The Partners -- Ruth Gottscho Kidney Foundation

Pediatric nephrologists and nurses from Montefiore and other hospitals administer dialysis treatments. As soon as possible, kidney kids re-join their fellow campers.

For 37 years, the Foundation has worked with Frost Valley and The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. Frost Valley runs the overall camp program. It is recognized as one of the finest summer camps in the country. It’s located on 6,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness less than two hours from New York City. There are 45 comfortable cabins, a modern dining facility, athletic courts, numerous playing fields, a 16-acre lake and a variety of indoor programs, including an arts center and a photography lab. The Ruth Gottscho Dialysis Center is located in the new Guenther Family Wellness Center.

A pediatric nephrologist is always on duty in the dialysis center. Dr. Frederick Kaskel, Director, Division and Training Program in Pediatric Nephrology at The Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, is the medical director for the center. In addition, visiting pediatric nephrologists from other hospitals in the tri-state area take turns overseeing dialysis center activities, and experienced social nurses in the field are also on duty. A Montefiore pediatric renal social worker/coordinator processes all applications of children who are referred to the program by pediatric nephrology centers primarily throughout the Northeast, although “kidney kids” have come from other parts of the country.

The dialysis center’s staff keeps close track of each camper’s medical requirements.