Impact Report 2024
Shriners Children's Office of Philanthropy donor Impact Report
Impact Report 2024
DALLAS, AGE 1
Report Contents Creating a Legacy of Care 4 Providing Hope and Healing 6 Leading Innovation 8 You Make Miracles Possible 10 Our Locations 12 Inspiring Care 14 Cultivating a Legacy of Care 16 Shaping the Future for Shriners Children’s 17 Community Events 20
Thank you for transforming children’s lives. Because of your generosity, Shriners Children’s continues to push the boundaries of pediatric healthcare, ensuring every child receives exceptional care, regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Your support changes lives, allowing children to heal, grow, and thrive. This year, your generosity has fueled groundbreaking treatments, expanded access to specialized care, and offered hope to nearly 147,000 patients. From life-changing surgeries The stories in this report showcase the profound impact of your philanthropy. Each child’s journey is a testament to the power of giving and the extraordinary community of donors who make it possible. On behalf of our patients, families, physicians, and staff, I would like to thank you for your unwavering dedication to these children. Together, we are shaping brighter futures for children around the world. to innovative research, you make every achievement in these pages possible.
With deepest gratitude,
STUART P. SULLIVAN Chief Philanthropy Officer
AUSTIN, AGE 10
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CREATING A LEGACY OF CARE You are building brighter futures for generations.
For over 80 years, one family has trusted Shriners Children’s Spokane, where exceptional care and innovative treatments have transformed lives across four generations. Their journey with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), or brittle bone disease, was more than a medical diagnosis but a daily reality that impacted their quality of life. However, thanks to donors’ generosity in supporting groundbreaking research in treatments, each generation received hope for a better future. It began with June, the family matriarch, born in 1924, who was among the first OI patients at Shriners Children’s Spokane. Her family sought treatment after she started fracturing bones when she was about 10, leading to a diagnosis and care in her teenage years. The trust built from June’s experience carried forward to her daughter, Wanda, who underwent multiple surgeries at the hospital. Despite spending much of her childhood in treatment, Wanda always felt surrounded by compassion and support. That legacy continued with Wanda’s daughter, Chandra. As a child, she endured over 200 fractures and years of treatment, only beginning to walk on her own at 22. Through it all, she trusted and valued her outstanding care team. Perhaps the most remarkable chapter in this family’s story is Alex, Chandra’s son and the fourth generation to receive care at Shriners Children’s Spokane. Thanks to groundbreaking treatments, including those influenced by research from his mother’s bone marrow donation, Alex walks and runs. Now a thriving teenager with dreams of college and a career in sports broadcasting, Alex’s future is bright because of the donors who make Shriners Children’s care possible. This is more than a story of resilience — it’s a testament to the power of the care made possible through donor generosity. Because of you, families like this one don’t just survive; they thrive. •
Everyone at Shriners Children’s is friendly and caring, and they want what’s best for your kiddo. We love our Shriners family.” WANDA
ALEX, AGE 16
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JOSUE, AGE 27
PROVIDING HOPE AND HEALING Your generosity restores hope for children receiving burn treatment.
My experience was the best. I always felt comfortable and received excellent treatment. Each person on my care team made me feel at home.”
JOSUE Former patient at Shriners Children’s Boston
Burn injuries can be life-altering, but thanks to the comprehensive care at Shriners Children’s, these moments of adversity are met with healing, hope, and resilience. Gael and Josue are living proof of the life-changing impact of specialized burn care. Gael was just two years old when a kitchen accident at his home in Tijuana, Mexico, left him with severe burns from his abdomen to his thighs. His mother, Yoselin, made the difficult decision to leave her home and family to travel to Shriners Children’s Ohio for Gael’s extensive care. There, he underwent months of treatment, including skin grafting, to heal his wounds.
