Masonic Youth Fundraises for Shriners Children's Chicago

Growing up, Gabby always felt a little bit different from everyone else.  “I had this pink mark on my face. That kind of set me apart,” Gabby admitted. Most children don’t know what it’s like to visit a medical facility every three months for surgery starting when they were 3. That’s what Gabby experienced due to a port wine stain birthmark around her eye. Gabby received laser surgery from the staff at Shriners Children’s, but ultimately, she gained so much more. Through the care of the staff, nurses and the broader Shriners community, Gabby felt a sense of belonging that she didn’t have anywhere else. 

When her father, a Mason, stumbled upon an Assembly by accident, Gabby was introduced to the Rainbow Girls. Gabby knew immediately that she wanted to join, a decision she attributed directly from her pediatric care, saying, “If it wasn’t for the Shriners and my medical experiences there, I never would have joined Rainbow.” 

Over the years, Gabby’s treatment empowered her and helped her build confidence. She was eventually elected to the Grand Line and served as the Grand Worthy Advisor, where she chose Shriners Children’s Chicago as her charity. “Being able to support the Shriners after all that they had done for me and everything I had seen them do for other kids; it was really incredible.” 

The Illinois Rainbow Girls all chipped in and seized the opportunity to be creative with fundraisers like car washes, mystery dinners and purse auctions. According to Gabby, even small actions helped: “It might not seem like it would bring in a lot of funds, but when you have fun with it, and involve a lot of people in a huge community, then it does have a huge impact.” 

The numbers back Gabby up. The state raised $12,000 to help the next generation access The Most Amazing Care Anywhere™. 

From an isolated young girl to a supportive and compassionate community uniting to change the lives of children. This is what Masonic Youth can do.   

You can join the movement, too, by starting your own fundraiser for Shriners Children’s. Visit fundraise.shrinerschildrens.org/masonicyouth to get started.