At the age of 13, Zoe received a diagnosis of scoliosis during a routine check-up at her primary care physician’s office. A noticeable hump in her shoulder raised concerns, prompting a referral to Nemours Children’s Health at Lakeland Regional Health.
There, X-rays revealed severe scoliosis. The results were sent to Dr. Joseph Khoury‘s office, and an appointment with him was quickly scheduled.
Before receiving treatment at Nemours, Zoe’s scoliosis had a great impact on her life. It affected her self-esteem, as the curve in her back and waist made her feel uncomfortable in her own skin. She expressed that her clothes didn’t fit right, and she often experienced discomfort while sleeping.
The path to Nemours for Zoe and her family was driven by both trust and research. Zoe’s primary care physician recommended Dr. Khoury, who was known for his successful treatments of scoliosis. Furthermore, a family friend who worked at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Florida had heard numerous positive stories about Dr. Khoury and the surgical staff, adding to the confidence in their decision to seek treatment at Nemours.
“From the day of surgery to recent check-ups, Dr. Khoury and his staff prioritized patient and guardian comfort and understanding,” says Zoe. They were treated as if they were family. Additionally, the post-op team’s support was exceptional, leaving Zoe and her family grateful for the Nemours staff.
As of October 26, 2023, Zoe is back to her normal activities, just four months post operation. Any restrictions she had have been lifted, and she can resume her life as it was before surgery. Thanks to the instructions provided by her care team, Zoe’s healing has been a resounding success.
Zoe’s future is bright, with newfound self-confidence and a healthier outlook on life. She’s enjoying her improved self-esteem and better sleep. The care she’s received from the Nemours orthopedics team has given her the confidence and ability to be a typical teenager. “I plan on continuing to follow the guidance he has provided and be a normal 14-year-old girl and enjoy my youth,” says Zoe.
Zoe emphasizes that focusing on the positive outcomes, rather than the unknowns, made all the difference for her and her family. The choice of Dr. Khoury and the Nemours orthopedics team was instrumental in their journey. “We are so glad we decided on Dr. Khoury and the Nemours team of experts to help my situation,” says Zoe. “I would choose Nemours aII over again, now that I know just how much they care about their patients. We were not just a number, instead we were treated as family. You’re in good hands with the Nemours team of doctors and staff. Everyone from the surgeon to the occupational therapist to the nurses, I cannot thank them all enough. Dr. Khoury and staff put our minds at ease!”
