Bailey was only one year old when her Mom and Dad discovered she has Scoliosis - one of the symptoms she exhibits as a result of Marfan's syndrome, a disease that affects the skeletal and cardiovascular systems. She started wearing a brace shortly thereafter and had her first surgery at age four when doctors inserted a rod in her spine to help straighten it. Bailey had two more surgeries in the next year to lengthen the rods, and wears a back brace most of the time. She will likely have several more surgeries and will wear a brace until she is about 16, when her spine has completed a majority of its growth.

Trips to Salt Lake City to see her orthopedist are a regular part of the routine for Bailey and her Mom, Brandi. But unlike most kids, Bailey doesn't complain when she has to go to the doctor. The game room with the movies and toys, and the other kids her age at her health center make the trip fun for her, says her Mom. "She didn't want to leave last time." Before surgeries Bailey participates in the center's "Panda Parties," during which the kids take a tour of the hospital, see the rooms where they will have surgery and recover, and are told exactly what is going to happen and how they will feel.

Back at school, Bailey has lots of friends among the other kindergartners, who like to try on her brace for fun. They ask Bailey lots of questions and she is happy to answer. While the long brace restricts some of her movement, Bailey plays at recess and can do just about everything the other kids do.

"She's handling it really well," says her Mom. Bailey's doctors are also very pleased with her progress and are hoping to achieve an 80 to 90 percent correction of her spinal curve by the time she is 16, giving her every chance to lead a normal, active life.

Published: April 24, 2002

Updated: February 25, 2005

As you read this please keep in mind that all treatment and outcome results are specific to the individual patient. Results may vary. Complications, such as infection, blood loss, bowel or bladder problems, are some of the potential adverse risks. Please consult your physician for a complete list of indications, warnings, precautions, adverse events, clinical results, and other important medical information.

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