Just when I thought I was all done with anatomy class, a new term has entered into our lives: Long Thoracic Nerve (LTN) It appears that when Suzanne had her lobectomy surgery to remove the cancer nodule from her lung, the LTN was injured, damaged or cut in some fashion that it currently not functioning like it is supposed to.

So what does it do, you might ask. Well, I’ll tell you what I’ve learned. The LTN peals off the spinal column above the shoulder and winds its way under the clavicle, down the ribs to the side chest muscles under the arm which are primarily responsible for keeping the shoulder and shoulder blade in place. Now Suzanne’s left shoulder has dropped down and forward compared to her other one, presenting a chicken wing look on her back as her scapula (shoulder blade) sticks out. OK, enough of the anatomy class.

To add insult to injury, this is on her left side and you guessed it, Suzanne is left-handed. At this point, besides the discomfort it presents because of the muscles not doing what they are supposed to, her lack of mobility is also an issue, she can only raise her left hand about head high.

This is all preliminary as we have only consulted with her Primary Care at this point. The next step is to visit with a physical therapist for further evaluation. Being the avid internet doctor that I am, it appears that her future may include Physical Therapy, Chiropractic care, and even the “S” word which we don’t use around here anymore.

In typical style, Suzanne is already adapting to her new disability. She learned quickly that I’m not a hairstylist as helping her with her ponytail was, well, let’s just say I tried. As a result of my efforts or inability thereof, now when doing her hair she puts her left elbow on the towel rack to hold it high enough to do her hair so that my assistance is no longer needed.

And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever,

John 14:16