little superheroes that fights through everything with a smile on his face,” said Katherine Au, M.D., a plastic surgeon at Shriners Children’s Southern California, where Gael now receives follow-up care. Although his medical journey is far from over, Gael and his family look toward his bright future because of the care and compassion they have received from Shriners Children’s. Josue’s journey began in 2002 after his house in Honduras caught fire because of an electrical short circuit. The accident left him with third degree burns over 75% of his body, and he lost his right hand. In 2010, his care was transferred to Shriners Children’s Boston, where his family found a team
dedicated to improving his health and confidence. Josue’s care included laser surgery, physical therapy, and tissue expansion. His team ensured his recovery addressed his physical and emotional needs, providing patient-centered support at every step. Shriners Children’s is known globally for advancing pediatric burn care. At our locations which are verified by the American Burn Association and the American College of Surgeons, care teams provide holistic services, including acute and reconstructive surgeries, psychological support, and therapies, to help children regain mobility and confidence. From telemedicine consultations
families like Gael’s and Josue’s have access to the care they need, regardless of their ability to pay. Today, Gael and Josue are thriving. Gael loves spending time with his family and playing soccer and dancing, while Josue is studying to become an industrial engineer. Their families remain grateful for the compassionate care they received. “The care and support Shriners Children’s has provided has been a blessing to my family,” said Yoselin. Their journeys of healing and resilience are a testament to the impact of Shriners Children’s care–and the kindness of those who make it possible.
Your support allows Shriners Children’s Hospital to continue providing
innovative, compassionate, and world-renowned burn care. Thanks to your generosity, children like Gael and Josue are rewriting their stories with courage, strength, and joy. •
In 2024, Shriners Children’s produced and delivered 59,431 Orthotics and Prosthetics to our patients.
“Not many 3-year-olds are as brave as Gael. He is one of our
to transportation services, Shriners Children’s ensures
GAEL, AGE 3
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For families facing a scoliosis diagnosis, the journey has long been filled with repeated surgeries, challenging recoveries, and countless anxious moments. But thanks to an outstanding care team and your compassion and generosity, Shriners Children’s has spent the past ten years pioneering and transforming the landscape of scoliosis care with the innovative MAGEC (MAGnetic Expansion Control) Spinal Bracing and Distraction System. Since performing the first MAGEC surgery in the United States at Shriners Children’s Philadelphia, many children have a brighter future through this innovative and advanced technology. Unlike traditional growing rods, which require multiple invasive surgeries to accommodate a child’s growth, the MAGEC system involves a single implantation surgery followed by non-invasive adjustments. Using an external remote control that leverages magnets, doctors can lengthen the rods without additional incisions or anesthesia, reducing risks and stress for young patients and their families. This breakthrough technology means fewer hospital stays, less time away from school and play, and significantly reduced medical complications. It allows children to focus on living their lives rather than enduring repeated surgeries and recoveries.
The MAGEC system is a game-changer in early-onset scoliosis care, our Shriners Children’s surgeons say.
These advancements would not be possible without you, our committed donor. Because of you, children can stand tall and dream big. •
LEADING INNOVATION Your support facilitates innovation that helps children thrive.
LOCATIONS OFFER THE
SPINAL SURGERIES OR PROCEDURES IN 2024
MAGEC SYSTEM PROCEDURES IN 2024
MAGEC SYSTEM TECHNOLOGY*
HUNTER, AGE 5
*Across 13 states and Canada
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PROVIDING HOPE AND HEALING You make miracles possible.
Born in Guatemala with a severe facial anomaly, Raquel entered the world with a facial cleft so large she could fit her tiny fist inside. Her mother, Hilcy, searched tirelessly for help, but the complexity of Raquel’s condition left many doctors unsure of how to proceed. Everything changed when she arrived at Shriners Children’s Ohio, where a team of expert surgeons and caregivers welcomed her with open arms. Raquel’s surgery was anything but ordinary. The medical team reconstructed her skull, moved her eyes closer together, created a nose, and built a functioning mouth — all in one groundbreaking procedure. The complexity was staggering, but the mission was clear: to give Raquel the chance to live a full and joyful life. Now, thanks to the skill and compassion of her care team, Raquel can do ordinary things that once seemed impossible. She loves playing dress-up, blowing kisses, and enjoying foods she once could not eat — pizza, french fries, and pasta! Once fearful of how the world would see her daughter, Hilcy now beams with pride. “I am honored that Hilcy trusted me with her daughter and thankful that I could live up to that trust. I have great hopes that Raquel has a wonderful life, now that people can focus not on her face but her amazing spirit and personality,” shared Chris Gordon, M.D., a craniofacial surgeon at Shriners Children’s Ohio. Raquel’s story is proof of the life-changing impact you make possible. Because of your kindness, she has a future filled with confidence, laughter, and limitless potential. Thank you for giving children like Raquel the opportunity to reach for their dreams. •
I have great hopes that Raquel has a wonderful life, now that people can focus not on her face but her amazing spirit and personality.” DR. GORDON Shriners Children’s Ohio
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RAQUEL, AGE 4
Our Locations
You make it possible for Shriners Children’s to provide specialty care to children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate, regardless of the families’ ability to pay or insurance status.
