Editor's Note: This piece is written in Bernadette's own words to share her genuine sentiment toward the level of care she received at Shriners Children's St. Louis.
I was born with significant birth defects affecting my head, neck and spine. Without delving too deeply into medical terminology, here’s what this meant for me: My soft spots didn’t close properly and required surgical repair. The vertebrae in my neck were deformed and fused, leaving me with limited mobility and a shortened appearance, and my spine was a twisted mess, missing one vertebra and another deformed. Doctors told my parents a grim prognosis – that I’d likely never roll over, talk or walk.
But with the unwavering love of my parents and the expertise of incredible doctors, I defied the odds. I grew into a fairly “normal” kid. I played with friends, rode my bike and even played the flute. Yet, behind the scenes, my family struggled. My father worked tirelessly, but money was tight, and my mounting medical bills weighed heavily on us. I faced health challenges beyond what I’ve described, but these were the ones that defined my journey to Shriners Children’s.
One day, at a clinic my mom brought me to in grade school, they discovered just how severe my spinal curvature had become. My twisted spine was compressing my organs, leaving my lungs unable to fully expand – only 60% capacity. They referred us to Shriners Children’s St. Louis, and it was there that my life truly began to change.
At first, my dad struggled to accept help – his pride made it hard to reconcile needing charity. But at Shriners Children’s, we experienced the purest form of compassion. From the moment we walked through their doors, a community of kindness embraced us. Every visit began with a small gesture of joy: children picking out a donated toy to take home. All our medical expenses – appointments, X-rays, tests, procedures, everything – were covered. Shriners Children’s worked through insurance, but any gaps were taken care of without question.
The team of renowned doctors monitored my spine for years, ensuring my care was tailored to me. Finally, when the time came, they performed a life-changing surgery to straighten my spine as much as possible. They used rods and screws to stabilize it and fused sections to prevent further twisting and damage to my organs. That surgery not only saved my health – it redefined my future.
To the parents out there wondering if Shriners Children’s is the right choice – trust them. They’ll exceed your expectations with love and compassion.
Their care extended far beyond the operating room. After my surgery, every child’s bed was made with a handmade quilt donated by volunteers. When my blanket needed replacing, a fresh one appeared instantly. My nurse remained by my side throughout the journey, creating a bond with my family we’d never forget. They even arranged accommodations for my parents so they could stay nearby during my recovery.
Thanks to Shriners Children’s, I didn’t just survive – I thrived. Today, I live a full, active life. I can cook, clean, garden, play with my dogs and excel in my career. Beyond that, I’ve accomplished things I never dreamed possible: I’ve hiked 14,000-foot mountains, cycled 150-mile rides, run marathons and competed in endurance events.
None of this would have been possible without Shriners Children’s St. Louis. Their generosity and the kindness of every donor, volunteer and staff member transformed my life. Every quilt stitched, every toy donated and every dollar given truly makes a difference.
And to those who can donate – please, do it. You have the power to change lives, just as they changed mine. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
To date, Bernadette has hiked 14,000-foot mountains. Here she is smiling in a mountainous terrain.
Bernadette smiles in her cap and gown after graduation.
Thanks to her pediatric orthopedic care at Shriners Children's St. Louis, Bernadette can hike. Here she stands in front of a wooden fence with mountains in the distance.
