We got the x-rays and went to the orthopedist's office. He began to talk with us about Moriah's x-rays. Then he told us that he had been at a conference this past week where he discussed Moriah's case with 12 other doctors. He said they had a split opinion about whether or not this is the appropriate time for her surgery. There are lots of pros and cons on both sides. If we do it now, the rate of correction will be better because her bones are softer. However, the pins have a greater risk of coming out which would require further surgery. If we wait, her spine will have more curvature to correct, but the bones will be stronger and will hold the pins better. Also, they may be able to use a stronger rod and pin because she will be bigger. We spent about an hour talking about these and lots of other issues. Finally, Andy asked the Doctor what he would do if it were his daughter. He said he would wait. Specialists had flown in from Massachusetts to help with the surgery. Special titanium rods and pins had been ordered. But we agreed together that waiting would be the best thing for Moriah. We will have x-rays every three months. If there is rapid progression, we will know it is time to do the surgery. If it continues to progress at the rate that it has been, we can wait awhile for her to grow.
It was such a strange thing to be so geared up for something so major and then to change gears so suddenly. We feel a little like "The Boy Who Cried Wolf" because so many have been praying. One of our major prayers was for wisdom for the surgeon. So we are thankful for this answer to prayer. We are also thankful that the surgeon chose to share the opinions of these other doctors with us. We feel confident that he has her best interests at heart.
We had already made plans to have dinner with some friends who live in Denver, so we gathered our wits and enjoyed a great evening with them. About 8:00 we got home, sent my parents home and resumed normal life. It feels a little strange to be home again. But we are thankful for His leading in all of these things.
4 comments:
So thankful that the Lord was clearly leading your steps. We also cancelled a surgery we were gearing up for, and although you are excited and relieved, you are also bummed because you were ready to get it over with. I totally understand.
The Lord ways are perfect, and I am thankful for all the Dr.s looking at your lil girls case that helped you come to this decision!
I don't think you are the little boy at ALL!! I thin kit is amazing that God provided that many doctors to look at Moriah's x-rays and provide CLEAR guidance about what would be BEST for Moriah!!!!! I think it is an OBVIOUS answer to prayer and had you not asked for it, Who Knows? We know who knows.. continuing to pray for God's Timing in Moriah's healing!
Just wanted to let you know that I had let a TON of people know about this to pray, and it blesses me every time someone asks how the surgery went. (I did finally send an update e-mail when the 5th or so person asked!)
I mean, I did ask them to pray, but it is so encouraging to me (and I hope to you all as well) that so many people are praying. I am continually amazed and encouraged in this. Just wanted to pass that along.
Hi Amy, I am so thankful that God answered the prayers for wisdom for your doctor. Sounds like he sought much counsel. SOunds like they are being wise and making the best decision for MOriah's long-term well being. I'm sure it was a huge anti-climactic event! But how nice to have normal life right now rather than recovery from major surgery! I know we are probably headed toward surgery in the next year, but I sometimes wish it were a bit longer to give Lilly more time to udnerstand what's happening.
Thanks for posting on my blog...now I can follow yours!
~Amy
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