SMILES

Does anybody have any info on the Shriner's hospital in St. Louis? We had Jackson's cleft repaired here in Birmingham, but now we have an orthopedic issue, and it has been suggested that we go to a specialist in St. Louis. If you have any experience with this hospital or just traveling out of state for surgery, please let me know how it went. I'm just a little weary of going that far away for surgery. It seems like it would be pretty crazy! But we all want the best for our little ones, so I will do whatever! Thanks!
Allison

Hi Allison, Shortly after our daughter was born we went to Chicago Ill. Shriner's facility. They do orthopedics and cleft lip and palate. We went to have our daughter's cleft situation reviewed and to see if we wanted treatment there. I have to say I was very impressed with both the expertise and the information they shared with us. Ultimately our decision not to go with them was due to location. The experience on our "assessment" days (2), involved a lot of waiting to see the various specialists; during this time we met with a lot of parents and their children. I am glad we went (and that we packed things to keep our little one busy). I wish you the best in your decision making. Heide

My daughter was seen at Shriner's in St. Louis. They were so nice and so professional. What we had to do was get an actual Shriner member to sponsor her. So i would start looking and asking whoever you know if they would sponsor your child. They have a specific form that has to be filled out and sent into the hospital with a doctor's referral as well. She will be returning there shortly to have her legs rechecked. Good luck.