Lucky seven.

Lately, we have been trying to write a bit less about the strictly medical side of our daughter’s life. We hope that rehabilitation, doctor visits, and all medical procedures will not define Antosia’s personality, nor how she is perceived through the prism of her disability. We try to show her will to fight and her strength to overcome all obstacles here. We hope that her childhood curiosity about the world and her unwavering perseverance… will bear fruit in the future.

In the meantime, here is a brief summary today. We will try to write the next one after this stage of treatment is completed.

– So far, our seven-year-old has undergone 7 surgeries and over 700 hours of rehabilitation. We have over 200 X-rays of her legs and arm. 16 surgeons/orthopedists have seen her and weighed in on her treatment.

Why treatment in the USA?

Antosia was born with a very severe form of a condition called bilateral fibular hemimelia (types 3c and 3a). In addition to the bilateral absence of fibulae, rudimentary feet, and tibias bent at practically 90 degrees, she also has an arm deficiency (ulnar club hand). Her left arm is shorter and thinner, and her hand is incomplete, with limited gripping ability achieved after 2 surgeries and extensive rehabilitation.

During the first year of Antosia’s life, we visited the main pediatric orthopedic centers in Poland. Practically everywhere, we were turned away with a recommendation for bilateral amputation. An attempt at treatment was made in Otwock. After the first procedure and a lack of clinical improvement, amputation was recommended there as well.

Currently, the seventh month of the next stage of treatment in the USA has passed. Thanks to the help of many people, we are at the Paley Institute. A place thanks to which our daughter walks, grasps, and despite immense suffering and many moments of doubt, loves.

And we are grateful to everyone who supports us, cheers us on, and is waiting for our return. <3

Fundacja Dar Serca, thank you for being with us, celebrating our successes, and going through the tougher moments with us as well.