Our daughter, Isabella, is a spunky, loving, creative little being. The youngest of four children, she is, ironically, one of our family’s greatest teachers. She teaches us about patience, perseverance, strength, flexibility, staying positive.. and love.
Isabella was born with Talipes
Equinovarus. Immediately upon her birth, it was clear that she would need extensive orthopedic care. Her feet were curled and twisted up towards her shins. Only two hospitals in the country provide access to the Dimeglio Method; a non-surgical treatment for Talipes Equinovarus. One is in Texas and one is The Shriner’s Hospital for Children, in Erie, PA. We live in Central Connecticut, and Erie- a 20 hour round trip drive- is as close as we can get.
Isabella has been receiving treatment at the Erie Shriners since she was 6 weeks old. Isabella has received exceptional care in Erie, while offering her the unique treatment that is only available at a distance from our home and the rest of our family.
The history that Isabella has with the Erie hospital and the Shriner’s care providers is invaluable in contributing to her continued progress. Even with surgery now inevitable, the Erie Shriner’s has a commitment to and understanding of her condition and it’s evolution in her little body.
In Isabella’s first few years, she had to travel back and forth to Erie from our home as often as every other week. Isabella’s Case Manager told us about Miracle Flights. Miracle Flights has supported us in so many times of need. Miracle Flights has enabled us to access the medical care that Isabella has needed, while keeping us away from the rest of our family for shorter periods of time.
Two of our children have medical needs. The cost of caring for children with needs, including the need for a parent to be home and available to provide care- can add a good deal of financial burden to a family. Travel expenses are certainly not covered by insurance.
Isabella is a bright and shiny light. We are so grateful to have her in our lives. We are grateful for being able to access the medical care that she needs to help her reach towards the goal of pain free, healthy functional feet.
Thank you Miracle Flights. Truly.
The Trowbridge-Wheeler Family
