Monkey in my chair

Monkey in My Chair was created in honor of Chloe Feyerherm who passed away in October 2007 from DIPG, a terminal cancer of the brain stem. Chloe loved school and monkeys, so it only seemed fitting to create the Monkey in My Chair program. Chloe's mother, Heidi Feyerherm-Smith, wanted to connect children who are in cancer treatment and unable to attend school with their classmates.  This program makes that possible.

Each child is provided with a "monkey kit" which includes a big stuffed monkey that takes the child's place in school when they are unable to be there. The kit also includes a small monkey that stays with the child in treatment, a large backpack, a book to help teachers explain to students the situation their classmate is facing and how it affects them, a teacher companion guide, along with other items that can be utilized by the child and/or their classmates. All kits are free to families and hospitals.  

In addition to the Monkey Kit,  each child will be given online access to Monkey Message. Monkey Message is an online component that allows the sharing of pictures and documents to ensure the line of communication stays open between the patient and the classroom. Included in the Monkey Message portal are regular educational activities for the classroom and patients to do that help to foster interaction of students while incorporating key educational tools.