Lexi Surgery

Today Jon and I took Lexi to Shriner's Hospital for surgery on her feet.  Lexi was born with very loose joints.  When she would walk, the bones in her feet would collapse on each other.  Over the years this condition has continually caused Lexi a lot of pain.  After a lot of consultation with our Pediatrician we decided it was time to meet with an orthopedic specialist at Primary Children's Hospital.  The first time we meet with Dr. Peter Stevens he told us about a new surgery available to children like Lexi where he would surgically place a bolt in the arch of her foot.  The bolt would hold everything in place when she walked.  The hope was that over time those ligaments would tighten up and hold her arch without the bolt. We wanted Lexi to have this surgery however our insurance company would not cover the cost of it.  After months of frustration, Dr. Stevens came up with a solution.  He was able to enroll Lexi in a study at Shriner's Hospital.  It meant extra work on our part, because she would need to participate in several tests before and after the surgery.  We agreed it was the right thing for Lexi.  After months of testing the day finally came for Lexi to have her surgery.  We arrived at the hospital early in the morning and was completely amazed at how kind and compassionate the staff were.  Lexi was treated like a queen that day.  If Lexi asked for it, she got it.  It quickly came time to take her back into the operating room.  They placed the mask over her face to put her sleep.  Once she was asleep, they took her back to the operating room and I broke down crying.  I felt completely helpless as a mother knowing that I had to trust those Dr.'s to do what was best for my little girl.  About an hour later they brought her back to us.  It was difficult to see both of her little legs in casts and knowing that those casts would remain for the next 8 weeks.  We sat and talked to Lexi as she slowly came around and after about an hour the physical therapist was in the room helping Lexi out of bed to walk for the first time.  I couldn't believe how strong Lexi was as they walked her down the hall and back.  Later that evening they let us bring her home.  Lexi did not even skip a beat.  She was up and walking and the next day was ready to go school.  Lexi's strength and courage is such an example to me.  I love this little girl so much and I am always thankful to a loving Heavenly Father who willingly trusts me to care and raise her.