CLINICAL PROCEDURES
In 2024, Shriners Children’s cared for children from 50 states and 128 countries .
LIFE-CHANGING SURGERIES
Chihuahua
Tampa POPS Headquarters
REHAB PROCEDURES
Monterrey
Culiacán
Guadalajara
Orthopedics Cleft Lip and Palate Spinal Cord Injury * Outpatient care only; necessary inpatient care provided at an affiliated facility Burn Care
TELEHEALTH ENCOUNTERS
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INSPIRING CARE You fuel dreams that change lives.
Kandace Stratton was 11 years old when she first walked through the doors of Shriners Children’s Lexington. Diagnosed with scoliosis, she spent time in a restrictive brace, and at 14, she underwent spinal fusion surgery. Yet, through the warmth and compassion of her care team, Shriners Children’s became more than just a hospital; it became a family. Now, nearly two decades later, Kandace is the nurse manager of surgical services, overseeing the very place where she once healed. “Having scoliosis led me to this job and this career that I love,” Kandace said. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Her personal experience allows her to connect deeply with her patients, offering a unique level of empathy and reassurance. “When they are in pain, and I say, ‘I know how you feel,’ I really mean it,” she shared. “I’ve been in their shoes, and they can see where I am now. That gives them hope.” For Dr. Nahomi Barragan-Carmona, hope came in the form of critical burn care at Shriners Children’s Northern California. As a teenager, she suffered a kitchen accident that left her with burns over 70% of her body. Local doctors in Mexico told her
family there was nothing they could do to help. But thanks to Shriners Children’s and her physician, David Greenhalgh, M.D., then chief of burns at the hospital, Nahomi received care that saved her life and inspired her future. “The physical scars don’t even matter when you know your child is alive and emotionally healthy,” her father once wrote in his journal. Determined to pay it forward, Nahomi became a physician and recently returned to Shriners Children’s to further her training in burn care. She is passionate about bringing this new knowledge back to emergency departments in Mexico to improve burn treatment. “Dr. Greenhalgh and the team at Shriners Children’s saved my life,” she said. “Now, I want to save others.” The amazing care these women received at Shriners Children’s inspired their journeys from patient to caregiver. Your generosity doesn’t just fund medical care; it fuels dreams. Because of you, children facing the most difficult challenges can grow up to change lives—just like Kandace and Nahomi. •
KANDACE STRATTON
DR. NAHOMI BARRAGAN-CARMONA
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Siblings Max, Chase, and Olivia are thriving today, but their journey started with uncertainty. All three have a rare genetic disorder affecting their hands, specifically their thumbs. When the eldest, Max, was born with his particular anomaly, three thumbs on one hand and two on the other, parents Tess and Scott faced overwhelming fear and many questions. From Max’s first appointment in 2003 to Olivia’s final surgery in 2024, the family has experienced the extraordinary power of continuity of care. Charles Goldfarb, M.D., an internationally renowned hand surgeon at Shriners Children’s, has been with them every step of the way, performing 18 life-changing surgeries over the past two decades. His deep understanding of their medical and emotional needs has given them confidence and comfort. “It helps us know we are absolutely doing the right thing for our children by keeping them with the same doctor who has taken care of them from the beginning,” Tess said. “With each of the children needing multiple procedures, it was vital that the surgeon performing them knew their case well to give them the best outcome in the end.” CULTIVATING A LEGACY OF CARE You help us attract and retain top medical talent to bring continuity to care. Then, they found Shriners Children’s St. Louis.
