Letter to the Editor: The wonder of hope
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Hope is a great thing. Having hope when the odds are against you can keep you going. I had hope in 2016 when my spine started to twist. I lost 5 inches in height in 10 months. It was a fast onset of scoliosis. I tried a prescription back brace and physical therapy which didn't slow it down. A specialist in PA told me my only option was rods in my back from top to bottom. When I refused he told me when I couldn't take it any more to come back and he would operate. Knowing I would never be able to bend over or twist around afterwards kept me saying, "Not yet." I was told of other treatments but they were far away. I was waiting for the time when I would be desperate enough to agree to the total spinal reconstruction surgery. With prayer I was given extra time for things I enjoy.
About 5 months ago I had a scare. One morning I woke to find I was twisted more and was 2 1/2 inches shorter. Only took 1 day to decide I was ready for the surgery. I made the call. Turns out my bone density is so bad I was told I could break something by just stepping hard and to be careful bending down. Another doctor said not to lift anything, not even a 10 lb. grocery bag. So you probably guessed, with my bones so weak I'm at a high risk of fracture and back surgery is out. I thought that meant; take all the vitamins and osteoporosis medicine to improve my bones then I could have the reconstructive surgery.
May 29 I went for a second opinion with another spinal specialist. He looked at all the reports and X-rays I had taken. He didn't hold anything back and told me my bones would not improve. At first surgery might have been an option but now I was in too bad of shape and too old for the surgery.
Today I have decided even with no hope for any improvement in my back I will continue to hope. Hope for time to continue to be with family and friends. Hope for time to share what I know how to do. Hope to inspire others to live with love for each day and see the beauty in things like a single flower or clouds. I hope as a country we are able to continue being able to live and worship freely. Why should I worry? Someday when my time is up, whether it is tomorrow or 20 years from now, I know there is a place prepared for me. For now I plan to live each day like it is a precious gift. I hope you do also.
Bonita (Bonnie) Eaton
Vienna