the YMCA- July 12, 2025 (open to all students entering their freshman, sophomore, junior or senior year of high school for the 2025/26 school year and 2025 high school graduates. To register for this special screening date, please go to our Events & Classes page.)
CONSENT FORM
Students must have parental consent to participate in the screening. To sign up your student, please click the Consent For Screening button below.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information about the Rhythm of Our Youth screening, please view our Frequently Asked Question:
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers are an important part of our Rhythm of Our Youth screening and must be at least 18 years of age and pass a background check. Half day and full day shifts are available, with training provided the night before the screening. For those willing and able to offer their time and talents volunteering at a Rhythm of Our Youth screening, please follow the link to complete the volunteer sign-up form.
