Travel, cute shoes and horseback riding are back thanks to successful foot surgery

Whether it’s taking care of her aging mother or managing serious health issues, Connie Beard has met her challenges with determination and positivity. Those traits have not only been helpful to her, but others facing similar situations.

As an only child, Connie took care of her mother who was facing serious health issues at the same time she was diagnosed with breast cancer. During her treatment at Henry Ford Health, she cheered other breast cancer patients on while battling the disease.

“When I was undergoing chemotherapy and would see other patients who looked sad, I would tell them we’re going to stay strong and we’re going to make it. It’s important to keep your spirits up and think positive to get you through the challenges life brings you.”

A proud wife, mother of two and grandmother of five, the 59-year-old Detroit resident says she is humbled and thankful for the Henry Ford Health team that has been a source of comfort during her challenging times.

“When I lost my mother, I was also undergoing breast cancer treatment. My Henry Ford team called to check on me to see how I was doing despite my loss and continued to offer support during my healing, says Connie. “I appreciate them 100 percent because they did not have to do that, but they did.”

In addition to being a breast cancer survivor, Connie also faced several foot related problems that hindered her ability to do the things she loved, like horseback riding, wearing fashionable shoes, swimming and dancing.

She notes that she had issues with both feet and went to a specialist outside of Henry Ford that did surgery on her right foot.

“I was told that it would take 6-7 months to heal. It was very painful, I was walking off balance and my right foot ended up being significantly shorter than my left foot after surgery,” an emotional Connie recalls. “My left foot was a size 8½ and my right foot ended up being a size 7. I couldn’t wear the same shoes, and in addition to the pain, it hindered my ability to do everyday activities that you take for granted."

Life-changing foot surgery with Henry Ford

Not satisfied with the outcome, Connie called her Henry Ford Nurse Navigator for a second opinion and was thrilled to meet with Henry Ford Foot and Ankle Surgeon Nicole, Brouyette, DPM who offered her new hope.

Dr. Brouyette explains Connie experienced significant changes in both her feet due to her bones undergoing multiple procedures, which can lead to bone shortening.

“When someone experiences two different limb sizes, issues occur with finding shoes that fit properly and can cause pain, blisters and instability or strain impacting daily activities like walking, running or standing,” says Dr. Brouyette.

After consulting with Dr. Brouyette, Connie elected to have a bone lengthening procedure to accurately lengthen her foot to match her other side.

“We lengthened her foot with innovative technology used at Henry Ford Heath and bone grafting techniques,” says Dr. Brouyette. “This isn't a common elective procedure, and she was aware of the risks involved including the need for further surgery.”

After having a detailed conversation about the benefits and risk potential, Connie agreed to the procedure.

“She has since had a smooth transition through her recovery due to her excellent compliance with instruction, and I'm happy to report she is back wearing the shoes she has purchased over the years pain free,” adds Dr. Brouyette.

Lengthening foot surgery has Connie back in action.

Although Connie suffered for more than 6 months with the initial foot surgery, the second surgery with Dr. Brouyette healed much quicker and fixed the discrepancy in her shoe size. After just one month, Connie was out of her cast and wearing sneakers.

“I feel very strongly that Dr. Brouyette has gifted hands and her gift has allowed me to heal quickly and get both of my feet back in action to do the things I love, says Connie. “My Henry Ford Team is all about compassion and the best care, and I’m so thankful they are with me every step of the way.”