Four Shriners Children’s patient alumnae took the ice — and the world — by storm at the inaugural World Para Ice Hockey Women’s World Championships in Dolny Kubin, Slovakia, last August. Competing against teams from Australia, Canada, Great Britain, Norway and Team World, these athletes showed what grit and teamwork look like.
On the U.S. Women’s National Sled Hockey Team, our four patient alumnae stood out: (pictured above, left to right) goaltender Hope Magelky, Paralympian Lera Doederlein, former national patient ambassador Katie Ladlie and team captain Erica McKee. Each brought their own strength and drive, and together they made an absolutely unstoppable team.
Their journey from Shriners Children’s to the world stage is a reminder of what’s possible when kids are given the support and encouragement to thrive. The specialized care, therapy and guidance they received at Shriners Children’s helped them build strength, confidence and resilience — tools they carried onto the ice. Every practice, every therapy session, every small victory along the way built the foundation for this moment.
These world-class athletes continue to inspire the next generation of young patients. They show that the right care can turn challenges into achievements. With perseverance and heart, anything is possible.
