Hospitals And Our Lives Changing Attitudes, One At A Time (NAPSA)—Sean Stephenson, a former patient of the Chicago Shriners Hospital for Children, is changing attitudes, one at a time. When Sean was born, he was diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta, or brittle bone disease. His parents were told he probably would not live through the night. Today, 22 yearslater, this energetic young man from Chicago is spreading his passion to motivate others. He has spoken in five countries and in 42 of the United States. “Think you have a good excuse for not fulfilling all your dreams in life? Think again,” said Stephenson. His impressive resume includes a stint as a United States White House and a Cabinet of Affairs intern. He stands about three feet tall, weighs just 43 pounds andrelies on a wheelchair for much of his mobility. Despite his obvious physical limitations, he is noted in the Congressional Record for his dedication to fitness and a healthylifestyle. Stephenson has also been a motivational force for many, including the President of the United States and survivors of Columbine High in Littleton, Colorado. The Shriners Hospital in Portland, Ore., was honored recently to have Sean bring his motivational message to 75 patients, staff, volunteers and community members. During his presentation, Sean was asked to describe his definition of success. His reply was: “It’s when individuals apply their dreams to a Despite his physical limitations, former Chicago Shriners Hospital patient Sean Stephenson, who has osteogenesis imperfecta, is a man on a mission. a plan and then take action. Most people have dreams, but only a few are committed to schedule them into reality.” For more information on Shriners’ network of 22 hospitals that provide medical care and services totally free of charge to children with orthopaedic problems, burns and spinal cord injuries, write to: Shriners International Headquarters, Public Relations Dept., 2900 Rocky Point Dr., Tampa FL 33607, or visit the Website at www.shrinershq.org. Treatment is provided to children under age 18 without regard to race, religion or relationship to a Shriner. If you know a child Shriners can help, call 1-800-237-5055 in the United States or 1-800-3617256 in Canada.
