AN UPDATE FROM GRANDMA PHYLLIS (Chrissie has gone to bed)

Liddie has progressed this week just as the doctor thought she would; she left the hospital on Saturday afternoon. We came directly to Quantum House (it's just like a Ronald McDonald House) on the same campus as St. Mary's Childrens Hospital here in West Palm Beach. You can see on the photos the bandaged leg and the brace she has to wear when she's in the wheelchair. The sponge between her legs has to be kept in place when she's in bed. She is such a trooper, and a brave little girl.

She's had an ongoing fever off and on since Sat. evening. It's better today, and was only mild this afternoon. We were able to give her a sponge bath and wash her hair tonight - she had her favorite strawberry ice cream and went to sleep feeling the best she has.

We'll be going over to the hospital Monday morning early to remove the bandages, and then they will put a cast from just below the knee and around the foot. She wants a "red' cast since that is her favorite color - if they have it! Of course, everyone loves her at the hospital and I'm sure they'll try to give it to her!

I'm so glad I was able to be here, and help out. It's taken both of us to lift her sometimes, and she has kept us hopping!

All my love to everyone; thanks for all the cards, best wishes, and love you've given Liddie. Good Night, Eliza -Liddie misses you!

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Hip Surgery Next Week!

Lydia has a mild case of congenital hip dysplasia, a condition related to her Fibula Hemimelia. We knew from early on that at some point she would need a pelvic osteotomy (hip surgery) to correct it. In a way this is a preventative measure; it will prevent a possible hip dislocation later on in life. This is critical to maintaining mobility, since people who have hip dislocations often suffer permanent disability of some level as a result. This is especially important for a child undergoing leg lengthening, since it adds pressure to the hip. The research I have done and testimonials from other parents indicate these procedures are *very* successful and rarely are there complications.  So the time has come, she and her Mom are off to Florida tomorrow, for surgery on June 22nd. I will stay at home with Eliza this time.

The surgeon, Dr. Paley (truly the best of the best!), plans the following procedures:
- Dega Pelvic Osteotomy
- Reduction of hip subluxation
- Ligamentum Teres reconstruction

Stay tuned for more news!

- Tim