Diagnosed with hemihypertrophy and leg length discrepancy at just 9 months old, Jeffrey has undergone a complex medical journey, spanning over a decade. His family chose Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware after researching top children’s hospitals near their home in Lehigh Valley, PA. His family was particularly drawn to Dr. Reid Nichols, who would become Jeffrey’s doctor for the next 11 years.
Throughout his life, Jeffrey’s treatments have been multifaceted and challenging. Jeffrey underwent several procedures, including an iliotibial fasciotomy/tenotomy, femur shaft osteotomy, and the implantation of a Precice lengthening device, as well as hemiephysiodesis of the distal femur. These interventions were crucial in addressing his leg length discrepancy and associated complications. His mother Amber shares, “We are blessed that Dr. Nichols has been his doctor for 11 years and giving us the best treatment. Her upbeat outlook and confidence in her work gave us the motivation we needed to continue with Jeffrey’s surgery.”
The recovery process was both mentally and physically demanding for Jeffrey. However, with the support of physical therapy and his personal drive to return to ice hockey, he made significant progress. Within 120 days, Jeffrey had completed 49 physical therapy appointments and 105 at-home sessions, demonstrating his dedication and the effectiveness of the rehabilitation program. Amber says, “Jeffrey was motivated to get back to hockey, and that really helped drive his recovery.” His hard work paid off, as he returned to playing ice hockey, fully healed!
The care Jeffrey received at Nemours Children’s Health extended beyond the surgical interventions. The entire team, including Dr. Nichols, Kathryn Ritacco, PA-C, and geneticist Dr. Karen Gripp, played a vital role in his treatment journey. Amber praises the care they received, “Every person we have worked with at Nemours has been wonderful.”
Jeffrey’s experience offers a powerful message of hope and resilience to other families facing similar challenges. To others navigating a similar diagnosis, Amber advises, “It’s amazing the way the body can heal, and kids are resilient. It’s more difficult to watch from the outside but it’s a short time of hard work for a lifetime of difference. His confidence has skyrocketed, and his motivation is never-ending. It’s a life changing decision, but one that will positively change your child forever.” Through his story, Jeffrey and his family inspire others with their courage and the exceptional care they received at Nemours Children’s Health. As Jeffrey continues on his path, his story serves as a reminder of the impact that dedicated healthcare professionals can have on a family’s life.
