Former Shriners Children’s Boston Patient Encourages Other Burn Survivors to Embrace Their Journey

Sienna was just two years old when an accidental spill of boiling honey resulted in second and third degree burns on her leg, hand and torso.

Living in Ontario, Canada, Sienna’s family sought treatment at Shriners Children’s Boston after a lengthy stay at a Canadian hospital.

Now 21, Sienna has advice and encouragement to share with other burn survivors as she reflects on the care she received throughout her childhood. “My journey through burn treatment has been long and sometimes difficult, but it has also been filled with support, resilience and moments of joy,” she said. “Your experiences, no matter how challenging, have shaped who you are and the person you will become. Embrace your story and the strength you have gained from it.”

The youngest of four children, Sienna’s burn injury occurred when her siblings were making breakfast early one morning. Her sister heated honey in the microwave for an extended time, causing a hole in the bottom of the container. When Sienna’s sister removed the jar with oven mitts and discovered the container had melted, she ran into a nearby bedroom, where Sienna and her mother were still sleeping. As she attempted to hand the container to her mother, the hot liquid spilled on Sienna.

Upon their arrival at the nearest emergency department, Sienna’s mother was told they would have to take an air ambulance to a children’s hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Sienna’s father, a mine manager, got an emergency radio call underground directing him to drive to the airport immediately. He arrived in time to meet Sienna and her mom on the tarmac. In Winnipeg, the family learned that Sienna had suffered second and third degree burns and required skin grafts.