CIMT Birmingham Alabama - Week 3

Monday - In true Monday fashion Lincoln was excited and ready to see Jackie this morning.   He almost took out another child as he ran towards her, but deep down we are both grateful he is still happy to be at therapy.  Lincoln worked hard today and we continue to work on pointer and pincher grasps.   Tuesday - Well I knew this day was coming -- but today was melt down city!  And melt some more, and some more.  Ha ha, laugh so you don't cry right?  It was very obvious to Jackie and myself today that Lincoln was mentally exhausted.  He slept good last night, so the physical aspect was OK, but the little things were very upsetting to him and today we just did what we could, which was not a lot.  Today was dog therapy so Lincoln did enjoy that and calm down some which was a nice break.  Music therapy was today as well, but we let Susan move on as the harp did not seem to be helping.  We ended our day by swinging in the gym and chatting.  Lincoln has worked extremely hard for two weeks with very little argument or episodes, which at three is very good.  Hoping for a great rest of the week!  

On a positive note - we were able to make a nighttime splint today that will help Lincoln stretch while he is sleeping.  I am excited to try this and see if it makes a difference in his forearm rotation (supination).  

Wednesday - Another great, productive day in therapy! Since it is our last week, we are focusing a lot on using thumb and pointer.  Today Lincoln got to play with Duncan (4 yr) who started this week.  They enjoyed a little break while still working.  Duncan has older brothers so he was more competitive than Lincoln at the checker launch, but Lincoln was thrilled to try something new.  Stevie the therapy dog stopped by today and showed us a new puzzle, and then we ended today shopping for superhero and swinging!  I scheduled for next year today as well, so I guess unless something major changes we will be back!  

Thursday - Day 4 has come and gone and boy did we have fun today!  Last night I was able to test the new brace for his right hand and he seemed to tolerate it well until around 5 am when he asked for it off.  It is to help with his supination and I am really hoping for a positive outcome over other alternatives.  

Therapy started a little slow as Lincoln was able to remove his cast last night but had to put it on for half of therapy today.  However, he adapted well and worked hard.  Today Duncan and Lincoln rode bikes to the park and Lincoln was able to have his cast off for good!  At the park he swung a bat and hit a ball quite a few times.  He honestly looked very natural for a three year old and my heart was bursting as it is the little things in life that make me proud.  I do not care if he ever plays baseball but if he wants to I want him to! 

Jackie explained that once the cast comes off the left hand, the right hand may regress a little, and encouraged me to continue working with right hand tonight.  We went to the McWane Science Center after therapy one last time today and now we are home resting, packing and getting ready to head home tomorrow!  Plus, mommy is SUPER EXCITED to dump Lincoln in the bath tub!  You guys have no idea how hard it is to only sponge bathe a toddler for 3 weeks.  Plus if your child has ever had a cast you know how much they stink!  

Friday - Skipping this update because after therapy we are headed straight to the airport!  However, if I was to post, I know it would be telling you about the rock wall Lincoln will climb tomorrow as he has been promised the entire 3 weeks of therapy he can do it the last Friday we are here!  Lincoln and I did not want to spend another night without daddy and are looking forward to being home.  Say a prayer for us that the flights go smoothly and we make our short layover. 

Thank you to everyone who has followed this journey!  The journey does not end here, as there will be tons of work at home, and we have decided to schedule again for next year already --  which means homework for the year as well!  CIMT in Birmingham is very well known and the spots fill up fast.  For those who wonder if it works, I do believe it is beneficial in training the brain.  The reality is three weeks will not change him dramatically without the continuous effort -- but even as adults unless we practice, or work out everyday, study etc .. we don't change either.  I am heading home with the mentality that has to be a lifestyle for Lincoln and myself and we can try to make it as fun as possible!  Feel free to message me with questions, comments etc.  I have worked very hard over the past few years to channel the emotions surrounding my son into something that can make a difference.  If this helps even one person, than we have succeeded together!  

Different Ideals of Beauty

If only our eyes saw

souls instead of bodies ...

how very different our

ideals of beauty would be.

