Patient Testimonials

Libbey Eicher, Archbold, OH —  spinal fusion surgery
In April of 2005, I was first diagnosed with a mild form of idiopathic scoliosis. I was referred to an orthopedic surgeon in Toledo, Ohio and in five months, my scoliosis progressed rapidly to the point where spinal fusion surgery was necessary. I had the surgery in May of 2006 when I was 16 years old. After that surgery, I had three more corrective spine surgeries in two years. I was getting very discouraged because I felt like with each surgery, my spine was getting worse. I was in a back brace all the time and was embarrassed to have it off in front of my family because of how much I leaned to my right.

Nearly three years ago, I began to think that I would be in pain and crooked for the rest of my life but after a twist of events, we found Dr. Oheneba Boachie-Adjei at HSS. Not only is Dr. Boachie a world-renowned spinal surgeon, but he also devotes his time to performing spinal surgeries to the people in Ghana, where he is originally from. This is one of the reasons I felt he was the right surgeon for me - because I also have a heart for Africa and mission work.

In June of 2009, Dr. Boachie performed two spinal surgeries on me one week apart. In December 2010, I had another spine surgery to trim down my instrumentation. I would not be standing straight and free from my back brace if it wasn't for Dr. Boachie and all the caring personnel I came in contact with at the Hospital for Special Surgery. Because of all the surgeries, I have been dealing with chronic lower back pain. I first saw Dr. Daniel Richman, who has been fantastic as well, who has tried, with injections, to get to the bottom of my back pain. I have also recently published a book called "Standing Up To Scoliosis" which tells of my many experiences. Hospital for Special Surgery has given me hope to live my life again, and I am so grateful for all those who were and continue to be involved in my care!