Family Finds Perfect Fit for Daughter's Scoliosis Care

Logan’s story

When she was 10, Logan learned that she had scoliosis. Her parents immediately began searching online for local hospitals that could offer the specialized care their daughter needed. Upon the recommendation of Logan’s pediatrician, they looked up Shriners Hospitals for Children — Honolulu. “We realized that they had the best doctors and facilities to treat our daughter’s condition,” said Logan’s mom, Charmaine.

Logan’s first appointment at the Honolulu Shriners Hospital was in February 2017 with pediatric orthopaedic surgeon Jonathan Pellett, M.D., whose humor and compassion quickly put Logan and her ‘ohana (family) at ease. "He is full of energy!" Logan said. "When he enters the room, he always has a smile on his face. His personality always brightens up the room.”

Logan also mentioned radiology manager Jay Shaffer as always being “... so friendly and is always prepared. I see him all the time, and each time he greets me with a smile and tells me not to worry.”

Another member of the Honolulu Shriners Hospital staff with whom Logan shares a special connection is orthotics and prosthetics manager Ken Mandler, C.O. “He is the kindest person ever. Even though he makes my back brace extra tight, he always seems to still make me laugh and not be mad at him,” Logan said. “I know that he wants me to get better and out of the brace. Uncle Ken is always happy when he sees that my X-ray pictures show improvement.”

The pediatric orthotic and prosthetic services department has become one of Logan’s favorite places in the hospital, thanks to its on-site offerings of customizable devices. “I love picking out my new design for my back brace, getting new straps and, of course, seeing Uncle Ken,” Logan shared.

Over the years, Logan’s team of health care specialists not only have attended to her physical condition – they have developed a genuine investment in ensuring she continues living out her dreams, without limits. For Logan, that means participating in extracurricular activities, including hula dancing, mixed martial arts and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. “I have never stopped doing these activities even with my condition and back brace,” Logan said. “Dr. Pellett and Uncle Ken always told me to keep doing my activities and never give up. They encourage me to keep on persevering through my scoliosis journey and have never made me feel different.”

Now 13, Logan visits the Honolulu Shriners Hospital every few months for continuation in her scoliosis treatment. She is a student at Hawai‘i Technology Academy, and enjoys riding her scooter and hiking with her family.

She also looks forward to her appointments at Shriners Hospitals for Children. “When I go to Shriners [Hospitals for Children — Honolulu], I feel very special. I know that they are providing me with the best care that I deserve,” Logan said.

“Shriners Hospitals for Children — Honolulu provided the best treatment for my daughter,” added Charmaine. “They gave us hope and encouragement during our daughter’s treatment. They made us feel welcome and always put a smile on our faces when we are there. They are the best hospital to bring your child. They will provide a sense of comfort and reassurance to your family.”