171 Ashley Ave.
Charleston, SC 29425
843-792-1414
800-424-MUSC
|
 |
Patient Stories
Elizabeth Anderson
Letter from Elizabeth's Mother, Ann Anderson
Dear Friends,
When Elizabeth was 6 years old, she was diagnosed with a rare and terminal disease called Duchenne muscular dystrophy. When we first learned of her condition, we were prepared to take her anywhere in the world for her care. In the eight years that have passed since that day, we have never felt the need to go anywhere other than MUSC Children's Hospital.
The doctors and nurses there have been phenomenal. They have provided us with the highest level of professional care, moral support and loving compassion we could ever wish for, under the circumstances. I cannot count the times they have eased Elizabeth's suffering, held her hand, made her laugh and yes, even saved her life.
Perhaps most importantly, they have made all of us - not just Elizabeth, but our entire family - feel that we were not alone in our ordeal. We have always drawn great comfort in knowing that we had an entire team of extremely gifted, dedicated and compassionate people fighting on her behalf. Just knowing this has somehow made the past eight years a little easier.
Elizabeth has her down moments of course, but she never stays down. By example, she has taught us to look for and celebrate the little joys hidden in each day. She loves going to the movies and talking on the phone. She attends all of her brother's high school basketball games. She has discovered boys, and is planning to attend a spring semi-formal with one of them. She recently told me: "Mom, I don't even feel like I'm in a wheelchair. Life is so good, and I am having so much fun."
In short, Elizabeth has grown into a brave and joyful young woman who celebrates each day as the truly beautiful gift that it is. There is no doubt in my mind that the Children's Hospital has added to these days, both in number and quality.
Ann Anderson
|
|
Print Version