May 14, 2009

Conductive Learning Center

We are glad to report that we were able to go to therapy this week at the Conductive Learning Center (CLC). Whitney and I were both overwhelmed by the possibilities of what we can now work on to achieve. I think we both were shocked by the thought of moving since she has not been able to move for 9 months. This is new and exciting ground we are treading on. I could feel Whitney's heart racing as we worked on all of our new 'tricks'. She did a very good job and I think she will get more comfortable as I add them to her daily routine.

Here is an idea of what we are currently working on:

-Sitting up independently from laying on her back.
-Sitting on her hands and knees for a period of time. (This is one of the things she is anxious about doing.)
-Strengthening her back muscles.
-Sitting with her back straight on a bench stool with her feet flat on the ground with and without shoes while reaching for -toys on a desk of sorts.
-Standing in her new shoes (AFO's) while holding on to a bar to balance herself. (another source of anxiety)

Yes, you read that right, standing! She looked so old to me. It was a very exciting and exhausting morning. We were able to get another appointment to go there next Thursday as well. We are learning to hold our plans loosely but the current plan is to go to CLC a few more times this month and in July. Our next step would be to join a parent and child session in September and then possibly every morning, 5 days a week, beginning in January when she turns 2. We have not figured out all of the details but I am sure they will fall into place as time goes on.

Needless to say we have had an encouraging week. Thanks for checking up on us.

May 4, 2009

8 Hours

We received some great news today on Whitney's hip growth. The doctor was optimistic about her progress. First she said we could take the brace off for therapy only. Matt asked if we could have a total of 3 hours off a day. She paused and after further examination said that we could have 8 hours! We were shocked. The goal is to get to 12 hours a day but what a great place to start. She did say that we need to see her in 4 weeks to check on how it is doing. If the growth is declining then we will need to increase the time in the brace. Thank you for your continued prayers.

This Thursday we will pick up her standing shoes (AFO's). It is so exciting to be progressing forward again. I already have phone calls in to get her back into therapy. I hope Whitney is as excited as we are!