Morgan Zaffino of Russell is a patient ambassador at Shriners Children’s Erie. She had the opportunity to throw several first pitches at the Shriners Children’s Clearwater Softball Invitational this past weekend. Morgan is a multi-sport athlete at Eisenhower High School and is a part of the Lady Knights basketball and softball teams. Outside of her school’s softball season, Morgan also competes with a travel softball team and in the winter, she enjoys skiing and staying active in any way she can. She plans to continue her athletic journey by playing softball at the collegiate level.

Morgan was chosen to represent the pediatric care network at the invitational, where she and four other patient ambassadors had the opportunity to throw first pitches and meet athletes from 16 NCAA Division I college softball teams. For Morgan, the experience was unforgettable.

“The experience meant everything to me,” Morgan said. “I have dreamed of watching girls play at this level and not only did I get to watch them, but I got to meet them. All of the girls were so kind and welcoming to us.”

Morgan became a patient at Shriners Children’s Erie at just 2 years old, after an accident resulted in the loss of her right arm and leg. Since then, Shriners Children’s Erie has played a role in her journey, helping her learn to walk and supporting her through multiple surgeries to ensure she could continue growing and thriving. She has received custom prostheses throughout her life and she fondly remembers choosing her own designs, making each one uniquely hers.

Morgan Zaffino, an Eisenhower High School student, is pictured with softball players from the University of Nebraska during the Shriners Children’s Clearwater Softball Invitational.

Meeting the athletes further fueled her motivation both on and off the field.

“My biggest takeaway from this experience would be continuing to push myself to not only be the best player I can be, but the best person I can be,” Morgan said. “A lot of teams shared their team mottos with me and I will carry those with me daily.”

For Morgan’s family, the weekend brought several meaningful moments beyond the field. Her mother, Melody, said seeing Morgan recognized as an athlete stood out most.

“Our biggest proud moments were when fans of all ages came up to Morgan and asked for her autograph,” Melody said. “It felt good to have her be respected as a player.”

The family connected with another patient ambassador family whose daughter also has an amputation.

Morgan Zaffino

“The two girls bonded right away and it was really nice to share stories and experiences with them,” Melody said.

The event also held special meaning for Morgan’s father, Mark, a Shriner. Melody shared that he was honored to represent Shriners Children’s Erie and the Zem Zem Shriners Temple at the invitational, where he connected with fellow Shriners and event organizers from Shriners International.

Allie and Morgan