Emerson's Scoliosis Journey

Emerson loves her Royals!  Yesterday we used our Blue Crew tickets and enjoyed a family day at the ballpark.  Emerson was so brave and asked Slugger to sign her brace.  For part of the day she left her jersey open, mainly so it wouldn't rub the signature off.  She spent much of that time mad, because "those people are staring at me."  Some people look, sure, it's not something you see on such a young person very often, but no one has ever been mean.  Emerson just doesn't want the attention.  Good news is, that will be over soon.  We are a month away and I am starting to freak out.  It's not something I want to do, but we have no other choice and truly believe it is what is best for her.  So we have started role-playing, letting her be the doctor and work on mom and dad's backs.  Craig has watched a video of the actual surgery and has his questions ready to ask.  I am making every list possible and driving myself a little crazy.  One thing that we

Today we traveled to St. Louis to meet with Dr. Luhmann. Emerson's x-ray is measuring over 90 degrees and he doesn't feel casting or bracing are the best treatment at this time.  This means it is time for her first surgery.  We knew this was coming but now that it is here it kinda hits you hard.   The good news is he doesn't want to fuse anything yet. Instead he wants to give her magec (magnetic) rods. He is concerned about her lungs and ribs at this time.  These rods will allow her to keep growing,  relieve some of the pressure on her lungs and ribs and be less invasive than typical rods.  He is a leading doctor in this procedure and has treated over 50 kids with these rods.  My understanding is they were only approved for use in the US in 2014.  Here is a link to his blog that explains more.  Spinal Growth Blog Her surgery will be October 16. She will stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 nights,  be at home for 2 weeks,  and can gradually start back at daycare