When you have kids, injuries and illness aren’t a question of if, but when.

Every parent has experienced that sinking feeling; when you hear your child cry out, then see that child sprawled out on the ground, tears in their eyes. Or when you get home from work and see your child sacked out on the couch, forehead burning, stomach churning.

Mike Fox of Hinsdale experienced that moment in September, when he saw his 8-year-old son Charlie after the boy flipped a motor scooter he was riding on.

“He was all banged up. His foot was the worst of it,” Fox said. “I didn’t see any signs of a break, so we kept him bandaged up.”

Two days later, Charlie’s foot started swelling and turned purple. Fox consulted a neighbor who is also a doctor, who recommended taking Charlie to the new Edward-Elmhurst Health Immediate Care in Hinsdale.

“They said, ‘It’s brand new, you wouldn’t have to wait long,’” Fox said. “That was the first great surprise, that we didn’t have to wait.”

Fox arrived with Charlie and his 11-year-old daughter, Anna, about an hour before closing time.

“As soon as we walked in, everyone popped up and said, 'Charlie! Let’s get you in here,’” Fox said. “They just put him at ease. Everyone was smiling; they were joking with Charlie and Anna.”

It didn’t take long for the doctor to diagnose deep bruising and an infection that caused the swelling in Charlie’s foot.

In most non-life-threatening medical situations, it’s best to call your doctor’s office first if possible.

But what if you call your doctor’s office, but they’re booked solid? Or it’s after hours? Immediate Care Centers or Walk-In Clinics can provide the care you need, quick.

Edward-Elmhurst Health Walk-In Clinics are able to handle things like bumps, bruises, fevers and rashes. Our Immediate Care Centers can handle all of the above and more complicated situations as well, such as sprains, minor broken bones and moderate burns.

Not only will you get convenient care, you’ll get quality care.

“I’m the first one to say I hate hospitals,” Fox said. “But that experience was just so pleasant, I can’t say enough.”

Should you go to the Emergency Room, Immediate Care or a Walk-In Clinic? Check our guide.

Quick, convenient, advanced medical care — right here, right now. Learn more about our walk-in care locations.