Extending aid to ill children

Through Shriners Hospitals, orthopedists visit W-B General to evaluate, treat patients at no charge

WILKES-BARRE -- Shriners Hospitals for Children and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital held an outreach clinic Sunday that calmed jittery parents’ nerves and provided specialized care for the youngsters at no cost.

Drs. William Schrantz and Dean MacEwen, orthopedists from Shriners Hospital in Philadelphia, were on site to evaluate and treat patients. Members of the Irem Shrine Shepherd’s Unit and Clown Unit also attended in support of the cause.

Patients and families are never asked for any payment, and no insurance or third-party funds are accepted.

Bill Hardwick, Shriners Board of Governors member, said the outreach clinic has been a big success.

“When we first started the clinic three and a half years ago, we saw between eight and 12 kids. Now we are up to 20-40 kids per clinic,” he said.

Hardwick said he felt there were children and families in need that would benefit from the clinic coming to Wilkes-Barre.

“The concept is to bring staff and experts to our area to avoid travel. The program is twofold,” he said. “Staff is here to check the progress of existing patients, while also bringing new kids in for initial treatment.”

Olyphant resident Nicole McDonald brought her 20-month-old son Mason for a second opinion. Mason was previously diagnosed with cartilaginic dysplasia, an abnormal development of the cartilage, in his right leg.

“This worked out great because we didn’t have to travel to Danville or Philadelphia,” she said. She was pleased after seeing Schrantz, who concurred with the original diagnosis.

“These guys are wonderful. We appreciate all that they have done. At least, now I know we are on the right track with Mason,” she said. “And the Shriners are just wonderful people. They are so kind and helpful.”

Bear Creek resident Karen Keen came to the clinic after being referred by her pediatrician for a second opinion regarding possible scoliosis for her son Bradley, 10.

“It’s a huge benefit that the Shriners have come here,” she said. “Many people would have a hard time getting to Philadelphia, so it is great that they have come here and people don’t have to travel.”

According to MacEwen, the success of the clinic depends on the support of the Shriners, which he says has been outstanding.

“The Shepherd’s Unit is wonderful in that they transport patients free of charge,” he said. “I am very enthusiastic about the outreach clinic. It is a wonderful service that I am glad to be involved with.”

Paul Amos, Irem Shepherd’s Unit, made his way around the waiting room introducing himself and letting parents know that transportation is available to those in need.

Also on hand Sunday was Irem Shrine Clown Maurice Heater, aka “Abu Benny,” on site to cheer up kids in the waiting area.

In 2008, Shriners Hospitals for Children will spend about $1.975 million each day, or $23 per second, to provide medical care at no charge to patients. Eighteen of the 22 Shriners hospitals specialize in caring for children with a wide range of pediatric orthopedic problems.

The hospital has developed a special expertise in the following areas: spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, scoliosis (curvature of the spine), spina bifida, hand disorders, club foot, hip disorders, brittle bone disease and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

About the clinic

• Any child who has an orthopaedic problem is eligible for examination and treatment.

• To schedule an appointment, parents can call Shriners Hospital’s Admission Dept. at 1-800-281-4050, extension 4140

• Future clinic dates at Wilkes-Barre General: April 27, June 15, Aug. 17, Oct. 26 and Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Transportation provided free for patients who need treatment at Shriners hospital in Philadelphia.