She doesn’t know a childhood without the staff at Shriners Children’s Salt Lake City playing a significant role. Born with two fingers fused together and missing the fibula bone in her left leg, she underwent surgeries at 15 months old that set her on a path to mobility and freedom. Her lower left leg was amputated, a digit from that foot was transferred to her hand and the fused fingers were separated.
After that, the team at Shriners Children’s provided the additional surgeries she needed as she grew and provided prosthetic legs throughout her childhood until she turned 18.
Now, over 30 years later, Brianna is living in Oregon, married and running a financial planning business with her brother. She has been a model for a cowboy boot brand and engages on social media with an audience that includes young amputees who are inspired by her confidence and full life.
Brianna enjoys the beach with her family shortly after her first surgery.
Brianna goes on a hike as an infant.
Brianna stands in the park with an early version of her prosthetic leg.
Brianna practices her gymnastics routine.
Brianna lives her best life in Oregon, where she supports the Portland Walk for LOVE.
Brianna and her husband experience the Northern Lights.
Brianna models her cowboy hat.
I owe everything to Shriners Children’s and the team. From my amputation and all the way until I was 18, they took care of all my surgeries and all my prosthetic legs.
When Brianna looks back on her time as a Shriners Children’s patient, she remembers never feeling any stress about going there. “I loved going to that hospital. Everyone was always so nice and friendly. There were always activities for kids, the whole experience seemed to be designed for my peace of mind, as a child.”
Brianna knows she is one of nearly 2 million children that Shriners Children’s has helped worldwide, and is honored to support the healthcare system any way she can. “I have endless great things to say about Shriners Children's hospital. Not only what have they done for me and my family, but for children across the world,” she said.
Brianna has a message for Shriners Children’s patients: “You can do anything you set your mind to. Be strong. Be Positive. Be you!”
Brianna has been named a Patient Ambassador for the 2025 Shriners Children’s Portland Walk for LOVE. “My heart is filled with joy. I’m honored. I’ve been wanting to do something with Shriners Children’s for so long; I’m grateful for everything they’ve done for me and my family,” she said.
The event attracts many patients and their families, and Brianna is grateful for the opportunity to show children with disabilities that a full, meaningful life is possible for them. “I don’t let anything hold me back. I really want others to feel that way too.”
Meet Brianna and other former and current patients at the Shriners Children's Portland Walk for LOVE at the Oregon Zoo on September 6, 2025.
