Shriners is the first civic organization that comes to mind when I think of an association which personally impacted my life. I like to think that I also contributed to the organization, even if my efforts will never compare to the help Shriners has provided me. Nearly four years ago when I was a patient at Shriners Hospital of Philadelphia, I realized the impact a smiling face could have on someone who is experiencing much discomfort, both physically and emotionally. I decided to help make blankets with a girl from my hometown for patients at the hospital. These blankets were then distributed to several children at the facility to represent a small symbol of comfort. After develping an appreciation for the work of the organization, I developed a dream to work at Shriners in the future.…show more content… Before I had scoliosis surgery, my family and I were nervous about the possible risks of the operation. The team of caregivers at Shriners helped to pacify our nerves by providing statistics as well as making us laugh in a time of distress. The organization is responsible for my corrected spine. If the association did not exist, my family would not have been able to afford the cost of the procedure. Because of the people who contribute to Shriners, my family did not have to pay the full price as they worked around my parents's income. I am healthy and alive because of
