In March, Garrett
went to St. Louis for an 18 month, post-surgery follow-up appointment.
Instead of seeing Dr. Mackinnon, who had done his previous surgery, he saw Dr Tung, one of her associates. Dr. Tung, who specializes in brachial plexus
surgery, gave Garrett some ‘bad’ and some good news. Apparently, the nerve
graft that was done 18 months ago was not successful. In other words, the nerve
didn’t grow down his arm. While discouraging, Dr. Tung encouraged Garrett that
the nerve graft could still be used for another surgery.
Garrett, after his nerve graft surgery, 2 years ago.
This time, Garrett
will have a free muscle transfer (NOTE: this is not a free procedure! It actually costs a lot... they are just using a muscle that is "free" because it is from his own body and transferable. Please see bottom of blog for financial needs :)) done on his arm. Dr. Tung will take a portion
of muscle out of Garrett’s thigh and lay it the full length of Garrett’s arm.
The previous nerve graft will be ‘plugged’ into this strip of muscle, which
contains working nerves, and the brain will relearn how to use these nerves for
his arm.
Dr. Tung believes that if all goes well Garrett could regain the use
of his elbow and wrist.
In September, we will be going to St. Louis for the
surgery. The surgery will be 8-10 hours and Garrett will be in the hospital for
a week of recovery. Please keep us in your prayers as we prepare for this trip
and as Garrett is in surgery and recovery.
Financial Needs:
Many people have been asking us what our needs
will be for the surgery. Thankfully, the surgery and hospital stay will be
covered by our insurance. However, all other expenses will be out-of-pocket
(i.e. travel, food and hotel). If you would like to give toward our expenses or
if you have frequent flyer miles that you would like to donate, please contact
us! Thank you so much for all
your support and prayers!
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