Hi Mymollybt,
I agree with Maria, that really doesn't sound like our experience in Philly at all. In fact we met with the PA (Janet Cerrone) then Dr Betz for a total of over 90 minutes. I am sorry to hear your appt was rushed--was it in Philly?-or another Shriners? They really are different in Philly than other Shriners in my experience (we have also been seen at Shriners Portland).
My experience with Philly is if you let them know you have concerns about your child's psychological adjustment to bracing, they will find an alternative for your child. My young daughter was prescribed 16 hrs/day of bracing, and Dr Betz told her she did not have to wear it to school. I believe this is his recommendation when at all possible. And of course if you are interested, VBS can be an alternative to bracing in some children. Have you tried contacting them and letting them know your explicit concerns, and specifically requesting if the Providence or Charleston would be a possible option for your daughter? They understand that a daunting schedule of 23 hours, if distressing to the child, will not be complied with. In that case, they should work with you to find another alternative.
Good luck! I can not imagine having to cope with having two braced children. Please let us know how things are going.
Gayle, age 50
Oct 2010 fusion T8-sacrum w/ pelvic fixation
Feb 2012 lumbar revision for broken rods @ L2-3-4
Sept 2015 major lumbar A/P revision for broken rods @ L5-S1
mom of Leah, 15 y/o, Diagnosed '08 with 26* T JIS (age 6)
2010 VBS Dr Luhmann Shriners St Louis
2017 curves stable/skeletely mature
also mom of Torrey, 12 y/o son, 16* T, stable