 I pondered this quote when I initially saved it.  It touched my heart but I wasn't sure to what depth or exactly why.  Usually when something stirs me so deeply it is for a reason.  I realized today what that reason was.  We live in a culture of judgment!  Oh how we judge, when we shouldn't.  People are beautiful.  Behind the outside shell of a body lies souls that are brave, courageous, and strong.  

I spent today in Chattanooga TN, and I want to share two very different interactions with you that I experienced.  I walked into a restaurant with my 3 year old son around noon, hungry and tired from a train ride this morning.  He has a bright red cast on his left arm as many of you know if you follow that we have been in Alabama for two weeks of therapy.  One week to go - yahoo!  A family of three were sitting at a table as we entered and I listened as they had a conversation about his cast for at least 5 minutes.  Yes, I could hear them, and yes as a mother I wanted to walk right over and ask them if they'd like to see it, ask me about it or talk to my sweet little boy -- instead I stood my ground while they took turns commenting and turning to stare.  My parenting was defined by them for the cast he wore, and his sweet personality was missed as they only saw the material on his arm.  Let me tell you what they didn't see.  A mother who has been working hard with a toddler for two weeks in therapy, forcing him to do things that are SO hard, asking him to work harder when he has nothing left and falls asleep in the car, and then asking him to do more when he wakes up from his nap.  I see a little boy out of his element, away from his preschool and his daddy.  I see a little boy who every morning asks to play more games with Jackie - a girl he just met but makes work fun for him.  I see the progress he has made and the success and pride I feel over being his mother.  That's just him!  What they don't see while I held him today waiting for a table are the tears that fall over the fact that I have received multiple comments over that stupid red cast, and the heartache I feel that he even had to come to Alabama for therapy in the first place.  If I had a dollar for everyone who thinks he broke it or told him to be more careful when we are out and about I would be rich.  They don't see the failure I have been when my patience wears thin after long days these past two weeks and the moments where I have to take a deep breath.  They don't see the bravery it takes to smile at them and pretend they didn't comment in the first place, or the strength to practice grace.  They don't see my soul.  They see a mom with a little boy they assumed has a broken arm.

At the same restaurant, my son and I were now seated and he was tired, not loving being confined while we waited for our food and was yes - whining.  A man walked over to my table and said "can I show him something?" ... of course at first it seemed odd as he had his water in his hand but I said yes, because the distraction wouldn't hurt anything, and I really didn't mind.  He had taken the paper from his straw and crinkled it up ... remember this as a kid?  As he set it in front of my son memories of straw snakes fled back, and as he dropped water on the paper the snake grew!  He then set four straws on my table and said ... I have four kids, hes doing great.  I almost didn't know what to say.  I thanked him, and Lincoln and I made four more snakes grow.  He didn't comment once about the red cast.  He saw a mom who was trying, and a son who was unhappy and he seized the moment to show empathy and kindness.  I believe he saw beauty.  

I want to tell you I can share a million stories of beauty with you.  In three years of being in and out of children's hospitals, therapy and working at Mayo Clinic, I have seen broken hearts, children with physical impairments, unfair diagnosis young and old, I've cried with patients and moms -- and as I write this tonight with tears falling I urge you to open up your eyes the next time you see someone struggling, a child in a wheelchair, or with bracing, an elderly person with a walker, a mother losing her patience -- the list could go on and on and on.  Whatever the situation, don't be so quick to judge.  I want to leave you pondering this post with a story of a little girl who can't walk that we met these last few weeks -- her grandpa brings her to therapy so she can strengthen areas and her smile lights up a room.  Everyone knows her, talks to her, and comments about her smile.  Yes, she sits in a chair, doesn't say anything but boy can she smile.  She is absolutely beautiful, the apple of her grandpas eye and a true testament to every reason I despise judgment.

