Dear Readers,
Children inspire us every day. No one sees that more clearly than we do at Shriners Children’s. Families come to us seeking help for children with complex medical conditions and serious injuries, and time and again those children respond with remarkable resilience.
Research suggests this resilience often stems from the inherent trust children place in adults. When a child is surrounded by supportive parents, dedicated caregivers and others who are invested in their recovery, that trust builds psychological and emotional strength.
We see this in our locations; children who face daunting challenges are still playing in our hallways, laughing with friends and smiling at staff. Their optimism lifts the entire atmosphere. Many of our team members say it is the main reason they feel called to work in our rehabilitation units, clinics and hospitals.
In this issue, we share compelling stories of patients who have endured immense challenges, yet with the support of their care teams and families, have emerged stronger. I hope their journeys leave you with the same deep sense of awe we feel in walking beside them and earning their trust.
At Shriners Children’s, we are committed not only to providing the very best care possible, but also to creating moments that make every child’s experience meaningful and special. We know it is not only advanced treatments but also the compassion and support we give that make the difference. In return, the children we serve show us the courage and strength in hardship that inspire us all.
This commitment is especially visible during the holiday season, when twinkling lights, toy drives and acts of kindness bring joy to patients, families and staff alike. Within these pages, we share stories of that holiday magic.
From our Shriners Children’s family to yours, we wish you a season full of hope, warmth and happiness.
Sincerely,
Mel Bower
Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Shriners Children’s
Patient Perspectives
The team at Shriners Children’s Portland received this lovely note from Katya, the mother of our patient Audrey, who is living with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy. Audrey had many great interactions with our therapists, and a chance to use an eye-gaze device that translates her eye movements into speech.
“Ms. April from OT and Miss Amanda from PT have been so helpful and empowering to our little Audrey. They both observed and met her where she was and explored new heights with her. Thank you to both! Special shout-out to Ms. Denae from OT – she stepped in with such joy and connection. Audrey loves you and all the games you played. Ms. Megan from speech therapy has taught us all the meaning of patience and endurance in trying out the eye gaze device. Thank you so much for all your incredible help and connection.”
– Katya
