Submitted by Katie Mossburg

 

Last week, Bridgeport High School was fortunate enough to welcome back Mrs. Anita Byrd after an extended period of medical leave.  The Anatomy I, Anatomy II, and senior seminar teacher has been unable to return to school for about three and a half months after undergoing her second lumbar fusion.

 

Her first surgery was performed two years ago to correct vertebrae that were shifting out of alignment. Because the discs separating the vertebrae had worn down, the vertebrae were able to slide, causing a curve in her spine. Lumbar spinal fusion serves to correct this misalignment by joining two vertebrae in the lower back, rendering them immobile. Her most recent surgery was intended to extend the first fusion she received a couple of years ago.

 

“I am excited to be back because up to this point, my whole life has been hours of physical therapy and television, which is horrible. I was bored,” Byrd said of her absence.

 

Byrd was able to continually oversee senior seminar from home, however, as students sent in their information electronically. Fortunately, Byrd isn’t likely to need another fusion, and said she will not be having any more surgery. She will continue physical therapy for a year and is currently using her “hiking sticks” to help her walk.

 

“My prognosis is good,” Byrd said.

 

Editor’s Note: Katie Mossburg is a student in Mrs. Alice Rowe’s journalism class and submitted this story to Connect-Bridgeport.com. The photos are by Claire Marnic and were also submitted courtesy of the journalism department at the school. Pictured is Ben Wood and Anita Byrd.