Jett first became a patient at Shriners Children’s Philadelphia in 2024 after he was diagnosed with idiopathic juvenile scoliosis from a local doctor. When his mother, Nicole, needed more information, she looked elsewhere for specialized care. Soon, they were scheduled for an appointment with Josh Pahys, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon at Shriners Children’s Philadelphia. Jett was measured for a scoliosis brace with our Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services (POPS) department staff, which he wears every night. He attends frequent appointments with Dr. Pahys to ensure his curve is not progressing.
In addition to a scoliosis diagnosis, Jett and his family were in search of answers to the pain he was experiencing in other parts of his body. Richard Goldberg, D.O., physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, found the causes of the pain affecting Jett’s knees and heels. He diagnosed Jett with Sever's disease and Osgood-Schlatter disease. Sever’s disease affects the growth plates in the heels, and Osgood-Schlatter disease causes knee pain in growing adolescents. As discomfort persisted despite treatment, Jett was additionally diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which explained the recurrent pain he was feeling in his joints.
Dr. Goldberg said, “Jett is a resilient patient who is a model Patient Ambassador for Shriners Children's. He makes a positive impact on the hospital both through his care packages and his fundraising efforts. His kindness and dedication is admirable, and I know he will go far in all his pursuits.” Jett and his family are grateful for the care received at our hospital. Nicole said, “From day one, the incredible doctors and staff wrapped our family in compassion, expertise and hope. They didn’t just treat Jett’s conditions – they saw his strength, encouraged his spirit and supported our entire family.”
Sharing my story helps other kids know they’re not alone.
Jett is a new Patient Ambassador at Shriners Children’s Philadelphia, meaning he is a leader for other patients in our hospital and in his local community. His enthusiasm for this new role is inspiring, and he takes his new responsibilities seriously. He recently filmed a Shriners Children’s commercial, as well as the 100th Anniversary video for our hospital. He prides himself on helping other children through handmade and assembled care packages during the holidays and various other times throughout the year.
In addition to care packages, he also raised over $3,000 for our hospital. Jett said, “Sharing my story helps other kids know they’re not alone. If I can make even one kid smile or feel brave, then I’m doing something really important.” His dedication to spreading awareness of his conditions – as well as bringing joy to other patients at the hospital – proves his utmost commitment to the Shriners Children’s mission.
When not assembling care packages or holding fundraisers, Jett enjoys playing baseball, swimming, singing in his school’s choir, coloring and drawing. Swimming has especially helped him put his scoliosis and arthritis pain at ease. We look forward to seeing all Jett will accomplish in the future, as he continues to spread awareness of his journey and engage in future philanthropic efforts.
