Backgrounder

For media/press inquiries, please contact:
Neil Devroy, (214) 559-7653, neil.devroy@tsrh.org
Becky Britt, (214) 559-8476, becky.britt@tsrh.org

TEXAS SCOTTISH RITE HOSPITAL FOR CHILDREN

Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children opened its doors to the children of Texas in 1921. One of Dallas' first orthopaedic surgeons, W. B. Carrell, M.D., was approached by a group of Texas Masons who recognized a growing need to provide superior medical care to children suffering from polio regardless of a family's ability to pay. With the introduction of the Salk and Sabin vaccines in the mid-1950s, which virtually eradicated polio in the Western Hemisphere, the hospital broadened its focus to other orthopaedic conditions. Helped by supporters throughout the country, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children has emerged as one of the nation's leading medical centers for the treatment of pediatric orthopaedic conditions, certain related neurological disorders and learning disorders, such as dyslexia.

Each year, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children provides extensive treatment and therapy for thousands of children challenged by conditions including scoliosis, clubfoot, congenital dislocated hip, Legg-Perthes, limb-length differences, hand conditions and learning disorders, such as dyslexia.

The hospital's Sarah M. and Charles E. Seay Center for Musculoskeletal Research supports and encourages collaboration between researchers and physicians as they search for new ways to solve our patients' individual challenges. Medical breakthroughs and new technologies developed through TSRHC's research efforts, such as the TSRH^® SILO^™ 5.5 Spinal System, TRUE/LOK^™ External Fixation System and the discovery of the first gene associated with idiopathic scoliosis, have dramatically impacted the lives of not only children treated at the hospital but also throughout the world. To date, 22 of our researchers' discoveries have been patented.

Through the hospital's Luke Waites Center for Dyslexia and Learning Disorders, specific learning disorders, such as dyslexia, are evaluated and treated. Through the hospital's videotaped dyslexia and literacy training programs, thousands of Texas students have learned to read and write.

During the 2012 fiscal year, the hospital had 39,024 outpatient visits and performed 1,977 surgeries. Dedicated volunteers play an active role in the hospital's day-to-day activities. More than 800 individuals assisted in patient care and administrative areas, donating more than 110,000 hours last year.

Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children is governed by a board of trustees who are members of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in Texas. Scottish Rite Masons are affiliated with Freemasonry, a worldwide fraternal organization whose members share a common desire to better themselves as citizens and members of society. Financial support from the Scottish Rite or broader Masonic groups is on an individual, voluntary basis. The hospital is not affiliated with the Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Thanks to generous donors, supporters and volunteers, the hospital is carrying out its mission of making children's lives better and their futures brighter. For more information, to volunteer or to make a donation, please call (214) 559-5000 or (800) 421-1121 or visit www.tsrhc.org.

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