CIMT Birmingham Alabama - Week 2

Weekend: We had a nice weekend with some sunshine and 60 degree weather.  We spent one morning at the Birmingham Zoo where Lincoln enjoyed riding the train, seeing the lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, and other animals.  Whenever we have traveled in the past for appointments or therapy we always visit the local zoo, so we had to keep the tradition going!  Again, Children's was great and wrote a letter saying we were visiting for therapy and our admission to the zoo was free.  I love the effort they put into the families who travel here to see them.  It is a nice touch when a lot of the expense is out of pocket already.  Sunday was a quiet day for Lincoln and I, we attended church, went to the gym and grocery shopping, finishing the evening with homework.  Looking forward to completing week 2. Monday: Mom's are amazing aren't they?  Well really all parents are amazing!  However, I could tell this morning was going to be a tough one from the moment Lincoln got up and even though I put on my best smile and found an optimistic attitude I will admit to you all the idea of crawling back in bed with my coffee sounded wonderful.  One of the reasons I love sharing adventures and blogging is to be honest.  The superficial stories are fun to read, but they give altered perceptions of perfection, which is not reality.  Week one was awesome, I couldn't have asked for more!  But that doesn't mean some days are not hard.  I wouldn't change anything we are doing here, but I think it is OK to be honest that I have had to remember all Lincoln is going through and take a few deep breaths on certain days when I would give anything to have a few minutes at a local coffee shop to myself.  My patience at moments needed work and a few tears have fallen between so many good moments! 

Therapy today went well overall, with a few tantrums in between games.  Lincoln played with some new toys, painted, went shopping (yes, you guessed it) and ended his session with a treat of playing/working on Jackie's I-pad because he listened so well.  Today while he was on the I-pad I answered questions regarding his progress and it was fun to discuss with Jackie the things we really have seen improvement on.  I was encouraged today that he is better at using his pointer finger and able to turn the weighted shopping cart better with his right hand only.  As with anything in life, change does not happen over night and it takes hard work and consistency.  This will be the thing as Lincoln's mom that I need to remember most when we go home because daily activities will be important.  

Fun Fact - The gas station's here have hand sanitizer by the pump!

Tuesday: Can I get a WA-HOOOOOO!!!  Today was a big win!  Not only was Lincoln in a great mood, he had an awesome day in therapy.  A lot of movements we have been working on in therapy and at home were easier for him today and more natural.  He still has a long way to go, but we have learned to celebrate all the little and big things.  I am so thankful to see progress, especially after he was a little cranky yesterday.

After therapy today we went to buy him some new shoes.  The ones he has for his brace, are heavy and he does not like them.  We found a fun pair that he loves and to my happiness they aren't terrible colors.  Ha ha, do other moms feel me here?  I am all about the super heroes and making my little man feel special, but I am always grateful when he picks reasonable things!  By the shoe store was a bakery a couple people recommended to us, so we had a Valentine's Day treat too! Wednesday:  

Downtown Homewood is where we went shopping today and it has adorable stores to browse including the bakery I mentioned above and a local toy store.  

Today was an off day for Lincoln.  Not because he didn't try, because he did work very hard, but it was clear to us he was under the weather.  He did not sleep well last night due to a fever and I ended up going to the ER today for a small skin wound that was red and puffy.  Had I been in Phoenix, I would have watched it and not taken him in, however it is on the right arm which is the side we are working hard on and I did not want to take a chance as we still have over a week left in Alabama.  Unfortunately being out of town, the ER was our option as the after hours care wouldn't see us.  Yuck!  The ARNP was great and gave us an antibiotic to fight any infection, a topical ointment and I have been giving him Tylenol for the fever.  Could be a mix of a few thingsw, as mnay germs are in the air, but I am praying my bubby is back to normal soon!  Today he was sleepy, and wanted me to carry him - which is not like my wild, fun boy.  Hence the scrath on his arm to start with. *he was playing at the gym for those wondering how he got it, it is not the casted arm.    

Side Note: Can I just say how amazing the Children's ER was in Birmingham?  They had us checked in and in a private room within ten minutes!  I live in a large city in Arizona and you would think the experience would be awesome, but I am not sure it comes close in comparison.  Huge, huge, huge kudos to Birmingham as they have obviously done something right to be so well known that people travel here!

