Since birth, the future was grim for active and optimistic Maria Gonzalez. Doctors informed her she would eventually be confined to a wheelchair due to her progressive scoliosis condition. Everything changed when she came to Children's Hospital of Orange County. Afshin Aminian, MD, an orthopedic surgeon, thoroughly studied Maria's medical condition as her parents anxiously prayed for just a glimpse of hope.

Within a few months Dr. Aminian recommended surgery that could potentially improve Maria's prognosis. The summer prior to beginning high school Maria and her family hoped for the best as she underwent corrective surgery. The expert team of Dr. Aminian, Dr. Vinh Lam and Dr. William Loudon performed a successful surgery.

"I can't find the words for the gratitude I feel toward CHOC's team of doctors and nurses," said Maria Guadalupe Tolento, Maria's mother. "Before I cried due to my daughter's illness, but now I cry tears of joy."

Since the surgery, Maria visits CHOC for check-ups and receives at-home physical therapy sessions. She is responding well and a second follow-up surgery will not be required. Maria can hardly wait to begin rollerskating and playing basketball again!

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