Love To The Rescue! Precious Moments Partners with Shriners Hospitals for Children
L ast year it was announced that Precious Moments would partner with Shriners Hospitals for Children. For those not familiar with the amazing work that Shriners does, know that their mission includes providing the highest quality care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions, burn injuries and other special healthcare needs within a compassionate, family-centered and collaborative care environment. This mission is carried out without regard to race, color, creed, sex or sect, disability, national origin or ability of a patient’s family to pay. To further tell the story, it might be helpful if you got to know recent ClubMember Natalie C., from the Chicago, IL area. As a child, Natalie was diagnosed with spastic diplegia, which is a form of cerebral palsy that affects muscle control and coordination. It causes high and constant tightness or stiffness in the muscles of the lower extremities. She explained to us, “My parents took me to see many doctors while seeking treatment. We went to one of the best in Chicago, Dr. T., and his plan of attack was to perform a surgery that would stretch my hamstring muscles and have me in a full body cast for months. Of course, my parents wanted a second opinion. That is when we heard about Shriners Hospitals from a family friend.” After her first visit to Shriners, the family’s outlook was more hopeful. Natalie says, “On my first visit, I was seen by Dr. Millar, the Chief of Staff. When my parents told him what course of action the previous doctor wanted to take, he told us he felt that with proper braces, corrective footwear and physical therapy I would be able to get the same result without spending months in a body cast.” Over the course of the next 11 years, Natalie feels she received the absolute best treatment. “I was fitted with various sets of leg braces, given exercises to work on at home, and evaluated regularly. The environment was always upbeat and positive. Every kid was smiling regardless of their situation.” She continues, “The treatment I received at Shriners, partnered with the diligent efforts of my mother while at home, are the reason I lead the life I do today. I am an average person with a bit of an awkward gait. I have a husband and
Love To The Rescue 163017 | $50.99
two amazing daughters. I love to dance, swim and spend time at amusement parks with my family. I can easily keep up with them. It’s scary to think what my life would be like if I wasn’t a patient at Shriners.” Natalie thinks the Precious Moments figurine Love To The Rescue is absolutely perfect. She loves the way it portrays young children as their own heroes. She thinks, “It’s quite an inspiration to show the young patients that deep inside they truly are super heroes, even if they may not feel like it.” Since the partnership was announced, more than $17,000 has been raised to benefit those seeking help from Shriners Hospitals! When you purchase LoveToThe Rescue , a portion of the proceeds benefits the cause, or you may make a direct donation through online checkout at www.PreciousMoments.com. Remember that through your generosity, children have a better chance to grow up just like Natalie.
Natalie’s Advice... When you seek help from Shriners, know that you are becoming a part of a gigantic family of amazing people that will watch you grow up and remember you. Things will get easier as time goes by and treatment continues. You will look back 31 years later and see just how far you have come!
11
11
PreciousMoments.com
SPRING 2017
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator