Today was a special day. Ben was visited by his class at Bloorview. As you can see, his cast is off. It came off on Thursday, but was not quite the happy occasion we expected. First, Ben decided he didn't want the cast to come off. His intuition was good, because when his leg was finally freed it began to spasm, which is common when a limb has been immobilized for so long. He had a painful weekend with both legs "jumping" around, but last night he had his first good night's sleep in weeks. This morning he insisted on getting right into his chair and wanted to know when he could walk. Later he did stand with his physiotherapist, though he wouldn't put his left foot down flat. For the next few days he'll be practising standing, and hopefully then taking a few steps. The surgeon said it will be a slow process. I never knew how many hurdles there were to jump post-surgery. I'm proud of him.
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7 comments:
So nice of his class to come by for a visit that must have lifted his spirits. Sounds like he's making some good gains in his recovery.
Thanks Sherry! It was wonderful for Ben to see the other students in his class. Some had to come on Wheel Trans so it took a lot of organization on the school's part.
It sounds like you had a wonderful weekend of birthday celebrations! You will have to write a blog for us sometime about Ashley.
Great to see his legs out in the open air! And to see him surrounded by his classmates. I hope the nights of good sleep and the physical progress continue.
Yay!!! I can't imagine how far you must feel that Ben has come! Ben must feel such a relief even if the transition hasn't been easy to being cast free. He looks good, too, in the photo! Small steps!
PS. Terry and I have received our copies of BLOOM and we can't thank you enough! Thank you!!!
Hi Louise,
I wholeheartedly thank you for your email, but first things first. With regars to Ben's rehab--putting pressure on his leg-- he may feel more comfortable or safe using an apparatus called, "The parallel Bars" (his therapist will know what these are). This way, Ben doesn't have to place his full weight on his leg while standing or taking his first steps. However, he may need to remove his gloves in order to fully grip the bars. Moreover, whatever happens, whether be stands on both feet or takes his first steps, it must be his decision. Walking up and stairs will come later. Please, try not to worry, as I faith in Ben.
Now, with regards to my surgery. Yes, unfortunately, it is an 18 month waiting period. However, this is only because my sergeon is the only one who preforms this type of sergery at Sunnybrook Hospital and has some experiece with disabled persons. Truth be told, "although I'm a good candate for the procedure, I am taking a risk as I believe that I am the second or third with a disability to undergo a tibia rotational osteotomy. With this said, I'm also willing to take a chance for three reasons. First, I need to be walking ten years from now. Second, I have to try and walk a cancer relay for Alex. Third, this operation may be a vital to aid to keeping people with Cerebral Palsy healthy and active for a little while longer. Furthermore, between us and your readers, finding medical care beyond the parameters of Sick Kids or Bloorview Kids Rehab is hard, but it needs to be done. God Bless Barb Farlow.
Goodnight and thanks for everything,
Matt Kamaratakis
What a terrific kid! He looks transformed!
Yayyy! I've been following Ben's story and am so happy to see him cast free and surrounded by his classmates. It sounds like he's doing great. What a spunky guy!
Maxine.
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