Dear Readers,
Although this year brought unexpected difficulties and challenges in the form of a global pandemic, the world is still turning and the seasons are still changing as consistently as ever, giving us a sense of normalcy. December continues to be a season of giving, gratitude, and, especially, hope and compassion. Within the pages of this edition of Leaders in Care, we are pleased to share stories focused on these themes.
Shriners Hospitals for Children are places of hope. Hope may be intangible, but it can be seen throughout our hospitals and clinics, as children with complex medical conditions and physical challenges discover they can accomplish their goals and believe in their dreams. Hope defies limits and adversity, builds confidence and fuels perseverance. We stand back in appreciation and awe as we watch children take first steps, speak clearly for the first time, sing and laugh with joy, or even tie their shoes or write their name for the first time. We watch our patients prepare to take their places in the world and in their communities with hope, grace and confidence.
We are also people of hope. Hope encourages the researchers’ painstakingly slow, meticulous work that one day may lead to answers and cures, and it fulfills the physicians’ promise to improve children’s lives.
Shriners Hospitals for Children is pleased to be able to continue our nearly 100-year tradition of offering hope, compassion and healing to children and families. We look forward to a new year of promise and opportunity, and to continuing to share our stories with you.
Sincerely,
Mel Bower
Chief Marketing and Communications Officer
Shriners Hospitals for Children
Patient Perspectives
EDGAR PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE WOMEN WHO CARE FOR HIM
Edgar has been coming to Shriners Hospitals for Children — Salt Lake City since 2011. Last March, when he heard that International Women’s Day was coming up, he wanted to honor two women who have made an impact on his life with a heartfelt note. Here is an excerpt from his letter. The women who work at Shriners Hospitals for Children — Salt Lake City have been the greatest thing that I could ever ask for and much, much more.
Let me start with the amazing Kristen Carroll, M.D. She is one of the most caring and loving people I have ever met. Dr. Carroll is always there for me. I remember when she wanted me to try a new walker and braces on my legs. I asked her, “What if I fall?’’ She responded, “Oh, you won’t fall, and even if you do, I will be here to pick you up because I believe in you.”
Another woman I am very thankful for is my physical therapist, Crystal. She and I go way back to 2011 when I had my last leg and hip surgery. I was scared because I was casted for eight long weeks. When I finally got up from my bed at the hospital, I was in pain and couldn’t walk. Crystal came up to my room and said, “All right buddy, it’s time to get up and get moving. We have to get your legs back on track!” She always smiled at me and said, “I will make it my personal goal to see you walking again, because I care too much about you to not help you.”
TO READ Edgar’s entire letter, please visit bit.ly/EdgarsLetter.
