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Brave sisters face double operation

Feb 7 2010 by Sara Nichol, Sunday Sun

Mum Sarah Dover with daughters Lucy and Naomi who both suffer from idiopathic scoliosis

BRAVE sisters Lucy and Naomi Dover have always shared a close bond . . . but a rare spinal disease has brought them even closer.

Their lives came crashing down when the active youngsters were diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis – or curvature of the spine – and were told they needed major surgery.

During the past few months, their time has been taken up with trips to the doctors and hospital and they have been forced to give up their sporty lifestyles.

And Lucy, 14, and Naomi, 11, are now gearing-up for potentially life-threatening operations in which metal rods will be inserted into their backs with the aim of straightening their spines.

But they won’t be alone. The inspirational duo, who opted to have the surgery, are undergoing the procedure within a day of each other and will have the support of proud mum and dad Sarah and Paul.

Even though it means giving up school and the sports they love for up to a year, Lucy and Sarah, of South Shields, South Tyneside, have remained positive throughout and keep each other’s spirits up as they face a tough 12 months.

The condition was first noticed in Naomi just six months ago.

Mum Sarah, 41, said: “When we were on holiday, I noticed that Naomi’s shoulder blade was sticking out unusually far.

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