Outpatient Therapy Week 2

Today in therapy, since our walker hasn't arrived yet we decided to try a different one that was available. James rocked it! Even despite his "super loose" legs for the time being (until he gains back some more strength). He was so excited to try out a new walker, you could see it in his eyes. Once he felt a little security that he could do it, he walked about 35 feet with Addi assisting him. But notice - no harness! Since his brain still remembers what his legs used to do, which was scissor when stepping forward, he will need to train himself that he doesn't have to do that anymore. Each week is unveiling small progress and a greater confidence.

We've put James in his stander a couple times since his surgery. He's also getting used to stretching with knee immobilizers. We will gradually increase the total time he's wearing them each day (the goal is to wear them for 8 hours while he sleeps each night). .

We've had a great time with my parents here this week. We went to the zoo on Shae's 2nd birthday on Sunday and the science centre yesterday together.

Outpatient Therapy Begins

We've noticed that since James has left the hospital as an inpatient and has begun his 3 week outpatient therapy sessions he has shown a higher degree of motivation. Settling back into the rhythms of the home such as: sitting up in his own chair to eat (instead of in a hospital bed), moving on his own to reach his toys (instead of having them brought to him), interacting with Shae and getting outside for walks, have all required more out of James and we have watched him recover faster since being in our hotel. He has already started to pull his knees in and push his hands up into a four point position. Not bad at all since having spinal surgery a week ago! He's quickly become more like himself.

We said our goodbyes to Heather Ann and James who came to help us for the first week with Shae. It was wonderful to have them visit us each day during our stay at the hospital and to know that Shae was cared for. We visited the Gateway Arch downtown before they left for the long drive north.

Here is a glimpse into what the Outpatient Therapy Services looks like at St. Louis Children's Hospital. They have an incredible facility and a wonderful team.

Therapy with Addy

Day 5

We got discharged from the hospital today! We had a PT session this morning and went over discharge details with both the physio and nurse and then we got to go home - well home for the next 3 weeks anyway (a hotel called the Chase - just a 10 minute walk away from the hospital). It’s so nice to be in our own space again! Outpatient therapy starts tomorrow and will continue Monday-Friday for 3 weeks. Phase 2 begins!

We had a celebratory roast beef dinner tonight made by my mum. It’s been so nice to have my parents here.