Alec Cabacungan has captured the hearts of many as a young man who has overcome challenges and pursued his passion for sports broadcasting despite being born with a rare genetic bone disorder called osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), also known as brittle bone disease.
Alec’s journey with Shriners Hospitals for Children, where he has received medical care and support since he was just two months old, has been remarkable. But what happened to Alec from Shriners Hospital? Let’s delve into his inspiring story and see where life has taken him.
Alec’s journey with OI has involved countless surgeries, over 60 broken bones, and intense physical therapy. However, despite these challenges, Alec’s determination and positive attitude have never wavered.
He has not only pursued his academic dreams at Northwestern University but has also become a spokesperson and advocate for Shriners Hospitals for Children, raising awareness and funds for research, treatment, and support groups. So, what has Alec been up to? Let’s find out.
Alec’s Medical Journey with Shriners Hospitals for Children
Alec was born with a severe form of OI, which required extensive medical care from Shriners Hospitals for Children. He underwent surgeries to insert intramedullary rods into his long bones, making them stronger and more stable.
He also received splinting and casting during his childhood, and his longtime physician and surgeon, Dr. Peter Smith, has been an integral part of his medical team at Shriners. Alec’s medical journey with Shriners Hospitals for Children has not only helped him physically but has also inspired him to give back to the organization that has supported him throughout his life.
Alec’s Academic Pursuits and Sports Broadcasting Career
Despite his medical challenges, Alec has pursued his academic dreams at Northwestern University, where he is majoring in sports broadcasting. He has taken a leave of absence from Northwestern in 2022 due to a recent setback with a broken shoulder, knee, and hip that required post-surgery physical therapy at Shriners Hospital’s Oak Park Avenue center. However, Alec’s passion for sports broadcasting has not dimmed, and he continues to work towards his career goals.
Alec’s Advocacy for Shriners Hospitals for Children
Alec has been an outspoken advocate for Shriners Hospitals for Children, using his platform to raise awareness and funds for the organization. He has participated in fundraising efforts, including commercials and public appearances, to support Shriners and inspire hope in other kids with disabilities.
Alec, along with his parents Alma and Gill Cabacungan, has traveled across the country on behalf of Shriners, attending NBA, NFL, and college games to spread the word about OI and Shriners’ mission. He has also hosted his own YouTube show, interviewing athletes and honing his sportscasting and color commentary skills.
Alec’s Future Aspirations
Alec’s dreams and aspirations go beyond his academic pursuits and advocacy for Shriners Hospitals for Children. He hopes to work for a major network one day, covering NBA games and the Super Bowl. One of his biggest aspirations is to cover the Paralympics, and he aims to see more people with disabilities involved in sports journalism. He has set his sights on the 2024 Paralympics in Paris and hopes to push the boundaries for people with disabilities in the sports media world.
What happened to Alec from Shriners Hospital?
Alec is alive and well—he is currently in college at Northwestern University, where he’s majoring in sports broadcasting. He now lives in a dorm and drives a specially modified van. Alec’s dream is to work for a major network, covering sports events such as the NBA and Super Bowl. He also aspires to cover the Paralympics, with a goal of pushing the boundaries for people with disabilities in the sports media world.