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SHRINERS CHILDREN’S 2024 Financial Highlights
VICTOR, AGE 10
CHASE, AGE 14
I was able to tour the hospital, and I was instantly hooked. Seeing is believing, and we are honored to support the care for children.”
transforming young lives. The stability these experienced and innovative professionals provide is critical, as long-term, specialized care fosters trust, reduces anxiety and ensures that each child receives the best possible treatment, taking into account their in-depth medical history. Thank you for investing in professionals dedicated to the mission of Shriners Children’s. Because of you, families like Tess and Scott’s are treated by world class, committed and caring surgeons. • It helps us know we are absolutely doing the right thing for our children by keeping them with the same doctor who has taken care of them from the beginning.” TESS
TOTAL FUNDS DONATED BY OUR GENEROUS SUPPORTERS
– DON, SHRINERS SUPPORTER
In 2024, Shriners Children’s invested nearly $1.19 billion in support of pediatric specialty healthcare, including patient programs, research, education, and beyond. 75% PATIENT CARE 25% ADMINISTRATION & FUNDRAISING Donors like you invested generously in our mission, resulting in the most successful fundraising year in our 100+-year history. Because of YOU, we served more kids than ever before in 2024.
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES
Your support enables Shriners Children’s to recruit and retain world-class specialists dedicated to
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Thanks to your unwavering generosity, we continue to push the boundaries of pediatric healthcare, giving children the chance to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. These stories—and countless others— show how donors came together this year to provide the most amazing care anywhere. Annabelle Foundation In 2024, the Annabelle Foundation generously committed to magnify the impact of contributions by matching donor gifts. A total of 527,742 donors made a gift to these campaigns. Thank you for demonstrating the power of a collective spirit of generosity! Million Dollar Gift A grateful former patient recently donated $1 million to Shriners Children’s Portland. Born with club feet, he received treatment at the hospital as a child. Now 88 years old, he attributes his fulfilling life to Shriners, stating he wouldn’t be where he is today without their care. “His donation is a testament to the amazing care we’ve provided for over 100 years,” said Angie Gofredo, senior director of philanthropy. An Enduring Family Legacy The Walter A. and Charlotte Soule Family Foundation stands as a living tribute to a couple whose lives were defined by humility, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to others. Their legacy continues through the work of the Foundation and the countless lives touched by their vision. For more than 25 years, the Soule Family Foundation has directed support to Shriners Children’s Salt Lake City; and, in 2024, made its most significant contribution, establishing a $2,850,000 endowment. The largest donor-funded endowment supporting Shriners Children’s Salt Lake City, Soule Family Foundation Endowed Fund will provide enduring support for children and their families. Shriners Children’s is truly grateful to stand among the beneficiaries of the Soule Family Foundation’s extraordinary generosity. •
HANNAH, AGE 12
Donors supported Shriners Children’s in 2024
Sustaining donors who contribute monthly gifts
First-time donors in 2024
Hope & Healing Society donors gave at a leadership level
Dream Makers Legacy Society members included Shriners Children’s in their estate plans
SHAPING THE FUTURE FOR SHRINERS CHILDREN’S You secure a bright future for our patients.
WALTER AND CHARLOTTE SOULE
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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
SPOKANE
PORTLAND
SALT LAKE CITY
TWIN CITIES
TEXAS
TWIN CITIES — Children aged 5 to 14 with limb differences enjoyed a three-day adventure camp filled with fun challenges. Held at our clinic in Woodbury, the camp was available for patients who had seen a Shriners Children’s doctor in the past year. TEXAS — Donors Jim and Susan Clawson shared their passion for philanthropy at December’s Naming Opportunity Kickoff Event. They discussed why they support Shriners Children’s Texas and how their giving impacts the hospital and makes a meaningful difference in their lives and the community. NORTHERN CALIFORNIA — Katelyn and her family attended the Denim & Diamonds Gala in April at Oak Farm Vineyards in Lodi, California. She shared her journey as a patient with spina bifida and the life-changing care she received at IMPROVING THE LIVES OF CHILDREN Community Events
ST. LOUIS
PHILADELPHIA
CHICAGO
ERIE
SPOKANE — Shriners Children’s Spokane celebrated its 100 years of life-changing care with a special gala in September, reflecting on its humble beginnings and envisioning a bright future ahead. Pictured from left to right are Imperial Sir Matthew (Matt) Sturlaugson, Imperial Potentate Richard Burke, Chairman of the Board of Trustees Leslie “Doc” Stewart, and Imperial Sir Dale Vrsalovich. PHILADELPHIA — Shriners Children’s Philadelphia hosted Fin-Raise for Love at Adventure Aquarium in September 2024, bringing together 500 guests to celebrate our mission. The event raised an incredible $411,000 to support life changing care for our patients.
