Shriners Hospitals for Children sent over the details about their float titled, "Helping Kids Live their Dreams" that will be in this year's Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year's Day. Riding on the float will be representatives from Shriners International as well as patients who exemplify the hospital's mission and embody the Tournament of Roses' theme, "Oh the Places You'll Go!" The 2013 Shriners Hospitals for Children float was decorated by the riders, as well as patients from Shriners Hospital for Children – Los Angeles. Here are details about two of the participants:
Carrie Holmstrom, age 23, had surgery to remove both her feet and all the fingers on her right hand following a car accident six years ago. She awoke from a medically induced coma and within eight months took her first steps on artificial legs she received at Shriners Hospitals for Children — Springfield (Mass.). Carrie, who lives in Houston, recently ran her first 5K.
Hunter Woodhall, age 13, was born with a lower limb deficiency that required surgery to remove both his feet. At just 11 months old, he was fitted with artificial legs at Shriners Hospitals for Children — Tampa and quickly walked on them. Hunter and his family moved to Utah, where he grew to become an accomplished athlete. Specialists at Shriners Hospitals for Children – Salt Lake City offered several orthopaedic options to allow him more flexibility in sports. Hunter excels on the basketball court, football field and wrestling mat, and is an avid runner, skier and swimmer. You can find information about the hospital here.
