Key Takeaways:
- Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada is celebrating its 100th anniversary of providing specialized care to children with complex orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions.
- The hospital has grown into a world-renowned centre for orthopedic care, research, and innovation, with a focus on patient-centered care and innovative treatments.
- The hospital has made significant breakthroughs in research, particularly for rare bone disorders such as osteogenesis imperfecta, and has developed world-first treatments.
- The hospital’s "Shriners magic" comes from a culture of generosity and care, with a focus on bringing research and education to the bedside to provide the most innovative care.
- The hospital is looking to the future, with a focus on continuing to serve patients and families, and advancing innovation, research, and clinical care.
Introduction to Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada
Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada is marking a major milestone this year, celebrating 100 years of providing specialized care to children with complex orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions. Founded in 1925 in Montreal, the hospital was created to help children affected by polio and other serious conditions, regardless of their ability to pay. Over the past century, it has grown into a world-renowned centre for orthopedic care, research, and innovation. The hospital’s commitment to providing high-quality care to children in need has made it a beloved institution in Canada, and its reputation extends far beyond the country’s borders.
A Century of Hope and Healing
Gary McKeown, chairman of the board of governors, reflected on the hospital’s long history, noting that it is "fantastic" to have survived 100 years. He also highlighted the hospital’s move to its current location beside the McGill University Health Centre’s Glen Campus 10 years ago as another important milestone. The hospital’s new location has made a significant difference for patients and staff, providing a state-of-the-art facility that is equipped to meet the complex needs of its patients. McKeown’s comments underscore the hospital’s commitment to providing the best possible care to its patients, and its dedication to staying at the forefront of medical innovation.
The Public Face of Care
McKeown also emphasized the role of the Shriners organization in promoting the hospital, noting that the Shriners are the "public image" of the hospital. The Shriners, with their distinctive fezzes, are a familiar sight in Montreal, and their presence helps to raise awareness about the hospital and its mission. McKeown noted that the Shriners are often recognized and thanked by people who have been helped by the hospital, and that this public recognition is an important part of the hospital’s identity. The Shriners’ role in promoting the hospital is a testament to the strong bond between the organization and the hospital, and highlights the importance of community engagement and outreach in promoting the hospital’s mission.
Innovative Treatments and Global Impact
The hospital has also been a leader in research, particularly for rare bone disorders such as osteogenesis imperfecta, or brittle bone disease. Kelly Thorstad, acting hospital administrator, highlighted some of the hospital’s breakthroughs, including the development of a treatment protocol for osteogenesis imperfecta that is now used around the world. Thorstad also noted that the hospital has developed innovative treatments, such as the FASI Duval rod, which has enabled children with osteogenesis imperfecta to walk. The hospital’s commitment to research and innovation has had a significant impact on the lives of its patients, and has helped to establish it as a world leader in the field of orthopedic care.
A Patient’s Perspective
For patients, the hospital is a place of comfort and reassurance. Charlotte Cau, who recently had surgery for scoliosis, shared her experience, noting that the hospital staff "take good care" of her and provide her with the right medication and support. She also praised the hospital environment, saying that "everyone here is kind" and that the staff "help a lot all the time." Charlotte’s comments highlight the importance of patient-centered care, and the need for hospitals to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for their patients. The hospital’s focus on patient-centered care is a key part of its mission, and is essential to providing the best possible outcomes for its patients.
Looking to the Next 100 Years
As the hospital celebrates a century of service, staff are focused on the future. Thorstad noted that the hospital wants to continue serving all the patients and families that it can, and to continue advancing innovation, research, and clinical care. McKeown encouraged families in the community to reach out to the hospital, saying "come on down and see us and if you need some help, call us. We’ll take care of you and it doesn’t matter where you are, we’re here to help." The hospital’s commitment to its mission and its patients is clear, and its focus on the future is a testament to its dedication to providing the best possible care to children in need. As the hospital looks to the next 100 years, it is well-positioned to continue its tradition of excellence and innovation, and to make a positive impact on the lives of countless children and families.