Shriners Hospital for Children in Montreal Celebrates 100 Years

Montreal’s Shriners Hospital for Children is celebrating a significant milestone: its 100th anniversary. The hospital, known for its dedication to pediatric care, has been a beacon of hope for countless children and families since its establishment in 1924. The hospital’s impact is vividly illustrated through the stories of its patients, including that of Natalie Cinman, who has been associated with the facility since birth.

Cinman was diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta, commonly referred to as brittle bone disease. She recalls her early struggles, facing multiple fractures and health challenges. “They didn’t know what the outcome would be for me, but they said ‘if she does survive a couple of days, there is a hospital,’” Cinman shared in a recent interview. Her journey at Shriners included numerous treatments and surgeries, but a pivotal moment came at age 12 when she was among the first to receive a groundbreaking treatment that improved her bone density.

“I became more independent, stronger, able to weight bear,” Cinman explained. “Walking wasn’t such a physical therapy anymore, but more of just the day-to-day life.” Today, as a thriving 42-year-old, she proudly identifies as the hospital’s original patient ambassador, inspiring younger patients like nine-year-old Easton, who is also living with brittle bone disease and has suffered over 50 fractures.

Easton’s spirit remains unbroken despite the challenges he faces. “My rods are kind of bent right now. So, I got to get them fixed so I can walk,” he remarked about his journey. With metal rods inserted in his limbs, he expresses confidence in his medical team’s ability to support his recovery.

The care provided at Shriners is holistic, addressing both the medical and emotional needs of young patients and their families. Androniki Tsoybariotis, nurse manager of Easton’s unit, emphasizes the importance of comprehensive care. “We take a lot of time in caring for the family and the patient,” she stated, highlighting the tailored support provided to children at various developmental stages.

In addition to direct patient care, Tsoybariotis and her team ensure parents receive guidance on how to care for their children post-surgery. “A child that is preschool age and a teenager does not require the same needs, does not need the same information, and will not have care provided to them in the same fashion,” she explained.

As the Chairman of the Board of Governors at Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada, Gary McKeown acknowledges the hospital’s evolution over the past century. “The evolution from 1925 to today in the new hospital, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary, being in this facility – it’s not just about the patients or the healthcare. It’s about the volunteers. It’s about the donors over those years,” he noted, reflecting on the collaborative efforts that have shaped the institution.

With a century of service behind it, the Shriners Hospital for Children in Montreal looks forward to continuing its mission of healing and support for many more years. The shared experiences of patients and staff alike embody the spirit of resilience and compassion that defines this landmark institution.