Reece Pugh’s scoliosis journey began with a normal doctor’s appointment. His pediatrician noticed a curve along the 4-year-old's spine and referred the family, from Poplar Branch, North Carolina, to the Scoliosis and Spine Program at CHKD.
After Reece’s first X-ray, his doctor discovered his spine already had a staggering 63-degree curve – a level that often requires complex surgery. Reece was diagnosed with early-onset scoliosis.
To prevent Reece from having to undergo spine surgery at such a young age, doctors decided to pursue EDF (elongation-derotation-flexion) casting for Reece to try to slow or prevent the progression of his condition as he grew. The casts are changed periodically as the child grows, allowing for continued correction and monitoring of the spine's progress.
“EDF casting has given Reece years of fewer surgeries and less time in doctors’ offices. He's gotten that time back to be a kid,” says Rebecca Pugh, Reece’s mom. “Reece never let it slow him down. He was fantastic throughout the whole process and had great results with it. I would absolutely recommend it to any parent.”
Today, Reece is 7 years old, in first grade, and wears only a brace. He loves reading, video games, and baseball.
“We have been so thankful for every single person at CHKD,” Rebecca says. “From the team members at reception, to the doctors and nurses, from the clinic to the hospital – just everyone. Everyone has always been amazing to us.”
During Reece’s EDF casting journey, CHKD also helped facilitate a connection between his family and another CHKD patient family going through the same treatment. They’ve been able to share stories and advice throughout the process.
“In our small-town community, Reece is a very rare exception with what he goes through, so meeting another kid he can bond with like that is fantastic,” Rebecca says. “It’s been great.”
Written by MaryClaire Hudson • Photograph by Ken Mountain
