Sofia’s story · Chapter 5

Preparing Sofia for Spinal Surgery in Switzerland

Preparing for surgery is a process, not a single hospital date. Sofia needs imaging, anesthesia assessment, interdisciplinary review, nutrition and day-to-day stability before the operation can happen safely.

Donate for SofiaRead Sofia's story
Sofia Ema

How the family reached this stage

The June 2026 consultation in Basel confirmed the severity of Sofia’s neuromuscular thoracolumbar scoliosis and established that surgery is medically indicated. From that point, preparation became the family’s central medical goal.

What happens before surgery

The planned preoperative stage includes an anesthesia evaluation, advanced imaging such as MRI, traction radiographs and an interdisciplinary consultation. These investigations help the team understand surgical risk, spinal flexibility and the safest operative plan.

November 2026 in Basel

12 November: anesthesia assessment and preparation.

13 November: planned investigations, including imaging and traction radiographs.

16 November: interdisciplinary consultation to review results and the next steps.

Nutrition is part of surgical preparation

Sofia has had significant nutritional challenges. Her gastrostomy has helped the family deliver calories, fluids and medication more reliably, and every improvement in weight is meaningful before major surgery.

The family monitors her weight closely because a stronger nutritional status may help her tolerate the demands of surgery and recovery.

Therapy does not stop while they wait

Physiotherapy, positioning, orthoses, the spinal corset and home care continue. These measures cannot correct a 90-degree curve, but they remain important for comfort, mobility and keeping Sofia as stable as possible.

The surgery ahead

The surgical estimate describes a major spinal fusion covering multiple segments and a hospital stay that may change depending on Sofia’s condition and recovery. The quoted medical cost can also change if additional care is required.

What the family is preparing financially

The campaign must cover the medical investigations, the surgery itself and the practical costs of travelling and staying in Switzerland for Sofia’s care. €11,000 has been raised so far.

One step at a time

The family is doing the daily work. Support from others can make the next medical step possible.

Donate for Sofia