When Lucas Giroux was born, there was no sign of anything wrong with his back. As he grew, it became evident that something was indeed wrong. His parents, Gabrielle and George, were soon to discover that Lucas had scoliosis and kyphosis. Scoliosis is curvature of the spine and kyphosis is hunch back. The more Lucas grew, the more the problems escalated.
Lucas, 17, is a senior at Emery High School this year. Although he has enough credits to graduate early, he is staying in school for the experience. He has a 4.0 grade point average and is enjoying his high school days now, and taking some college classes.
In June, Lucas had two surgeries to correct the spinal problems that were beginning to crush his internal organs. The first surgery was on June 2, with a second emergency surgery on June 3 to correct a screw placement. In the first surgery, two 2 foot rods, along with 29 screws were placed to straighten Lucas’ spine. He was in the hospital for 11 days, while the medical bills mounted for the family.
Following the surgery, Lucas became four inches taller, to now stand six foot four inches.
When all was said and done, the hospital bills were $259,000. After insurance, the family has a large part to pay. A benefit to help the family with those expenses is planned for Nov. 8, at the Ferron multipurpose building at the fairgrounds.
The yard sale portion of the fund raiser will begin at 4 p.m. with a chili and Indian fry bread dinner to begin at 5 p.m. There will be entertainment for the evening by Leather and Lace, with an auction to follow at 7 p.m. A beautiful machine quilted quilt has been donated to be raffled also. Donations are also being accepted at any Zions Bank, in Lucas’ name, to help with the medical expenses.
Benefit for Ferron man on Nov. 8 beginning at 4 p.m.
"Gabrielle Giroux, Lucas Giroux, and George Giroux. "