Thursday:  Today was a HUGE day for success!  Lincoln was able to isolate his "pointer" finger for tasks and pushing buttons.  We have been working hard for him to do this and it was so exciting to see him succeed today.  I would never in my own life think this would be hard, but when your brain tells you to use all your fingers together, being able to isolate pointer, or thumb and pointer together is very difficult.  It requires repetition before it becomes a natural movement.  We saw Kodi the therapy dog again today, went shopping as always and Jackie surprised Lincoln with some new superheros to capture as well as multiple fun new games to play!  Overall a great week with a few bumps but I am happy to say week two is almost over! 

Huge THANK YOU to those who have called over the last two weeks to check on me or chat!  Lincoln is great company but adult conversation means more than you know!

Friday:  Skipping today's post as after therapy Lincoln and I are headed to Chattanooga!  We are excited for a fun filled weekend away from the apartment.  Stay tuned for the updates and photos of our adventures in TN!

CIMT Birmingham Alabama - Week 1

As promised, here are some daily highlights from Birmingham Alabama!  Brief overview again for those who are not aware of what it is, CIMT stands for Constraint Induced Movement Therapy.  A number of treatments are given to teach the brain to "rewire" itself following a major injury such as a stroke or head injury.  The research completed by Edward Taub, PHD and the University of Alabama at Birmingham showed that patients can "learn" to improve the ability to move the weaker parts of their bodies.  Allowing them to use both sides of the extremities and not only rely on the stronger extremity.  In simple terms, we are hoping that Lincoln will be able to use both hands/arms together to make everyday things easier for him.  We are in Birmingham for three weeks of therapy, 3 hours every Monday - Friday with homework at night and on the weekends.  

As I packed to leave our home for three weeks, I read this quote and felt that it was perfect for Lincoln and I.  Alabama was a choice, but together it will be our home for 3 weeks and I know we are giving it all we have while we are here.  

Sunday: It didn't take long for me to realize an apartment with limited TV channels and none of our regular toys would not be ideal for Lincoln and I.  When leaving Arizona, I packed books, coloring, and a few other small items knowing he would need distractions,  however it was not enough.  The weather today was rainy outside, so we were stuck indoors, thankfully the forecast looks better for the week.  Much to our excitement (ok MY excitement) we found the only LIFETIME Fitness in Alabama less than ten minutes away and mommy got her workout in while Lincoln played in the child center with kids - all for no additional cost to our membership at home in Scottsdale!  We watched the Superbowl this evening and are turning in early as tomorrow starts Day 1 of therapy!  

He was so excited to FLY!

Monday: Today was an exceptionally good first day!  Having a three year old means every appointment or new event can go well or be a total disaster.  Leaving for therapy today I felt like an utter failure of a mom.  Lincoln did not want to put his shoes on and insisted on wearing yesterdays monster truck shirt which I denied and I thought for sure we would be late as I tried to rush a toddler to eat cheerios!  Have you ever been there?  Success was merely checking in on time, but even that was hectic as my information had not been correctly transferred into Children's system.  Cynthia at the front desk was kind and efficient and had the best welcoming smile.  As I sat in the waiting room it was adorable watching Lincoln look at little kids his age.  I started talking to a sweet mother who's son had been to Alabama six times for the program, and she shared the key ins and outs which was great!   

Miss Jackie introduced herself as our occupational therapist and Lincoln liked her from the start because she let him take his name band off which he was not a fan of!  He made sure to tell her about Genna, Stina (Christina) and Seesaw (Melissa) his beloved therapists back home, which warms my heart because he does spend lots of time with them.  We spent our three hours today going over history, grading Lincoln's motions and capability of the right arm, set goals and had two casts made.  He picked red and blue - like spiderman, superman and batman.  He considered green for the turtles but didn't follow through.  Oh to have choices!  Gone are the days where mom got to pick!  At least he didn't choose pink, ha ha!

