To Mickel, Scottish Rite for Children represents hope for a better tomorrow. After noticing that the curve in his lower back had grown, Mickel and his family were referred to Scottish Rite for Children. Chief of Staff Daniel J. Sucato, M.D., M.S., discovered that he had adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) at age 17. AIS is the most common type of scoliosis in children and teenagers, and the cause is unknown.
Due to the severity of Mickel’s curve, Dr. Sucato decided that a spinal fusion would be the best treatment option for him. While this may be the most common type of surgery to treat scoliosis, surgery is still a daunting experience. Mickel shares that, during his moments of uncertainty before surgery, Dr. Sucato’s care was instrumental in his overall experience.
“He listened to all of my concerns,” Mickel says. “No matter how silly my questions felt to me, Dr. Sucato reassured me that I would be able to navigate life confidently after the spinal fusion.”
After undergoing treatment, Mickel remembers that his perspective on life began to change. “It took some time, but I eventually regained my confidence, sense of self and even a desire to become more active,” Mickel says. “I don’t think this would have been possible before my spinal fusion.”
Today, 24-year-old Mickel shows no signs of slowing down! When he is not hanging out with his friends, Mickel can be found hiking, swimming, running or lifting. Now, Mickel is looking forward to serving in the U.S. Army as a geospatial engineer this year!
“I would tell anyone with AIS that it does get better,” Mickel says. “Scottish Rite gives people like me the potential to have a brighter future and be able to live a normal life after treatment. For that, I am grateful.”
Do you have a story? We want to hear it! Share your story with us.
