At The Ledge, we love sharing stories that remind us what community care looks like in action. Danny Milam recently shared his heartfelt reflections on the work of Shriners Hospitals for Children.
A Legacy That Began in Shreveport
Shriners Hospitals for Children opened its first location in Shreveport, Louisiana over 100 years ago. Today, the network includes hospitals across the country, including one in St. Louis, Missouri, which has long served children from Tennessee and surrounding states.
These hospitals are charitable and family-centered. They never charge patients for care. Danny was moved by how they treat children with dignity, offering housing, meals, and even toys during treatment. One year, after a fire destroyed their toy storage, donations poured in so fast they couldn’t hold them all.
Research and Reach
Shriners Hospitals are known for their cutting-edge pediatric research. Each location studies conditions like:
- Scoliosis
- Club feet
- Cerebral palsy
- Cleft lip
- Dislocated hips
- Brittle bone disease (osteogenesis imperfecta)
- Neuromuscular diseases
- Burn scars
- Sports injuries
- Limb differences
Danny was especially touched by how children born with short limbs can undergo a series of surgeries that help them grow into proportionate limbs. It’s a powerful example of how science and compassion come together.
In 2025, Shriners announced a new pediatric research institute on the campus of Georgia Tech in Atlanta, backed by a $70 million startup investment. They’re not in competition with other hospitals like St. Jude. Instead, they collaborate and share findings to help more children.
Volunteers, Values, and Vision
The hospital in St. Louis has over 30 volunteers, all carefully vetted. Many board members serve voluntarily, and the organization emphasizes transparency and stewardship. Doctors are compensated, but the spirit of service runs deep. Danny noted that Shriners Hospitals for Children is consistently ranked among the most trusted and top-rated charities in the U.S., with headquarters in Tampa, Florida.
They’ve worked in all 50 states and over 120 countries. Families who travel far are supported with housing through partnerships like Ronald McDonald House.
“No man stands so tall as when he stoops to help a child.”
― Abraham Lincoln
How You Can Help
If you know a child who could benefit from care, Danny encourages you to call 1-800-237-5055 or visit https://www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org.
A Note on Masons and Shriners
To become a Shriner, one must first be a Mason. Masonry is the world’s oldest fraternity, rooted in the traditions of King Solomon’s temple. It’s not a religion, but members must believe in a supreme being. Tennessee alone has around 30,000 Masons. To become one, ask one!