Shriners Children’s Northern California. The event raised $75,000 to support local patients receiving treatment at the hospital. PORTLAND — The inaugural Shriners Children’s Northwest Classic took place in May 2024 at the Nile Shrine Golf Course near Seattle. The event benefitted the Portland and Spokane hospitals and brought together patient families, community partners, and supporters for 18 holes, on-course games, and a celebratory sendoff from hospital administrators. CHICAGO — In June, Shriners International members and donors attended the 2024 Leadership Conference in Chicago. Highlights included inspirational patient stories, informative updates, and hospital tours led by our incredible patient ambassadors.
at Shriners Children’s St. Louis in September 2024. This carnival-style celebration brought together patients, families, staff, donors, and Shriners to honor 100 years of the hospital’s mission. SALT LAKE CITY — Shriners Children’s Salt Lake City hosted its annual patient holiday event in December with a “12 Days of Christmas” theme. Patients enjoyed festive games and a surprise visit from Santa. Our partners Kent’s Market, Associated Food Stores, and Swire Coca-Cola donated $40,000 and gifted Coca-Cola polar bears to every patient. ERIE — Shriners Children’s Erie hosted its second annual snow-tubing event in February 2024 at Peek’n Peak Resort in New York. Patients with limb differences and other specific diagnoses enjoyed a fun-filled day on the slopes, followed by
ST. LOUIS — Seven-year-old patient Camille took to the dance floor at The Amazing Care Family Affair
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SHREVEPORT
LEXINGTON
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
OHIO
NEW ENGLAND
HAWAI’I
GREENVILLE
CANADA
BOSTON
BOSTON — The fifth annual Boston Haunted Walk offered fun for all ages. This year’s event exceeded its fundraising goal, raising over $519,000. All proceeds support world-class pediatric burn care, reconstructive plastic surgery, and cleft lip and palate care at Shriners Children’s Boston. SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — In November, Shriners Children’s Southern California hosted its inaugural Thank-a-Donor Day, celebrating the generosity of its supporters. The event was filled with gratitude, smiles, and heartfelt appreciation from our team. GREENVILLE — The 5th Annual Turkey Trot and Roll took place in November at Trailblazer Park in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. Participants enjoyed a family fun walk and 5K, with all proceeds
LEXINGTON – Shriners Children’s Lexington raised nearly $10,000 at its third annual Art with Heart event, a patient art auction. The creativity of these talented young artists will help support even more children receiving life-changing care. CANADA – The annual Shriners Children’s Canada golf tournament held in August raised $680,000. The proceeds will help replace essential, cutting-edge machinery for safe medical imaging. •
lunch and presentations that fostered confidence, independence, and connections with families sharing similar experiences. SHREVEPORT — The Shriners Children’s Shreveport Gala, held in October, brought guests together at the Horseshoe Hotel and Casino for a night of generosity. The silent auction and paddle raise helped the event fundraise an impressive $145,592 in support of Shriners Children’s Shreveport. NEW ENGLAND — Cheers for Children, held in October, treated guests to an evening of food and drink from the region’s top restaurants, breweries, wineries, and distilleries. This 21+ event brought the community together to support Shriners Children’s New England, with all proceeds benefiting patient care.
supporting Shriners Children’s Greenville and its world-class treatment for children with over 85 different orthopedic conditions. OHIO — Shriners Children’s Ohio hosted its annual celebration at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, with more than 300 Shriners in attendance. Guests heard hospital updates and inspiring patient stories, including a performance by Kennedy, a young saxophonist who lost her instrument in a house fire and received a new one from a generous Shriner. HAWAI’I – In November, Shriners Children’s Hawai‘i hosted a donor mahalo reception to celebrate the generosity of its supporters. Guests enjoyed live jazz music, delicious food, hospital tours, and heartfelt remarks from hospital leadership. The evening concluded with a special keiki performance.
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SHRINERS CHILDREN’S | OFFICE OF PHILANTHROPY 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive | Tampa, FL 33607 | 844-739-0849 | stewardship@shrinenet.org Scan the QR code above to view a digital version of the report.
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