About Connor- From Allison

As you know, Connor has been diagnosed with Perthes Hip Disorder. The results from last week's specialist appt is showing that in a few short weeks, since his last x-rays, his hip bone has deteriorated more. We, along with the specialist and his team, agreed that the best option for Connor is to have an aggressive surgery done called a Hip Distraction with an external Fixator. The surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 8th. This surgery entails a few procedures such as an Arthorgram (injecting dye into the hip joint) will be performed. The dye coats the cartilage and allows the true shape of the cartilaginous part of the femoral head to be seen and examined under x-rays. Secondly, they will perform a Core Decompression and Injection. The Dr. gets a sample of Connor's own bone stem cells and injects them into his femoral head (hip bone) to stimulate the blood flow to the bone and allow the hip bone to regenerate itself. He will also have pins fused into his leg supported by a metal brace called an External Fixator that must be worn for 4 months. This brace will enable the hip joint to open up and allow the healing process to happen quicker. He is required to stay in Baltimore for 3 weeks, post surgery, for intensive PT. He will be out of school for 3-4 months. He will begin some school instructions at the Ronald McDonald House that he will be staying at. Once we return home, WSSD will set up Home Bound Instruction til he is able to return to school.

Connor's attitude is very postitive at this point. We are so proud of him and how he is handling it all.  In fact, he said to me last night, "Mom, let's just do this and get it over with."  (My thoughts exactly!) Our hopes, according to the research, is that Connor will be fully recovered in 12-16 months. Although, he has a tough road of recovery ahead of him, we are hopeful that in the end, he will be a healthy little guy again. We will keep you informed throughout Connor's journey. Scott and I cannot thank you enough for all the support, prayers and well wishes from friends, family and the community. Everyone has a special place in our hearts.  


Here is a link to learn more about Perthes' Disease: 
http://kidshealth.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/fact-sheets/perthes-disease