sarahanne
01-22-2008, 04:12 PM
Jennifer - sorry i don't have any pics. When Ethan is layed out on his bed, he is starting to look like a "C". How can i describe it? Starting at his throat until mid chest he is straight, then the spine takes a turn to the right, down to under his stomache where it straightens out again. I believe that because the c is so dramatic, that that is why Dr Snyder has to remove 3 vertebrae in the first surgery, before they go ahead and put the rods in. Yes, he has worrn a "Boston soft brace" for about 5 years now. He was in a different longer brace at night as well. I can say that i will be glad to get rid of those. They are hot, uncomfortable.... make it difficult for toileting and for getting clothes for him. I don't know how much they helped. The brace at a minimum helps him sit up. The decision to go ahead with the surgery wasn't that difficult as his breathing and eating and heart are starting to be compromised. So there really wasn't a choice ! Hip surgery.... he has had 4. Unless he is in pain, i won't concede to any more (i say that now... who really knows !) Ethan is a funny kid. He functions at about a 7/8 year old level. He can not read... struggles with simple math and time, but boy does he love his money !!! Emotionally he fluctuates between a 7 year old and a 14 year old ! Loves looking at pretty girls, but loves sponge bob just as much !!!