Annual Report 2023-2024

someone who looks like her is a delight,” said Madelyn. “There is so much valuable knowledge in the living experience that each of us has with various disabilities, and it means the world to me to pass on that information to make a positive impact.” Dream come true for Denny Dennilson’s journey with Shriners Children’s Mexico began when he was 2 months old. Born without his femur and knee, little Denny and his family were referred to the orthotics and prosthetics department. His treatment began quickly, so that he could receive a knee replacement as soon as possible. When Denny was 6, his parents introduced him to soccer. His love for the sport may have been inherited from his father, who is a soccer coach, but this sport opened a world of possibilities for Dennilson. With the confidence of an athlete, Denny joined the team not only as a soccer player, but as an official goalkeeper. He had the opportunity to play in various intercollegiate tournaments, including one in Piedras Negras, Coahuila, where he won the trophy for the best goalkeeper in the league. In addition, he participated in the Mexico-Guadalajara zone interstates, and he continues to play soccer at his school. Last year, thanks to a special collaboration with Club América, Shriners Children’s Mexico managed to fulfill one of Dennilson’s greatest dreams, which was to visit the Azteca Stadium and see his favorite team, Club América. That day, Denny was received by the club’s delegation, who gave him a warm welcome, in addition to giving him the official No. 1 shirt. He was able to be on the field to watch his team warm up before the game, and ultimately win the match. But the best thing happened at the end, when his favorite player, Memo Ochoa, gave him a pair of autographed gloves. “I will never forget that moment,” Denny said.

With the confidence of an athlete, Denny joined the team not only as a soccer player, but as an official goalkeeper.

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