03/30/2026
Karen Cox’s story is one of strength, survival, and the life-changing impact of Shriners Children’s.
When Karen was just 5 years old, she and her brother Brian were playing in the basement while their father was lighting the furnace. Tragically, there was a propane leak, causing a devastating house explosion. Thankfully, everyone survived the blast, though the force was so intense it blew out the windows of the home. Karen, Brian, and their father were all taken from the scene for emergency treatment.
At that time, life flights were not available. But Shriner Ray Falls heard about what had happened and immediately sprang into action, making calls to get help. Karen and Brian were first taken to St. Louis Children’s Hospital before being flown to Boston’s Shriners Burn Institute for specialized care. Their father was sent to Barnes Hospital in St. Louis, where he received treatment for his injuries.
Doctors did not expect Karen to survive the next 48 hours. But Shriners had a different vision. Karen had burns over 86% of her body, and her brother Brian suffered 57% third-degree burns. Their mother stayed faithfully by their side the entire time while the family fought through an unimaginable journey.
Karen remembers how the community came together to support her family in their time of need. She also remembers her time in Shriners care as being filled with love, hope, and compassion. She shared that the staff always kept her doing crafts to help keep her hands moving. There were playrooms, gifts from Shriners in their gold coats, fire trucks that came to visit, special field trips, and even a trip to an island with a beach.
Though Karen’s brother Brian sadly lost his battle at the age of 16 due to complications from the explosion, Karen continued her own healing journey. She returned each year until age 16 for skin grafts, and even as an adult, she went back to visit.
Today, Karen is a teacher at Castle High School, where she has taught General Education Health and Special Needs for 24 years. She is also a dedicated member of the Daughters of the Nile and the Order of the Eastern Star, where she served as Worthy Matron and Past District Deputy. She was also involved in Rainbow Girls as a Worthy Advisor. Her service and dedication have spanned more than 25 years.
Karen Cox is a true inspiration. Her story is a powerful reminder of the mission of Shriners Children’s and the hope, healing, and compassion that change lives forever.
