Detether....Again

Our precious Maylee will be headed into the operating room once again in the morning.

As most of you know, Maylee has spina bifida.

To be exact, Maylee's form of spina bifida is

Lipomyelomeningocele.

Explanation below:

Lipomyelomeningocele is an abnormal fat accumulation that extends from
the spinal cord into the tissue of the back. The spinal cord may or may
not extend out through the spine. The lesion is covered by skin and
usually found in the lower spine area. It is not painful. These lesions
typically need to be repaired, however surgery can usually be delayed
until the infant is several months of age. Most infants born with
lipomyelomeningocele will not have hydrocephalus and will not need a
shunt. Most patients will have near normal leg function but may have
bladder and bowel difficulties. Some children will need additional
surgery as they grow due to tethered spinal cord.          - courtesy Dept. of Neurosurgery Univ. of Fl.

And a little visual:

  

As indicated in the explanation above, a tethered cord can be an issue, in particular with this form of spina bifida.

Maylee had her 1st detether surgery about 3 years ago.

It was hoped that she would never need one again or at least that it would be another few years away.

Well, those of you who know Maylee, know that she continues to grow like a weed.

This continued growth coupled with the amount of scar tissue that she has, has led to the need of another detether surgery.

Leaving a cord tethered can lead to a host of problems; such as the worsening of bladder and bowel function and weakened mobility.

Therefore, after much prayer and doctor's advice - 

Here we are, once again.

Maylee's neurosurgeon still says that Maylee's 1st detether surgery was the most difficult case she has ever treated.

What was supposed to be a 2-3 hour surgery, ended up being over 6 hours.

So, we are a little better prepared emotionally to not expect any certain time frame.

Prayers are very appreciated for a successful surgery, no infections and a speedy recovery.

Thank you and we will keep everyone posted!

Here is our sweet girl enjoying some hot cocoa before bedtime at the FedEx Family House.





We are so blessed to call Maylee our daughter.

She has brought so much joy into our lives and taught each of us so much about patience, endurance and strength!

We are praying for you, baby girl!