Leiton’s Scoliosis Surgery

Leiton’s journey with scoliosis all started this year in 2023. He was just diagnosed in February. Leiton had a school physical done with his doctor back in 2020 with x-rays taken and there was no indication of scoliosis. He is 14 years old and will be 15 this May. We were recommended to go through Shriners Hospital because they specialize in scoliosis with children. During that visit to Minneapolis, we discovered that he was at a 71-degree curve. With the previous x-ray done in 2020, they determined his curve started right after that x-ray, averaging 8 to 10 degrees a month. With the 71-degree curve, it is recommended to have spinal fusion surgery. The curve is too severe for a brace. They recommended we go through Shriners in Chicago. One month later we flew to Chicago and had more X-rays done. He rapidly increased to 85 degrees in just that one month! They instantly started running more tests to make sure something else isn’t causing it. He also has to wear a back brace just to try and slow down the curve before surgery. As of this time, we are not sure why he is increasing so quickly and there is no set surgery date pending test results. When we came back to Sioux City, Shriners requested that he have an MRI done and a Spirometry test. He goes back to Chicago on May 11 to get the brace and to also see the results of everything. We are seeking love, prayers and help defray the costs for traveling, and any medical expenses as we navigate guiding him through this stage of his health journey. Any donations are and will be greatly appreciated in this time of need!