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Get to Know Our Staff: Michelle Kimbrough, Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine

Get to Know Our Staff: Michelle Kimbrough, Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine

by | May 7, 2025 | Neurology, Spotlight

What is your job title at Scottish Rite?
I am a registered nurse for the Neurology and Rehabilitation department. I assist the providers in caring for our patients. I assess patients’ needs and coordinate with other departments within Scottish Rite, such as Orthotics and Prosthetics, Child Life, Family Services, among others. I also work with the families to explain our discharge instructions.

What is the most fulfilling part of your job?
The most fulfilling part of my job is seeing our patients be happy and live life to the fullest, regardless of if they have physical limitations. They always have such positive attitudes, and their spirts really uplift me. I’m so grateful to be part of their journey!

What makes Scottish Rite a special place to you?
I love the teamwork here, and I work with such a great group of nurses. I love how all of the departments at Scottish Rite unite to provide optimal care for our patients. Our patient population is also very unique. Despite their conditions, they still remain positive.

What made you choose a career in health care?
I have always had a heart to help others.

What is something unique you get to do in your position?
One of the unique things I do is go into surgery with Dr. Reyes twice a month. I help with the botoluinum toxin injection procedures.

What’s your favorite thing to do outside of work?
I love spending time with my family and friends.

Do you have any hidden talents?
I like to sing. I also play a little piano (emphasis on little).

Where are you from, and what brought you to DFW?
I’m originally from Palestine, Texas. When I began working in the NICU at another institution, I came to DFW in 2008.

If you could travel to anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
I would go to Paris, because it seems to be a beautiful and romantic place to visit with the different attractions and historical landmarks. I hear the food is amazing too!

If you had to pick one meal to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I love a good, juicy steak and buttery dinner rolls. I also love any type of chocolate dessert, brownies, warm chocolate chip cookies and ice cream.

What movie do you think everyone should watch at least once?
“Imitation of Life”

What was the first concert you attended?
I saw Luther Vandross and En Vogue.

Favorite DFW hidden gem?
Brunch Room Bistro in Forney, Texas. The food is great, and the atmosphere is a vibe!

If you were to have a movie based on your life, which actress/actor would you choose to play your character?
I would choose Sanaa Lathan or Taraji P. Henson.

What is some advice you would give your younger self, OR what’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
I would tell my younger self to listen to your parents because they know what they are talking about!

Healing Then, Helping Now: Melissa’s Full Circle Moment

Healing Then, Helping Now: Melissa’s Full Circle Moment

by | May 2, 2025 | Neurology

“I believe my treatment at Scottish Rite for Children helped me become the independent person I am today,” says former patient Melissa, describing what brought her back to Scottish Rite as a volunteer. When she is not volunteering, Melissa can be found making new friends or hanging out with her friends that she made at Scottish Rite in the past.  

Approximately 50 years ago, Melissa received care from Chief of Staff Emeritus J. A. “Tony” Herring, M.D., for cerebral palsy (CP). CP is one of the most common childhood disorders that affects muscles in children and can affect their movement, balance and posture. For Melissa, she underwent multiple surgeries and attended therapy sessions to learn how to navigate her condition.

“When we learned about Melissa’s diagnosis, we were stunned, angry, frightened and confused,” says Ervin, Melissa’s father. “The moments of uncertainty and fear were there. Through her treatment, Melissa was able to build a normal life.”

Despite enduring various challenges on her journey, Melissa discovered her own sense of independence through her daily activities. Since completing treatment, Melissa has accomplished many things, such as graduating with an associate’s degree and moving into her own apartment with her dog, Buddy. As a volunteer, Melissa guides patients and their families to wherever they need to go at Scottish Rite.  

Now, Melissa is using her voice in a new way by joining Scottish Rite’s CP Task Force. Led by Senior Clinical Scientist Angela Shierk, Ph.D., O.T.R., the task force brings together families, patients, clinicians and researchers to connect, share experiences and access valuable resources. Through her role, Melissa is helping shape a more inclusive and informed future for the CP community.

“My daughter’s accomplishments haven’t stopped,” Pam says. “Her dad and I are so proud of her and honored to watch her grow into adulthood. We are so thankful for the many family, friends and medical professionals at Scottish Rite who have become part of her life and helped her in her journey.”

From Patient to Advocate: “The Chosen” Actor Jordan Walker Ross Inspires All

From Patient to Advocate: “The Chosen” Actor Jordan Walker Ross Inspires All

by | Apr 22, 2025 | General News, Neurology, Scoliosis & Spine

Actor, filmmaker and screenwriter Jordan Walker Ross describes Scottish Rite for Children as a place of love and hope. Shortly after Jordan was born, his family brought him to Scottish Rite for cerebral palsy (CP), which affects his muscles and movements. Jordan also developed scoliosis due to his muscle weakness. After years of undergoing multiple hip surgeries, a spinal fusion and recovery in the Inpatient Unit, Jordan recalls only positive memories at Scottish Rite.

“I felt at home at Scottish Rite, even when I was about to undergo a major surgery,” Jordan says. “There was always something happening to help the patients experience something fun and memorable, regardless of whatever pain we were feeling.”

