Stay Strong Sister

Today my sister is having surgery on her hip for the second time this year. And this one is a big one. She has still been having pain since her first one earlier in the spring so something else needed to be done. The procedure is called derotational osteotomy, and here is my attempt to briefly describe it: they will be re-angling her joint by cutting her femur and creating a wedge using plates, screws, etc. This will hopefully dissolve the pain (eventually) since the ball-and-socket joint will not be rubbing (ouch!) and wearing away the cartilage like it is now. As for the recovery... it will be a long one. She'll be non-weight bearing for 3 months and on crutches for another 3-6 months after that.

On a good note, she is about 1.5 hours away from the Hughston clinic, which is a great place to have this procedure done with very knowledgeable and highly recommended surgeons. She has a proactive physical therapist that is already researching away while awaiting her return. And most of all, my mom is able to live down there with her until she can be more independent, and we are all thankful for that. Her boyfriend, Mark, and other friends are more than eager to help in any way they can, whether that be bringing casseroles or giving car rides to/from work and therapy. As for me, I am grateful to have the opportunity to come down there in about 2.5 weeks to help out! And I'm bringing the Wii!! Sonic the Hedgehog here we come... just like the old days! I'm excited to spend some good ole quality time with my sister! And I can't wait to catch up on all the movies I've been wanting to watch-- slumber party central!

Props to my sis - It was just last month that Gwen found out this second procedure is necessary, and she has been so optimistic. I can't imagine how hard it would be anticipating such a long recovery, but my sister is so strong. She has chosen to focus on the good things. She told me that she feels much more prepared for this one and has been doing pre-surgery exercises so that she can go in as strong as possible. She has also been getting the house ready, accumulating practical clothing and knows what she needs. She even moved apartments 2 weekends ago so she can be on the first floor and have more accessibility. I'm so proud of her and know that she'll be so strong through all of this. My mom even told me this morning when they were ready to take her back that she wasn't nervous at all. I guess the hard part is yet to come.

PLEASE PRAY that she will have a successful surgery and a speedy recovery. It's going to be a tough road, but we are all here to support her.

Count your blessings!