50 Years, And Counting

"I've never seen one like that before."

It took a minute to realize what the CT technician was referring to.

"That's a Harrington rod," I replied. "Late '70s."

And just like that, I felt really old.

The exchange reminded me that this year marks the 50th anniversary of my first fusion for spondylolisthesis.

How's that for dating myself?

I was 13, and the persistent morning pain had been ongoing for more than a year as the adult members of my family debated whether it was something serious or just "growing pains." 

When the decision was made to seek medical advice, we couldn't find an orthopedic surgeon who would verbalize a diagnosis. The reason why was revealed when I was finally referred to Dr. Hugo Keim. He explained what I had and how severe it had become (grade IV). 

Due to the severity, surgery was needed, but there was only a 45% chance it would be successful. The prognosis for me without surgery ~ or if a remedy was not achieved surgically ~ was paralysis.

My parents let me decide. 

Seemed like a no-brainer, so my surgery was scheduled for September 29, 1975. 

So, happy anniversary, spondylolisthesis fusion! We've been a good team. Here's to many, many more years of mobility!!