Chicago City Wire

Gabby, who was treated at Shriners Children’s Chicago for a port wine stain birthmark near her eye, has become an advocate for the hospital that supported her. She underwent laser surgery starting at age three and visited the facility every three months during her childhood. Through her experiences, Gabby found a sense of belonging in the Shriners community.

Her connection to the hospital led her to join the Rainbow Girls, a Masonic youth organization. “If it wasn’t for the Shriners and my medical experiences there, I never would have joined Rainbow,” Gabby said.

As she gained confidence from her treatment, Gabby rose to leadership within Illinois Rainbow Girls and chose Shriners Children’s Chicago as her charity during her term as Grand Worthy Advisor. “Being able to support the Shriners after all that they had done for me and everything I had seen them do for other kids; it was really incredible,” she said.

The Illinois Rainbow Girls organized various fundraising events such as car washes, mystery dinners, and purse auctions. Gabby noted that even small efforts can add up: “It might not seem like it would bring in a lot of funds, but when you have fun with it, and involve a lot of people in a huge community, then it does have a huge impact.”

Collectively, their initiatives raised $12,000 to benefit patient care at Shriners Children’s Chicago.

Those interested in supporting similar efforts can learn more or start their own fundraiser by visiting the fundraising website.