When Logan was born at just 31 weeks, his parents knew his journey would be anything but typical. After a complicated pregnancy and an early arrival, Logan faced significant medical challenges from the very start. Diagnosed with Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL) and later with Cerebral Palsy and Autism, his early years were filled with therapies, surgeries, and specialists as his family sought the best possible care.
Melissa, Logan’s mom, was determined to give her son every opportunity to thrive. From traveling to St. Louis for eye surgery and Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) to consulting with a CP specialist in Texas, their family left no stone unturned. But when Logan was 8 years old and they were faced with the decision of hip surgery, their search led them to Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware, and Dr. Wade Shrader.
The decision to pursue an osteotomy was not an easy one. “We consulted with numerous orthopedic surgeons, and opinions varied widely, leaving us confused and uncertain,” Melissa recalls. What set Nemours Children’s apart was Dr. Shrader. “We were fortunate to learn about Dr. Shrader and his unique approach to hip displacement surgery through one of our yearly appointments in Texas,” says Melissa. “Dr. Shrader’s emphasis on immediate weight-bearing and walking after surgery was a significant factor in our decision. Many other surgeons prescribed casts for up to 8 weeks, which can lead to muscle atrophy that is potentially worse than the surgery itself. Given that Logan was already actively walking with his walker and taking steps independently, losing that ability was a major concern for us.”
Melissa almost canceled their first appointment at Nemours due to the travel involved, but looking back, she knows it was the best decision they could have made. “During our visit in June 2022, we met with Dr. Shrader, Dr. McManus, and the Gait Lab,” says Melissa. “Dr. Shrader was the first to clearly explain the reasons for the differing opinions about Logan’s hips, using actual data that he had collected from the Gait Lab. He clarified the importance of the osteotomy and associated surgeries, and the overall process. His expertise and personal experience as a parent of children with CP who had undergone similar procedures were invaluable. Knowing we weren’t alone and that our doctor truly understood our situation made us feel comfortable moving forward with the surgery and in-patient rehab.”
In May 2023, Logan underwent an osteotomy and multiple associated procedures to improve his mobility. He then spent two months in inpatient rehab at Nemours, where he and his family were met with a level of care and support different from anything they had experienced before.
“From the moment we arrived, our experience at Nemours was unlike anything we had encountered throughout all of Logan’s previous surgeries, doctor visits, and medical experiences,” shares Melissa. “As we prepared for our two-month stay away from home, the Nemours team’s assistance with everything from surgery details to accommodation and packing was invaluable. Dr. Shrader and his team’s support leading up to and during surgery made us feel confident in our decision. The nurses and support staff after surgery were incredibly kind and made us feel at home. The daily check-ins from doctors and the Child & Family Life teams, who offered everything from coffee for us to new toys for Logan, made our hospital stay as comfortable as possible.”
One highlight of Logan’s hospital stay was the weekly music therapy sessions. “He looked forward to them so much,” Melissa says. “And Jana Teagle from Child Life? She was amazing. She visited every day, bringing thoughtful gifts and making Logan laugh with their shared appreciation for butt jokes.”
Despite the challenges of surgery and rehab, the experience was overwhelmingly positive. The most difficult part? “Leaving,” Melissa says. “The level of support we had at Nemours was incredible, the team become our friends.”
Logan’s recovery took time, but the results have been remarkable. “When he returned to school, he was still weak and relied on his wheelchair. But within a couple of months, he was back to using his walker and regaining his independence,” Melissa explains.
Nearly two years post-surgery, Logan is stronger than ever. His toe walking has been completely corrected, and Melissa still marvels at the sight of his flat feet—a small but significant victory. “I believe he was in constant pain before the surgery, but he didn’t realize it. Now, that pain is gone, and he’s able to focus on school, learning, and just being a kid. He has made remarkable strides in his academics, behavior, and every aspect of his life since the surgery. It has truly been transformative.”
Looking ahead, Logan and his family remain committed to continuing care at Nemours. The travel and overnight stays are worth it to ensure he receives the best possible treatment. “We’re optimistic about his future and will continue providing him with every opportunity to live a full life,” Melissa says. ” Our hope is that he will one day be able to live independently and have a family of his own.”
For parents facing similar decisions, Melissa has one key piece of advice: “If you have questions and the resources available to travel to Delaware, I highly recommend consulting with Dr. Shrader and his team. It’s crucial to seek a third opinion and not be apprehensive about inpatient rehab. I firmly believe we wouldn’t have progressed as far as we have without the Nemours team, and I’m incredibly grateful for our positive experience there.” She continues, “I am thankful for the Nemours team every day when I see those beautiful flat feet and my smiling child!
