Episode 1: Curvy Legs

As most everyone knows, Trace is having his legs straightened this week. His legs are very bowed, which is caused by his achondroplasia - the fibia grows faster than the tibia, thus the legs bow. Trace's bowing has become severe, causing him pain and thrusting of the ankles when walking. The surgery is pretty much cutting sections out of the fibia and rotating to straighten. The legs will be set with pins and he will have full leg casts on for 8 weeks - with no weight bearing. Sounds like fun, huh?

Everyone has been asking what Trace knows. We have been talking with Trace about his surgery since Dr. Ain told us he had to have it done - that was in mid-November. Trace knows he will have casts and won't be able to walk. He knows that a doctor will put him to sleep then Dr. Ain will use a special knife to cut his legs. He knows that he will be staying in the hospital for a few days afterwards, and will get medicine so his legs don't hurt. He has asked questions at random times about the surgery and the casts and what he will and will not be able to do. It's amazing how much a young child understands.

We picked up his wheelchair last week, and he (and Taylor) thinks it is great fun...we'll check back on that in about a month. He's got tons of toys and stuffed animals packed to take with him (I'll weed those down tonight after he's asleep). Our wonderful church family gave us a huge tote full of wrapped presents for Trace during his hospital stay - I am still very overwhelmed by their love and generosity. We're off to Baltimore tomorrow, the surgery is on Wednesday morning. Everyone say an extra prayer for all of us. Taylor is staying home with my Dad, she needs a few extra prayers too, as she is worried about her bubby and has never been without either John or I, and definitely not without Trace for any length of time.

Enjoy Trace telling a little about his surgery - although he pretty much just turns into a goof ball!