Libby’s Story

Libby was diagnosed with Scoliosis in late October of 2009 after seeing her pediatrician with right shoulder pain. Her curve at that time was 43 degrees thoracic and 26 lumbar. We had no idea what scoliosis was and were numb

with shock as we learned more.

By February 8, 2010, five days after Libby turned 13, she had surgery to correct a then 62 degree thoracic

curve and 43 degree lumbar.

Within 18-22 hrs. after surgery, it is important to get the patient up. Logically I understand this. As a parent,

I felt like a caged animal.

I didn’t know what to do with myself watching them move her, knowing she was scared out of her mind, watching her BP rise, watching her again pushing her pain button with no result and

not being able to protect her, help her, comfort her.

Libby’s Mother: Kerrie

• “I am angry about this. I am angry that she never had a chance for alternative treatment. I am angry that I did not know about Scoliosis.• How did we miss that? How did we

not know?”

-of course, now that we know about the simple Adams Forward Bend Test, it is completely apparent.”

Rib Cage Rotation

“Had we known, Libby perhaps could have experienced early diagnosis and intervention...instead she went from diagnosis to major surgery in 3 months.”

“As far as Libby's situation is concerned, her Scoliosis is the epitome of the lack and need for awareness and early detection. I will

do what I can in my area as no child should ever go straight to surgery because of ignorance.”

kNOw SCOLIosis