Patient Ambassador Party Brings Portland-Area Families Together

"It was great to see everyone again, all in one place," Amelia, a Patient Ambassador, said. "I hadn't seen Charlotte since the Rose Parade, so that was really cool."

Amelia, one of two Patient Ambassadors who rode on the Shriners Children's Portland float in the Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade, has participated in many events to support the hospital.

The Patient Ambassador program is a way for current or former patients to get involved, give back and stay connected to the hospital. In many cases, a Patient Ambassador represents the "face" of the hospital at a wide variety of events.

Patients who sign up for the Patient Ambassador program are given opportunities such as riding floats, participating in film shoots and taking part in fundraising efforts. They also share their stories from the podium and on social media. Patient Ambassadors consistently say their favorite part of the program is connecting with other ambassadors and their families. That's what makes the annual Patient Ambassador party so special.

Shriners Children's Portland recently hosted a party for Patient Ambassadors and their families. Friends old and new came together to celebrate their accomplishments and contributions to the hospital in 2025.

Following a photo shoot, the Patient Ambassadors enjoyed some light refreshments and a warm welcome from the marketing and communications team. The kids bonded over a spirited game of Whoonu, while the parents got to know one another better. The Patient Ambassadors then split into pairs to practice telling their stories, which they are sometimes asked to share in front of crowds.

After dinner, the group enjoyed the yearly recap slideshow featuring Patient Ambassadors participating in events such as the Shriners Children's Northwest Golf Classic tournament, the Portland Rose Parade, the Oregon East West Shrine Game and Walk for LOVE. The slideshow also highlighted the many ways ambassadors gave back to the hospital throughout the year.

Then the time came for a special guest speaker: Annie, a former Shriners Children's patient who was born with fibular hemimelia. She shared her journey of training for and competing in the Paralympics, culminating in a gold medal in sitting volleyball at the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo, Japan. Having recently graduated from Linfield University, her message to the group was simple: never let anything hold you back. Ever.

Afterward, the Patient Ambassadors asked many questions, which she was happy to answer. She also posed for photos with the children and allowed them to hold and try on her gold medal.

Annie stayed for the grand finale - Patient Ambassadors took the stage to share their stories with the entire group.

"We loved attending the Patient Ambassador party," Stephanie, Charlotte's mother, said. "It was inspiring to hear the patient stories, especially Annie."

If you are a current or former patient of Shriners Children's Portland and are interested in joining the Patient Ambassador program, please .