'What Happens Next Is Up to You': Maci’s Story

Maci was 16 when she was trapped in a house fire in the middle of the night.

She was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital via MedFlight and then transported to Shriners Children’s Boston, where she stayed for a month for the treatment of severe second- and third-degree burns.

Now 28, Maci is a business owner and the proud mom of a 3-year-old son. “If you asked me 12 years ago where I’d be now, all of this would have seemed impossible,” she said. “I’m grateful for where I am, where my story has taken me, and the person that Shriners Children’s has shaped me to be because of the care and support I had when I needed it the most.”

In addition to the burn injuries Maci sustained in the fire, she also had extensive smoke inhalation injuries and needed to remain on a ventilator. She underwent multiple skin graft surgeries on her back as soon as her condition was stable. It was an overwhelming and difficult time for Maci’s entire family, as they navigated her hospitalization while also facing the loss of their home and belongings. The comprehensive, compassionate care she received gave them hope and comfort. “My doctors explained everything in depth and helped my family make the best decisions for me,” Maci said. “I was taken care of every step of the way.”

While Maci will forever be grateful for the medical care she received at Shriners Children’s Boston, she credits her child life specialist, Christen, with helping her recover from the mental impact of such a traumatic event. Child life specialists are an integral part of a patient’s care team, providing psychosocial support through age-appropriate interactions and activities. “She pushed me to be better and continue my fight, even on the hardest of days,” Maci said. “She is the most supportive and gentle person I’ve ever met.”

Child life specialists also provide support to patient families, helping build trust and understanding during a time of great uncertainty. Christen identified resources for Maci’s family to replace household items lost in the fire. She also secured clothing donations, something Maci will never forget. “She brought all of the clothes to my room, but because I couldn’t wear them yet, she did an entire fashion show for me,” recalled Maci. “We have remained in contact and still talk about it 12 years later.”