Mom's Update

Courtney had her first try in the 'standing lift' - this is a unique device that starts in the seated position with support in the front of the knees and a harness around the chest. Her feet are placed inside metal foot plates that hold them in place. Slowly the machine brings Courtney to a full standing position. This was an exciting and exhausting moment for the therapists, Courtney and I as she is quite active all the time.

Courtney also stood with help holding onto a bar that looks like something you find in a dance studio. There's no doubt that Courtney wants to stand - the only thing keeping her from standing is the wobbly legs and stiffness in her left ankle. Most other areas that had severe spasticity have improved. She still has problems with her left wrist, elbow and left ankle.
The rest should continue to improve with the pump and physical therapy. For the more difficult areas Courtney will have botox injections and if necessary casting.

Courtney had orange juice, yogurt, chocolate ice cream today. She looked through a very special book that Courtney made on shutterfly about she and her friend Emma. Courtney turned the pages and looked at the pictures.

Courtney's restlessness and increased agitation and aggression are keeping everyone on their toes. She is active regardless of whether she's in bed or in the wheelchair - throwing teddy bears out of bed, pulling at the trachea, grabbing hands, hair and anything else she can get her hands on! Although Courtney's not speaking yet she makes it very clear what she needs and what is bothering her. Each day she's making vocal chord sounds and we all encourage her to speak.

The weekend will be very busy for Courtney with lots of therapy and visits planned by friends and family. Thank you for being understanding when Courtney is receiving therapy and for remembering that she is easily overstimulated by to many people or loud voices. We look forward to seeing visitors and appreciate the cards and packages that arrive daily for Courtney. We change the cards, pictures and other items around her room so that she gets to see it all.