GRATITUDE Kevin McLain has just embarked on a doctorate program in physical therapy at Touro University Nevada. After high school, he earned a bachelor of science degree in kinesiology and rehab science. Then he worked in a Kailua outpatient physical therapy clinic. When he decided to apply for graduate studies in physical therapy, he volunteered in Shriners’ rehab department. He cleaned and fixed wheelchairs and moved equipment to where it needed to be. He saw that it is often emotionally draining for Shriners patients to go through physical therapy, especially because they are away from home and most of their family. There are also cultural and language differences. “So bringing some levity to that situation can make their therapy a little more enjoyable,” he says, “and a little more manageable.” He talks about how well the school motto, Noblesse Oblige, lines up with what Shriners does. “Shriners provides care even if families can’t afford to pay,” he says. “That’s why a lot of those kids come from those Pacific Islands to Hawaii—because they can’t necessarily get that same level of treatment where they’re from, or their families can’t afford it there.” His volunteer work, he says, was a real eye-opening experience. “It makes you grateful for the things we do have, and the opportunities we have to make an impact on those who don’t have those kinds of opportunities.”
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FALL 2019
Q: Does Shriners Hospitals for Children – Honolulu treat any child?
A: Any child may receive care at our hospital. We
treat all conditions that affect bones, joints, and muscles, whether you are born with it or acquire it through injury, trauma or during development. Honolulu Shriners Hospital does not require any special sponsorship or referral. We accept any child up to 18 years of age.
Q: How can I have my child seen at Shriners Hospitals for Children – Honolulu?
A: We accept walk-in visits, referrals from doctors,
or can help to schedule an appointment at (808) 941-4466. We treat all kids with the highest quality of pediatric specialty care regardless of one’s ability to pay. We accept insurance, and also treat those without insurance.
Q: What makes Shriners Hospitals for Children – Honolulu so special?
A: Shriners Honolulu Hospital has been serving
Hawaii and the Pacific Basin for over 96 years. Recognized as one of the world’s greatest philanthropies, Honolulu Shriners Hospital is a state-of-the-art facility where all medical professionals involved in the patient’s care: from the surgeons, registered nurses, therapists, radiologists, to orthotics and pharmacists, are integrated within one facility and collaborate consistently throughout each treatment plan in order to provide the best possible care. Our social workers provide guidance in effectively navigating our care system so that parents and caregivers don’t have to do it alone.