Daughter having spine surgery
Well, the time has rolled around. My six-year old has scoliosis that has progressed despite bracing and vertebral stapling. We're headed to Philadelphia Shriner's Hospital next weekend so that she can have "growing rods" put along her spine. The operation involves making a long incision from her neck to her tailbone and placing clips along each vertebrae, then running the rods through the clips to straighten out the curve as much as possible. She has a pretty rotated spine, too, so they will have to un-twist her at the same time. She's having surgery Monday the 20th at 8 am.
She had a previous surgery at the same hospital a year and a half ago, with three major incisions and requiring the surgeon to collapse each of her lungs in turn, which led to breathing complications afterwards. This time, she's 6, they won't have to collapse her lungs, and hopefully her little veins won't collapse with the IVs.
Naturally I'm anxious and stressed out, but I keep trying to tell myself that this surgery will improve her life, much like mine improved my life. Her curve has shrunk the capacity of one lung to virtually nil, and with her straightened up, she will breathe better. Her heart will have more room. She will be cosmetically better off.
One of the sort of bright spots is that when I packed for the last surgery, it was January and I was a size 22. This time it's June and I'm a size 10. I need less than half the suitcase space I did before!! I know I'll be able to sleep in that stupid converting chair better this time (I didn't fit all that well before), and I won't be red-faced and sweaty all the time!
Please send up your prayers, meditations, good thoughts, crossed fingers, or whatever you can offer for a safe surgery and a quick recovery. I'll post when we get back to town-we're supposed to be back late on the 28th June.
Hugs,
Susan
Hi Susan
WOW have you had a lot to deal with this past year. YOU are a rock and an inspiration. I'm sending prayers to you and your daughter for a safe trip and successful outcome of her surgery!!
Hugs and prayers to you!!
Penny 
Susan,
I just had to let you know that my prayers are with you and your baby girl. I understand quite well what you are going through. My 3 year old daughter, Sophie,was born with spina bifida, although a more mild case
(she is not paralyzed), she has already had surgery on her spine and may face several other surgeries. It is agonizing. There is no worry like the worry a parent has for her child. All I can say is that my faith brought me through it, and continues to sustain me. And to think the Lord thought enough of me to give me such a special child. I didn't see in myself what He saw in me. Please keep us updated and know that there are people praying your family through this time.
Love,
Stacey
I am sure when you read this she will be out of surgery and well on her way to healing . I too went thru this with my daughter Amy . Amy is now 23 . And I remember how hard it was on her .. not to mention the nights at the Childrens hospital where I stayed with her .. craddleing her little but cheeks to keep them from touching the bed . It was the most agonizing pain for me .. I pray for you and her .
Amy was 80 % curved and it was putting pressure on her organs . Scoliosis is a horrible disease .
Just know she will be great . Amy is now married with 2 children .. and lives a great life . She has a few back aches from time to time .. but she is doing good .
My best to you sweety .. hang in there .
Nat
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