I hope to hear some news about Mother and infant after post-op recovery takes place.
This article was a great story! I love the fact that the operating room was hot. It made me feel bad about all of the surgeons who were in there for a couple hours. Also, I can't believe that Mrs. Royer's son wasn't even born yet and they were operating on me. That's so cool! Anyways, I have three questions:
-Why did Lexi Royer want country music during an operation?
-What's a spina bifida surgery?
-What were some of the effects that had for Mrs. Royer's unborn son in the long run?
This was an inspiring read. Yes,there are people who are selfless, who work in the most difficult conditions, who have spent years studying and perfecting their art- just so they can alleviate the suffering of other people. So opposite from every creature who works in the White House.
8
Stop it, Susan! You had a touching, empathetic comment going, that was so appropriate, then you just couldn't resist the tasteless cheap shot. And, Yes, I have similar feelings about the state of leadership in America, but I know how to separate my heart from the back of my hand.
6
As a teenager I had the opportunity to observe an eight hour surgery performed by my father. It remains one of the most riveting and extraordinary things I have ever seen. As you say, at no point did I feel squeamish. The physical endurance of surgeons is little known outside hospitals: thank you for this insight, and congratulations to all of the medical staff involved. I wish the Royers all the best.
11
I worked in an operating room for a number of years. This is a perfect description of what happens there and the incredible emotions that arise. It is an entirely different world. I have a degree in theatre, I've done hundreds of plays, and all of that has nothing on an OR.
5
The brilliance,
dedication
and abilities
of these human beings
is incredibly moving.
The marvels of science,
the skill of the surgeon....
Please let us
know what happens.
We hope for the best.
5
Wonderful story, but "200 percent risk of mortality" makes no sense.
8
If it were just one person being operated on, the worst case scenario would be 100 percent mortality. Since the mother and fetus are being operated on, then there are 2 people who can potentially die, which is where the 200 percent figure comes from.
1
2 lives at risk
I believe they are referring to the risk of death to the fetus and also the mother.
I too hope to hear how the family is doing after he is born. I can only imagine the fear and anticipation the family had waiting for the surgeon to come out. Sending the Royer's all the love and positive thoughts they deserve.
12
Simply beautiful. Thank you Ms. Grady for such wonderful reporting of the miracle of science and the blessing brought upon this family. Thank you also for referring to their son and grandson as it was crystal clear there was a little person in there.
5
"TWICE BORN Stories From the Special Delivery Unit" is a 3 part series for PBS about a unit at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia where fetal surgery has been performed on over 1000 patients. A unit founded by the originators of fetal surgery for Spina Bifida, It's a deep dive into this subject and all of its tremendous emotional and scientific ramifications on both sides of the equation...doctor and patient. It's available on Amazon Video.
14