CJ

CJ was born with PFFD of the right leg, severe. We did not know this until he was born. During my pregnancy I had 3 sonograms, but none of them revealed this. In fact, when he arrived, the nurses wrapped him so that we could not see. I happened to ask "Does he have all of his parts?" thinking that was a cute way of asking if he was ok, but nobody answered me. I didn't think much of it because he looked beautiful from what I could see. After 22 hours of labor, the nurses took me away to nap for an hour. When I awoke my husband broke the news to me, and it was difficult at first. Today CJ is 10 years old and has the most amazing personality. He has so many friends - everywhere he goes he makes friends. He has not had surgery for this yet, we are waiting until he can decide for himself. We go to Shriners in St. Louis a few times a year. He has a wonderful prosthetist and we are very pleased with and thankful for this hospital. CJ also has multiple osteochondromas and has had some removed from his arm and then lengthening of the bone with a fixator in place. So, he does have his share of pain and obstacles, but I have to say he is a champion. He goes through all of this and rarely complains about anything. He is a very happy boy. I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful son.