Lincoln cooperated for Jackie like a champ and I was pleased as a mama to see how polite and kind he was.  Again back to the first paragraph where I was totally failing, lol -- believe me my patience has been a little lacking after traveling.  It is always lovely as parents to see the best of us come out through our children in manners and such.  Jackie was impressed with his skill level thus far and I am super excited to see how much we can learn in three weeks.  Jackie is as strong willed as Lincoln and they will be a perfect fit!  We left with a blue cast today and Lincoln's understanding that only Jackie can remove it, not mommy.  We will see how that goes.  Lincoln is an extremely typical little boy and does not need my assistance when he has full use of his strong side, however with that arm/hand in a cast he becomes more reliant upon me which will be frustrating and trying for us both.  

As a mom, the first few days of these adventures are exhausting and emotional.  It brings back all the feelings of why us, why Lincoln, I had a healthy pregnancy and it is not fair, and even though people try to understand they do not.  It is not unusual for me to shed a few tears and today I even took a nap while Lincoln napped.  At the same time, I was encouraged too as Lincoln was able to do a lot of things most kids cannot and it is a true testament to how hard we have worked weekly for years to give him every opportunity in life thus far.  Even as adults we like to see hard work pay off, and it is no different with a child.  Some days I want to take him out of therapy and not worry about how he plays with toys at home and if he's doing tasks correctly, but those days pass and I am beyond grateful for amazing insurance, amazing therapists and an amazing daddy who allows me to work part time.  

Day one is officially in the books and after Lincoln wakes up from his nap we are off to the gym and the store!  Routine will be my sanity!  

Day 1 with a cast went WAY better than mama expected!

Tuesday: Day two was a success!  I know the post will come that I say we had a rough day or a meltdown, because that is the reality of a 3 year old, but I am seriously a proud mama today!  Lincoln worked hard for 3 hours and just kept going like that little train that could.  His attention span is short, so Jackie has a lot of activities and games ready to keep him going.  Eating is more of a challenge as his dominant hand is casted, but he did really well with that too.  My little man is one determined guy!  Today we left with homework, so after Lincoln wakes up from his nap we will start some of those items ~ yes there are multiple things we are expected to work on.  I am learning new things which I love.  Medicine is a passion of mine, the way the body and brain works is amazing. Lincoln is tired everyday so far and naps are necessary as well as a good nights sleep.  I wanted to nap again today, but instead I did a HIIT workout (BBG) while Lincoln slept.  I expect my son to work hard for multiple hours a day, and he does!  So in turn I really have zero excuse as his mom to not then work hard myself.  Traveling takes a lot out of people and food choices become lazy and human nature leans towards convenience.  I am doing my best to keep us both on track!  

Lincoln Loves Shopping For Super Hero's

Wednesday: Day 3, and halfway through the week!  Lincoln is still doing SO WELL!  Today felt like we were a little more in our routine and I am happy to say Lincoln did not fall asleep on the drive home as it makes transferring him to the house for a nap more difficult.  Therapy was still new and fun for Lincoln today so he enjoyed it.  For those wondering what constraint therapy activities consist of it is pretty much anything that requires Lincoln to use his right (weaker) arm/hand.  He practiced supination (rotating his palm to neutral and up) exercises with stickers which he loved, practiced throwing bouncy balls for shoulder strength and movement, weight bearing, and played with race cars.  One of his favorite daily activities is shopping for super heroes!  Jackie sets them all around the halls, in cupboards, on the railing, and copy machine, you name it she gets creative -- and Lincoln has to push a weighted shopping cart with one hand and collect them all.  He loves it, as do most the kids from what I am told.  It is amazing to me how many things there are to keep children's attention.  Lincoln has made friends with kids who have the same casts and he is starting to warm up to more people.  

Highlights of today were: Susan playing the Harp for us during our sticker exercise and then Lincoln getting to play with her on his own harp, as well as Stevie the therapy dog stopping by to say hi.  Both of these fun things are available because of wonderful volunteers.  It was a nice break and distraction as three hours is a long time for a little boy to focus.  

The weather is rainy again today.  It seems to be clearing up so maybe we can play in the park nearby this afternoon.  We have more homework today, so our evening will be busy!  If tomorrow goes well at therapy, we hope to attend the McWane Science Center in the afternoon.  It has great reviews for kids, AND Jackie has some free tickets for us from Children's which is a bonus!  

