The Wheaton-Pavlik Harness

When Isabella was born, the Doctors told us she might have to wear a brace because her hips may not have fully developed. Well after 3 trips to Primary Childrens Hospital Bella now has to wear a brace. The brace is called The Wheaton-Pavlik Harness and the aim of treatment ( hip dysplasia) is to hold the hip in the reduced position to allow the head fo the femur (the ball) to mold the acetabulum (the cup). This is usually the postion of flexion and abduction. As the ball molds the cup, it deepends the cup, resulting in a stable hip.

The doctors told us that if she did not wear this she would have a limp when she learned to walk. She may only have to wear it for 3 or 4 months, I am hoping it is less. Here is what the harness looks like (however Bella is not smiling when we put it on her, she does not like it and fights it until she gets use to it).

(picture on the internet)

Bella Grace

My sister Jill has been taking photography classes and getting really good. She took some pictures of Bella for us while we were n St George this weekend. She did a great job!!

We love our Bella!

Bella with her cousin Abby

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVE!

Steve was born April 1, 1963 at 8 lbs 4 oz, 20 1/2 inches.

Steve turned 46 (and Bella turned 2 weeks), we had a family party for him, just us and the kids.