Tadmor Shrine         Akron, Ohio

Every year, Shriners Children's selects two International Patient Ambassadors to represent the healthcare system's patients. We are proud to introduce our 2025-2026 International Patient Ambassadors Carlota and Brandon, and share their incredible stories.

Born three and a half months prematurely, Carlota’s early life was marked by significant obstacles. After being diagnosed with cerebral palsy with spastic hemiparesis affecting one side of her body, doctors painted a bleak future. A chance encounter led them to Shriners Children’s Mexico, marking the beginning of transformative care.

Brandon was diagnosed with acute flaccid myelitis, a rare, polio-like illness that affects the gray matter of the spinal cord, leading to sudden muscle weakness and paralysis. His journey from that frightening morning in 2016 to becoming an International Patient Ambassador exemplifies the power of resilience.