Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada Kicks Off Centennial Celebrations with a Special Event for its Local, National and International Community

This year marks a historic milestone for Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada as it proudly celebrates 100 years of transforming children’s lives through specialized pediatric care, groundbreaking research and a commitment to innovation.

Today, the hospital celebrates its legacy by uniting Patient Ambassadors and current patients to share their remarkable stories during a special day of activities showcasing the hospital’s profound impact on pediatric orthopedic care, research and education – locally, nationally and internationally. To underscore the hospital's commitment to helping children without regional boundaries, activities are being broadcast across 18 locations to recognize out-of-province patients and donors.

“To think that what began a century ago here in Montreal has grown into a world-class orthopedic pediatric healthcare institution is truly inspiring," said Gary McKeown, chair of the Board of Governors for Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada. "This milestone is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our medical teams, researchers and staff who provide exceptional care to children. It is also a reflection of the generosity and commitment of Shriners across Canada and the Northeastern United States, whose support for our hospital has made our work possible for 100 years. Their tireless efforts ensure that we continue to innovate, heal and give hope to our patients and their families.”

“For 100 years, Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada has been more than just a hospital – it has been a place of healing, discovery and hope. As we celebrate this milestone, we honor our employees, patients, families, physicians and donors who have shaped our incredible legacy and continue to inspire our future,” said Jacques Boissonneault, director general at Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada. “Our commitment to advancing pediatric orthopedic care, research and education remains unwavering, and we are ready to embark on the next century of innovation and person-centered care.”

At today’s press event to celebrate this milestone, the hospital honors its legacy through inspiring Patient Ambassadors like Jani Barré, author, athlete and Guinness World Record holder for fastest marathon in a non-racing wheelchair. Born with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), a rare bone disease that has resulted in 157 fractures throughout her life, Barré was treated at the hospital in the 1990s. Today, her goal is to inspire others to embrace their potential and believe in limitless possibilities, as she has done in her autobiography, 157 Fractures, A True Story.

“I spent half of my childhood at the Shriners Hospital. They saved my life. They've always been my second family,” Barré said.

Luca “Lazy Legz” Patuelli, a Patient Ambassador with arthrogryposis, worldwide performer and dancer, added: “What I love about Shriners is the incredible warmth and hospitality from both the staff and volunteers. Once you're in the hospital, the team creates an environment that makes you forget you're even in a hospital – it's that feeling of comfort and care that truly aids in the healing process."