Airport Arrival
By Michael A. Parkes
Editor, Papyrus Magazine
Director Rameses Press Corp.

I first met Katie Walker upon her arrival at Toronto Airport and I have to admit my first impression of her was… WOW! I found it hard to believe that she was a Shriner patient. I’m sure that most, if not all of you who met her during her stay with us at some point felt that WOW factor. She is one remarkable human being and a wonderful ambassador for Shriners Hospitals.
Katie came to Shriners Hospital, Los Angeles as an infant as she was born with a heart murmur, 1 kidney and a missing tibia. She underwent her first surgeries when she was only a few weeks old and by year one had received the first of many prostheses which the physical therapists at Shriners taught her to walk with.
Arriving in Toronto on Sunday June 3rd Katie was met by Illustrious Sir Robert Whitmarsh and members of the NewBeaver Shrine Club who, as a treat, brought along their train as the pictures show. Katie was born May 29th 1989 which means she had just celebrated her 18th birthday. Accompaning Katie was her mom Nancy, her dad Marlan and her brother.
It seems that nothing can hold this young lady back, as apart from taking all AP and Honours classes, being editor of her school’s yearbook, she is also a member of the Varsity Girls Golf team and recently added to her list of accomplishments her first hole-in-one on an 84 yard par three. She has also received a scholarship to play division one golf for California State University of Bakersfield and made second team all area for her 2006 season.
Katie has now set her sights on becoming an entertainer as she had a real passion for music and has a fine singing voice. Her further talents include playing the piano and more recently the guitar which she now uses in her act.
I’m sure I echo the sentiments of our entire membership when I wish Katie all the success in the world. By the way, when you do make it to the top do you think you could introduce me to Bo Derek or maybe Julia Roberts?