Chicago, Illinois — A century after opening its doors to care for children during one of the nation’s most challenging public health crises, Shriners Children’s Chicago is celebrating 100 years of providing specialized medical care to young patients and their families.
Founded in 1926 by the Medinah Shriners of Chicago, the hospital has spent generations helping children with complex medical conditions, while maintaining a mission centered on compassion, innovation, and accessible care.
As the hospital marks its centennial anniversary, families and healthcare professionals are reflecting on the lasting impact it has had on countless lives.
Hospital Began During the Polio Epidemic
Shriners Children’s Chicago was originally established to provide free pediatric orthopedic care to children affected by the devastating polio epidemic.
Over the decades, advances in medicine dramatically changed the conditions most commonly treated at the hospital.
Today, physicians care for children with a wide range of orthopedic disorders, spinal conditions, neuromuscular diseases, and other complex medical needs.
Hospital leaders say that while medicine has evolved, their mission has remained remarkably consistent.
“We’re so proud that we’ve been on this campus helping kids in Chicago and around the world for 100 years,” said Kara Miller, the hospital’s marketing and communications manager.
She noted that the hospital once focused on illnesses such as polio and bone tuberculosis, diseases that have become far less common because of vaccines and medical advances.
“Things may have changed, but the foundation of helping children, helping their lives become better, that has stayed the same over decades.”
Families Celebrate the Care Their Children Receive
Among the families honoring the hospital’s milestone is Cassandra Graham, whose son James has received treatment there since he was only two weeks old.
James was diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta, commonly known as brittle bone disease, a rare genetic disorder that makes bones extremely fragile.
Graham said the care her son has received has gone far beyond medical treatment.
“They are so special to us,” Graham said. “They have treated our son, James, with the utmost care and respect since he’s been a patient here.”
For many families, the hospital provides not only specialized healthcare but also emotional support throughout long-term treatment.
Comprehensive Care Under One Roof
Doctors say one of the hospital’s greatest strengths is its ability to provide multiple services in one location.
Patients can meet with specialists, receive therapy, undergo evaluations, and coordinate ongoing care without traveling to multiple facilities.
Dr. Jeffrey D. Ackman said the integrated approach helps simplify treatment for families managing complex medical conditions.
“We’re like a one-stop shop. You can see the doctor here; you can get your therapy here.”
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He also emphasized the hospital’s long-standing commitment to treating every child, regardless of financial circumstances.
“We see kids regardless of their ability to pay.”
Looking Ahead to the Next Century
As Shriners Children’s Chicago celebrates its 100th anniversary, hospital leaders say they remain committed to expanding access to specialized pediatric care while continuing the mission that began a century ago.
The organization has cared for children from Chicago, across the United States, and around the world, helping countless families navigate difficult medical journeys.
While treatments and technology have advanced dramatically over the past 100 years, the hospital says its purpose remains unchanged: improving children’s lives through compassionate, high-quality care.
As the next century begins, staff, patients, and families continue celebrating a legacy built on service, hope, and the belief that every child deserves exceptional medical care.
What are your thoughts on hospitals that provide specialized care regardless of a family’s ability to pay? Share your thoughts and experiences respectfully in the comments below.