Side note for anyone looking into the CIMT program here in Alabama -- I have met two families who say the Ronald McDonald house is being renovated and is wonderful.  As a family we chose not to take a room there even though it was offered.  In our experience of hospitals and therapy there are so many people who need the services and there often is a long wait list.  For families who may want there own space, Children's also offers a full list of furnished rentals, hotels and other options with discounts as well!  However, from chatting with one mom, the Ronald McDonald house has multiple discounts to surrounding activities, has meals and treats brought in regularly, and are only a few blocks away from the outpatient center which is more convenient than our 30-45 minute drive in traffic.  Definitely worth looking into from the sounds of it, even though I have not seen it personally.  

True meaning of "SUPER" is this little boy!

Thursday: It is hard to believe today was already day 4!  Tomorrow week one will be over, with two more to go!  Lincoln had another fun day playing with shaving cream, shopping (kid is crazy about this) and walking and throwing balls for a new therapy dog named Kodi, among other therapy tasks of course.  He amazes me daily with his determination and today I teared up a little over him telling Jackie "on my own" over eating his yogurt alone with his spoon.  To the average person, you may take these things for granted, or not think of them at all because your child could eat with either hand, but for Lincoln the fact that he is doing this alone with his weaker side is AWESOME!  Therapy regardless of where we are is realistic with expectations and as a parent you never want to be too hopeful, but I must say deep in my heart I have always had high hopes for Lincoln and we have been blessed with great therapists who never dim my fire, they encourage and push and believe in Lincoln too!  So thank you to those people, I know I don't say it in person enough.  I plan to work on that this year!

Shaving Cream Fun!

After therapy today Lincoln and I spent three FUN FILLED hours at the McWane Science Center.  Children's of Alabama provided us free tickets and because of that the science center in turn paid our parking.  I am beyond grateful for the kindness of everyone!  One small nuisance of being in public is the constant comments of his broken arm, how did he hurt it, parents telling him to be careful you already have a boo boo, etc.  I am a strong mama, but I am human and it takes everything in me not to defend him or myself as some comments are quite judgmental.  Instead of responding, I let him fall, told him to shake it off, watched as he tumbled, jumped and ran around like a wild, typical little boy -- and cheered him on until he was so tired he could barely walk straight that I carried him out as he cried over leaving.  In my head true strength was responding with a smile ~ as I am the first to say it doesn't matter what people think right?  This is of course true, but it still stings when you love someone as amazing as Lincoln.  What is it adults say?  You can't judge a book by its cover? May we all continue to learn this lesson in all aspects of life!  

If you ever have a chance to visit this while in Birmingham it is perfect for kids of all ages!  I took a million photos, but figured I better only post a few.  

http://www.mcwane.org

His favorite floor was the kids gym!

Flying!

Water was tricky as he had to keep the cast dry!

Friday: Crash and burn!  That pretty much describes our Friday therapy session.  I knew the day was coming as Lincoln has done exceptionally well for his age all week.  Today felt like a complete disaster to me, with tantrums, crying and even (gasp) hitting with his cast!  Side note: it really does make a great weapon, ha ha!  I was mortified but Jacked was unfazed.  At the end she told me it wasn't a bad day overall, which made me chuckle.  In hind site of leaving, I know Lincoln did soem good work in between the chaos washing dirty dinosaurs, launching circles in the air, and again SHOPPING!  

Thank you to everyone who checks in with us and sends encouragment our way daily.  I never knew how strong I was until I had this little boy, and I see daily that he is ten times more strong than I am.  

