The Scoliosis Foundation

Closer to a Cure, One Degree at a Time

Closer to a Cure, One Degree at a Time

Aiden's Story

"Becoming a parent is one of the greatest joys in the world. When we became pregnant, we were absolutely thrilled. To make it even more special, it was a boy. On October 13th, 2005 we welcomed Aiden into this world. The pregnancy and delivery went on without a hitch. It wasn't until a month after Aiden was born that we realized something wasn't quite right. We presented our concerns to our pediatrician, but it wasn't until September 2006 that our worst fears were confirmed. Something was
wrong with our baby boy.

We took Aiden to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center's Orthopedic Department to see the best of the best, Dr. Charles T. Mehlman. After x-rays of Aiden's back, it was determined that his curve
measured at 68 degrees. At that point, Aiden was diagnosed with Infantile Idiopathic Scoliosis. Not only was Aiden very young, just under a year old, but he also had the rare issues of being a male and a left curvature of the spine. Over the last 3 years, Aiden's degree curvature has fluctuated many times. With the treatment plan of 5 Riser (pronounced Riz-zer) body casts and 2 different braces (Milwaukee and
TLSO), Aiden's curve is now at 45 degrees. We visit Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center every 3 months for x-rays, degree measurement, and treatment options and pray that the curvature does not increase. Unfortunately, it has steadily begun to increase again in the recent months despite the gains made early in treatment. The prescribed treatment of casts and bracing is our only option at the moment. When this treatment plan no longer works, spinal fusion or growth rods will be his only alternatives. For us, this is not an option.

The thought of our son being put through so much pain is inconceivable. This is why a cure is needed now! Aiden continues to amaze us everyday by doing things that "normal" kids can do, and we could not
have been blessed with a better baby boy. We hope for your support in helping Aiden and the others like him who continue to fight this debilitating condition One Degree at a Time."

1. thescoliosisfoundation.org