Soft-Spoken Strength: Michelle’s Journey of Healing Through Creativity and Humor

As Michelle reflects on her decade-long burn care journey at Shriners Children’s Boston, she recounts the experience as “life-changing.”

A native of Belize, the 20-year-old is a talented artist, soft-spoken with an unexpected sense of humor.

Michelle’s memories of her burn injuries are foggy. “It was 2015, I was 9 and it was Good Friday,” said Michelle, who explained the religious day of observance is special for her mother, who makes a tasty fish soup for guests. “There was something that happened with the gas in the kitchen. I was close to the stove, and my hair first caught fire, and the flames quickly spread.”

Michelle sustained third-degree burns to nearly 50% of her body, and with the help of a local foundation in Belize, she was connected with Shriners Children’s Boston.

Due to the severity of her injuries, Michelle spent seven months in the hospital, celebrating major milestones there, like her tenth birthday. Through the compassionate, wrap-around care provided by staff, Michelle learned how to walk and write again.

The physical therapy team played a vital role in Michelle’s healing. Lori Connolly, DPT, PT, director of therapeutic services – whom Michelle described as “sweet and nice” – and Lori’s former colleague, Katie, were Michelle’s first rehabilitation therapists. Michelle said they brought out her playful side and helped her regain independence. Aware of Michelle’s interest in art, the physical therapy team utilized a hospital stairwell adorned with colorful murals of wildlife and sea creatures as part of her therapy routine. “When I was working on my legs during physical therapy, I would go up the stairs, and I loved seeing the paintings,” said Michelle.

One of Michelle’s first wishes after leaving Shriners Children’s Boston was to ride an MBTA train she often watched during physical therapy. “We would walk by the windows where the hospital elevators are, and you can see the trains from there. I remember always looking and wanting to go on them,” said Michelle. “When I finally made it onto a train, it was nice because we don’t have them back home in Belize.”

Michelle now returns to Shriners Children’s Boston once a year for treatment. She describes her care team as “supportive and like family. The physical therapy department is made up of great people who helped me let my guard down.” Her current physical therapist, Aimee Chiasson, DPT, PT, makes her feel comfortable during their sessions. “Every time I hang out with Aimee, I don’t feel shy. I look forward to our time together because I can joke around and we have the same sense of humor,” said Michelle.

Aimee has seen Michelle come into her own as a young adult, noting that she is always up for fun and a little mischief during their time together. “For me, engaging with Michelle has been natural. It’s been amazing watching her become more confident and become a mentor for other patients.”

Michelle participates regularly in hospital activities. Two of her favorites are Christmas in July, when Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by fire truck, and Team Brave, group outings for patients reintegrating into the community as they recover from burn injuries. Both are supported by volunteers from the Boston Firefighters Burn Foundation. “I wanted to get involved in Team Brave because it’s very inclusive. Even though some patients may not feel like they can participate in the event, everyone always makes them feel comfortable,” said Michelle.

Team Brave outings are coordinated by child life specialist Rebecca Wildes, MS, CCLS, another key member of Michelle’s support system. “Every time I am anxious about something, I ask Rebecca to come with me, even on trips to the operating room or appointments with needles, which make me nervous,” said Michelle. “Child life makes me feel more relaxed and at ease. They always put my focus on something else.”

“Michelle’s confidence has grown,” said Rebecca, who applauded her for fostering patient engagement during Team Brave outings. “Michelle helps participants feel more empowered.”

In her free time, Michelle enjoys spending time with family. She has many hobbies, including painting, drawing and swimming. Michelle started diving in 2021 and is excited to participate in an upcoming night dive off the coast of Belize. “It’s a whole different world when you’re underwater. You see all types of fish and coral; it’s like a forest. I remember once there were two huge walls of coral we swam through. I loved it!”

Michelle is grateful for the relationships she has formed at Shriners Children’s Boston and is reflective about her future. “There are lots of things I want to do, like work in the medical field and in burn care, so I can give back. Maybe by being a nurse. It’s just incredible what they do at Shriners Children’s Boston, and I’m very grateful.”