United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Hi Munam,

I am the mom of a 6 1/2 year old son, Mitchell, who has a right OBPI. When he was 4 1/2, he had his surgery at Shriner's Children's Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I don't know if you are familiar with the Shriner's, but they offer expert medical care to children from all over the world for no cost. They bring in physicians from all country to work in these hospitals, they are generally "the best of the best" in their particular field, and they donate their time and services for children who could benefit from it.

My husband and I could have afforded to go to a different hospital for our son's care, but we chose to go to Shriner's because of the wonderful BPI specialist there and because of their BPI program. If you are interested in going to a Shriners hospital, make sure they have a BPI program (I know some don't). Also, go to http://www.shriners.com for more information about hospital locations and the services offered.

If you want more detailed information about the process, PLEASE email me and I'd be more than happy to help your family.

We have been so happy with Mitchell's outcome of his surgery. Aside from some complications due to his injury, not his surgery, he's done very well. It's also been a privelidge to be a part of the Shriner's extended family.

Good luck to you. I hope you find what you need for your child.

Missy
mkosel@i29.net

Hi Missy,

Thank you very much . You know there are some very dedicated and knowldgeable people in this community . Each reply helps me . I have learned about Shriner's. Why did you wait till Mitchell was four and half years old to get the surgery? Who was the surgeon for Mitchell? How long was the surgery and how many days did Mitchell stay in Hospital? Did he required any secondary surgery ?Best wishes for your family.

Munam

I'm glad to hear that you know about Shriners...they have been so wonderful to us.

Why did we wait??? Well, that's a painful topic. We were told by our doctors here (whom we blindly trusted, and I kick myself daily for trusting) to wait until Mitchell was 4 years old to surgically intervene. So we did. We then went to Shriners and the doctor there said..."oh, you should have come years ago". It was like a kick to the stomach to hear those words. But our son's surgeon helped so much...it almost makes up fo the time lost. The only thing now is that Mitchell has developed mild scoliosis and may also need another surgery in a year or two. (He's only had one surgery.)

Our doctors name is Dr. Douglas Drake. The other surgeon that was involved in Mitchell's case is Dr. Louder (cheif of surgery). His surgery lasted about 3 1/2 hours and he stayed in the hospital for 2 nights after surgery.

Take care. Hope this helps you in some way!
Missy