Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus
Can you describe what your condition meant for you early in life?
I was born with a disability called spina bifida and hydrocephalus.
When she was born her spine was open and protruding out, and she underwent a 10-hour surgery. The doctors always told us that at some point in her life she would have to have that fixed, and that day came, and it was probably the scariest day of our life.
What was going through your mind when you first learned you would need another major surgery?
It kind of slowed me down from living a normal life, and it was scary whenever everything first happened. We didn't know what to expect. We didn't know if I was going to survive. We've always been told that it was a very risky surgery.
How did the medical team prepare you and your family for what was ahead?
The neurosurgeon said, “Just let me get the team together.” He told us that he had the perfect spine surgeon. And he was right—Dr. Geck is perfect for us. He made us feel comfortable; he eased our minds for the surgery.
What do you remember most about the conversations leading up to the procedure?
He went through it step by step with us the entire way.
What was the recovery process like for you?
It was a long recovery, but I kept a positive attitude, because I felt that was the only way to get through it. I wanted to make things easier on my family and my friends and the staff.
Looking back, what advice would you give to someone facing a similar surgery?
If there's ever anyone that's in the situation I was in—if anyone ends up in that situation now—I highly recommend them to go to him.
What stands out to you the most about Dr. Geck and his team?
I remember the calming, because to us everything was so scary. He never made us feel like there was a worry. He's just amazing, and I would not be here if it wasn't for him.