Since age 6, Jordan performed in local theaters and professional productions. However, his condition caused him to develop a limp, which impacted his ability to receive larger roles. This changed in 2018 when Jordan was cast in the TV series “The Chosen,” a historical drama based on the life of Jesus. He plays the role of Little James, who is one of Jesus’ disciples.

“The creator of “The Chosen” made my limp part of my role,” Jordan says. “I used to hide my disability, even feeling embarrassed to call myself disabled. Now, I own it.”

The role of Little James marks a turning point for both Jordan’s career and personal life. Since the success of “The Chosen,” Jordan has received roles in other films and TV shows, like “1883,” “Yellowstone” and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” He credits this to a pivotal scene in season three of “The Chosen” between Little James and Jesus, where Little James asks Jesus why he hasn’t healed him of his condition.

“It was cathartic to perform that scene and to express many frustrations that I’ve had in my life,” Jordan says. After the scene aired, he recalls that people — including patients from Scottish Rite — commented how it helped them feel seen. “I was like, ‘Why don’t I see that in myself?’” he says. “I realized that I had stopped loving myself the way I did back then. Now, I am proud of who I am and what I mean to my community.”

Jordan currently uses his platform to advocate for increased visibility of disabilities in all spaces. From his podcast to public appearances, Jordan promotes self-acceptance for all through his endeavors.

“I have no idea where I would be if it wasn’t for Scottish Rite,” Jordan says. “I refer someone any time I get the chance because Scottish Rite literally changed my life.

Juju Displays His Winning Spirit at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic

Juju Displays His Winning Spirit at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic

by | Jan 21, 2025 | General News, Neurology

Scottish Rite for Children patient Juju, of Mesquite, Texas, cheered on The Ohio State University Buckeyes as their honorary captain at the 89th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic.

In a 28-14 victory against The University of Texas, football fans across the country gathered to watch the matchup and also learned about Juju’s inspiring story on the jumbotron. Over the last six years, the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic has donated more than $90,000 to Scottish Rite for Children, supporting the ability to provide world-class care for children, like Juju

At age 6, Juju represents resilience. He was born with myelomeningocele, a form of spina bifida, which is a complex condition that occurs when the spine does not close properly during development. He and his family came to Scottish Rite to receive care from the Spina Bifida Program at 2 months old, beginning his care journey with a multidisciplinary team of experts.

Juju is known to light up any room he enters! One of his favorite parts about visiting Scottish Rite is spending time with his occupational therapist Grace Evasco. Better known to him as “Gracey-Grace,” Grace has introduced Juju to new activities that he loves, such as throwing the ball around with friends and family.

As Juju continues to make amazing progress through his care journey, we are here to cheer him on! Watch his exciting Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic experience here.

Lillie’s Leap of Faith: From Cerebral Palsy Patient to Future Journalist

Lillie’s Leap of Faith: From Cerebral Palsy Patient to Future Journalist

by | Nov 15, 2024 | Neurology

As soon as you step through the doors at Scottish Rite for Children, patients and their families are immediately embraced by a culture dedicated to fostering lifelong connections. When a patient completes treatment, staying connected beyond their time at Scottish Rite remains fundamental.

Former patient 20-year-old Lillie, of Arlington, describes her care journey as transformative and miraculous. “I’ve found so many friends who were also Scottish Rite patients,” Lillie says. “We’ve been able to bond as patients and as people living with different abilities.” Lillie was diagnosed with Hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP), a condition that affects the posture, movement and balance on one side. Her case of CP resulted in a limb difference in her left leg.

Lillie started coming to Scottish Rite in 2021 when she was a senior in high school. Her physician referred her for multidisciplinary care after noticing changes in her walking, a symptom of her limb difference that had started causing foot and ankle pain. Orthopedic pediatric surgeon Jaysson T. Brooks, M.D. performed a surgery called gastrocnemius recession – a procedure that lengthens the calf muscles and tendons. Then, Scottish Rite orthotists designed a custom ankle-foot orthosis to stabilize her ankle and foot. “From buying two boxes of the magical popcorn to updating Dr. Brooks on all the fun things I’m up to,” says Lillie. “Scottish Rite is a miracle to me.” 

The support she received from her Scottish Rite care team would ultimately prepare her for her next journey she would embark on – college. Her entire care team was invested in preparing Lillie’s condition for life at her college of choice, Texas Christian University (TCU). As a parting gift, Lillie received Scottish Rite’s Legacy Scholarship to pursue a degree in journalism and confidently chase her dreams. “Cerebral palsy may sound intimidating at first,” says Lillie, “But just know there’s a community of people with cerebral palsy who are scientists, comedians, journalists and more. We are here, we are brave, we are beautiful and we are limitless.”

Lillie has gone from undergoing surgery to now conquering the world of journalism. She aspires to ask questions about the world and write stories based on the answers, much like her fellow TCU alumnus and role model journalist Bob Schieffer. “To kids with CP, you are perfect,” Lillie says. “The way you walk is perfect, your wheelchair is cool, your leg braces are awesome and your surgery scars are epic! Being who you are is the ultimate superpower, and no one take that away from you.” We can’t wait to see the great things you accomplish, Lillie!