In Part Two of Hannah’s journey, we continue to follow the special needs woman as she prepares for the biggest challenge of her life—a complex spine surgery with Dr. Bassel Diebo of University Orthopedics. 

• WATCH: Part One of Hannah’s Story »

Preparing Body and Mind

For months leading up to surgery, Hannah worked harder than ever before. With her mom by her side, she committed to strengthening her body, going to the gym three times a week, building muscle through weight training, and practicing standing exercises.

“She’s been using a lot of leg weights,” Bethany said proudly. “And we’ve been practicing standing.”

Hannah not only grew stronger but also gained weight, reaching 130 pounds—the healthiest she had been in years. These steps weren’t just physical; they were essential for ensuring Hannah’s body was ready for the complex procedure ahead. Mentally, too, she was prepared: determined, resilient, and hopeful.

A Surgeon’s Careful Plan

Dr. Bassel Diebo of University Orthopedics knew that Hannah’s case was unlike most others. “Hannah is special in many ways,” he explained. Before making a single incision, he personally spoke to every provider who had cared for her in the past, including neurologists and anesthesiologists.

“I told them, I know you might think I’m crazy, but from a technical standpoint, this is doable. Do you think it’s safe for her to have the surgery?” he recalled. While the team agreed that Hannah’s spinal deformity was severe, they also recognized that she was in the best overall health she had been in years. Together, they gave the green light.

Dr. Diebo carefully chose Rhode Island Hospital, a Level One trauma center, for the procedure. He wanted to ensure that if any complications arose, Hannah would have access to the most advanced, around-the-clock care.

Inside the Operating Room

The surgery itself was as intricate as it was daring. Dr. Diebo and his team addressed the severe kyphosis at the base of Hannah’s spine, reshaping her back so that she could stand straighter and stronger.

“This surgery was extremely complex,” he shared. “I even asked plastic surgery to help with wound closure, because in patients with this level of spinal deformity, wound healing can be a big challenge.”

But the operation was a success. With skill, planning, and collaboration, Dr. Diebo helped restore Hannah’s posture and gave her the chance at a new way of moving through the world.

Standing Tall—And Pain-Free

The recovery was astonishing. Each day after surgery, Dr. Diebo visited Hannah in the hospital, expecting to see the toll such a major operation might take. Instead, he found her sitting up as if nothing had happened—smiling, resilient, and determined.

One of the most powerful moments came when Hannah looked at him and said, “Dr. Diebo, I’m pain-free.” For someone who had lived with discomfort for so long, this was nothing short of remarkable.

Ahead of her first office visit, Hannah’s mom sent Dr. Diebo a video, showing Hannah joyfully standing tall without support. “Look, magic!” she exclaimed. For Hannah, the transformation was nothing less than magical.

Looking Ahead

Though the road to full recovery is still ahead, Hannah’s future is filled with possibilities. She dreams of playing basketball while standing tall—and Dr. Diebo believes that in a few months, she will.

“She got what she really wanted and deserved,” he said with a smile.

Part Two of Hannah’s story is about bravery, preparation, and the life-changing power of surgery. It is a story of a young woman’s strength, a mother’s love, and a surgeon’s dedication—all coming together to turn what once felt impossible into reality.

Stay tuned for Part Three, where we’ll share Hannah’s recovery journey and the joyful milestones she reaches along the way.