Where Are the Shriner Kids Now and How Old Are They Today?Many people remember the heartwarming commercials from Shriners Hospitals for Children. The smiling faces of kids like Alec and Kaleb touched millions of viewers. These children, often referred to as the ‘Shriner kids,’ became beloved symbols of courage, resilience, and hope. Over the years, many have wondered what happened to them and how old they are now.
This topic takes a look at who these children are, their estimated ages today, and how their lives have evolved since they first appeared on television.
Who Are the Shriner Kids?
Shriners Hospitals for Children have featured several young patients over the years in their promotional materials and awareness campaigns. These kids usually receive specialized medical care for conditions like osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease), scoliosis, burn injuries, or limb deficiencies.
Among the most well-known faces are Kaleb Wolf De Melo Torres and Alec Cabacungan. Their stories have been shared widely across the United States and beyond.
Alec Cabacungan From Spokeskid to Young Adult
Alec Cabacungan was born in 2002 with a rare genetic condition called osteogenesis imperfecta, which causes brittle bones. He started appearing in Shriners commercials around the age of 12. His bright smile, confidence, and sense of humor quickly made him a standout.
As of 2025, Alec is approximately 22 or 23 years old. He has continued to be an active spokesperson for Shriners Hospitals and is also pursuing a career in sports journalism. Alec has mentioned in interviews that he wants to inspire other children facing medical challenges and give back to the organization that helped him.
Kaleb Wolf De Melo Torres A Journey of Strength
Kaleb Wolf De Melo Torres is another young patient who appeared in many Shriners ads. Born with brittle bone disease as well, Kaleb underwent numerous surgeries and treatments from a very young age. His cheerful personality and inspiring attitude made him a favorite among viewers.
Kaleb was born around 2009, making him about 15 or 16 years old in 2025. His condition required regular care, but updates from the Shriners community suggest that he has continued to grow stronger and more independent. His appearances in more recent ads show a taller, more mature Kaleb who still carries the same spark.
Have Other Shriner Kids Been Featured?
Yes, Shriners Hospitals have highlighted many young patients over the years to raise awareness and support. While Alec and Kaleb became the most well-known due to the frequency of their appearances, others have also shared their personal stories on television and social media.
These children, though not all household names, represent a wide range of backgrounds and conditions. Some have gone on to pursue education, sports, advocacy, or careers in healthcare, often inspired by their own journeys as patients.
Why People Still Ask About Them
There’s something deeply touching about watching children overcome challenges with positivity and strength. Viewers feel a connection with the Shriner kids, which explains the ongoing interest in their well-being and current lives.
People often ask
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How old are the Shriner kids now?
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Are they still involved with Shriners Hospitals?
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What are they doing today?
The continued curiosity comes from a place of care and admiration. These children became part of many families’ lives through TV screens, and their progress remains meaningful to supporters of the cause.
How the Shriner Kids Inspired Millions
The message of the commercials was clear with the right support and care, children facing serious health challenges can thrive. Whether it was Alec confidently speaking about his life or Kaleb cracking jokes and smiling after a hospital visit, their strength left a lasting impression.
These kids inspired
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Donations and support for children’s hospitals
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Awareness about rare medical conditions
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Empathy for children facing physical limitations
Their stories showed that disability does not define a person’s potential.
Growing Up in the Public Eye
Being in the spotlight at a young age isn’t easy. The Shriner kids handled it with grace. Alec, in particular, has shared that while being recognized in public was at first surprising, it ultimately gave him a platform to help others.
Kaleb, though more private, has also made occasional public appearances and interviews. His progress over the years has been a source of pride for the Shriners community.
What Their Current Lives Look Like
As of 2025, both Alec and Kaleb are young men, continuing their paths with optimism.
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Alec is studying and working toward a future in media. He wants to become a sports broadcaster and advocate for people with disabilities.
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Kaleb is in high school and reportedly doing well. While not as active publicly as Alec, he remains a symbol of perseverance.
Their growth reflects not just physical healing, but emotional and social development too. The support from their families, communities, and the Shriners organization played a key role.
The Legacy of the Shriner Kids
The Shriner kids will always be remembered as more than just spokespeople. They became living proof of the power of compassion, medical care, and community support.
Their legacy includes
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Inspiring thousands of donors to support medical care for children
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Shifting perceptions of disability and chronic illness
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Encouraging kids with similar conditions to believe in themselves
As of 2025, the Shriner kids are no longer little children they are teens and young adults stepping into new chapters of life. Alec is in his early twenties, while Kaleb is in his mid-teens. Their stories continue to inspire many people who watched them grow up through Shriners’ campaigns.
They remind us that strength doesn’t always look the same. Sometimes it’s a brave word, a clean cast, or a cheerful smile after surgery. And while their ages may change, their impact continues to shine.