Quick Update

Thank you for all the love and support I've received the past couple days with well wishes and safe travels for my family!  Lincoln and I made it to Alabama safely and in one piece!  The first flight my beloved toddler was an angel.  He even fell asleep for a while which reminded me of the old days when we traveled a couple times a month.  Our layover in Dallas was uneventful, we had time for lunch and Lincoln enjoyed some ice cream.  The second flight however, reminded me why I quit flying as much from 2-3, ha ha, I secretly cannot wait for 4 years old!  My angel turned demon, spilling a drink and crying for ten minutes while we landed over having to wear his seat belt.  In those moments I want to cry myself but as most people know that does no good, so I smiled at those around me and assured him we were almost there.  I do want to take a moment to share that in three years of flying with my son more miles than I can count, I have been very lucky to have amazing people around me ... from spectrum's of parents who understand, grandparents who entertain, strangers who help break down a stroller or pick up your baggage ... let's give a shout out to all those who have been in our shoes and may we always remember if we travel without our kids to be just as kind and understanding as we appreciate people being to us!  After the airport our evening was uneventful with finding our apartment and grocery shopping at Walmart.  We are hunkered in for the evening and look forward to exploring more tomorrow!  I am happy to report I passed a mall and a Starbucks five minutes away from where we are staying!  I plan to post weekly updates of Lincoln's progress for anyone interested.  I have mixed emotions headed into Monday as we will be spending three weeks without daddy/my husband, in a new place, but I am so grateful to be able to experience the Children's of Alabama therapy with my son.  I believe in progressive medicine and I believe in him.

Headed to Alabama

When I think of places to travel and things I want to see -- I don't know that Alabama ever came to mind.  I chuckle when I think of Reese Witherspoon in Sweet Home Alabama as she tells her friends in NYC that she cannot meet them because she's in "Alabama" -- said with a sarcastic, disgusted tone.  Side note: if you have not seen the movie, you should!  It's a great chick flick! However, I am excited to go to Birmingham, Alabama.  Lincoln and I will be spending one month at Children's of Alabama for Constraint Induced Movement Therapy in February 2017.  My husband and I have spent hours reading, researching, and learning the past 3 years and are always trying to give Lincoln the opportunities in life he deserves.  We both have looked into the program in Alabama in the past but set the idea aside due to life being busy or the timing not being right.  Now we are making the appointment a reality, and I am so excited!  Working at Mayo Clinic I believe in top quality care, innovation and being the best of the best.  The program at Children's of Alabama is known for being just that!

What Is CIMT? CIMT stands for Constraint Induced Movement Therapy.  A number of treatments are given to teach the brain to "rewire" itself following a major injury such as a stroke or head injury.  The research completed by Edward Taub, PHD and the University of Alabama at Birmingham showed that patients can "learn" to improve the ability to move the weaker parts of their bodies.  Allowing them to use both sides of the extremities and not only rely on the stronger extremity.  It is the only rehabilitation technique shown to produce a noticeable change in brain organization and function.  In simple terms, we are hoping that Lincoln will be able to use both hands/arms together to make everyday things easier for him.

How Does It Work? Lincoln will work with an occupational therapist for 3-4 hours per day x 3 weeks.  His stronger arm (left arm) will be completely restrained using a cast extending from the upper shoulder down to the fingertips.  The weaker arm (right arm) is then trained using play situations appropriate to the child's stage of development.  Lincoln will be 3 years of age when he does this.  At age 1, we completed a shorter version of CIMT at Gillette Children's in Minnesota and saw results.  Of course like anything in life, therapy and progress does not end when we leave Alabama.  As his mom, I am fully prepared to continue my role with therapy, and know that it will take endless dedication and practice at home as well.

Why Put Him Through It? I never dreamt of being a therapy mom when I thought about having a child.  I never even thought about the possibility my child would need it.  Some days I want to cancel all of our appointments and let him play how he wants, and just be a kid.  Then I remember that everything I am doing is for his well being and future.  I watch him play and work hard in therapy and for now can see that he doesn't know the difference.  If this can help him stay healthy and be stronger, then I will dedicate my time to his well being just as I take time everyday for myself to do things that better me such as the gym, eating healthy, etc.

How Have I Changed From CIMT The First Time? Emotionally I am a stronger person and in a better place.  I have accepted the diagnosis and am Lincoln's biggest advocate.  At one year of age, people constantly asked me how he broke his arm (because he was casted) and the looks I received while they asked often made me feel like an awful mother, even though I knew I wasn't.  I truly did not know how to handle the judgment.  I have been judged before myself, but when it involves your child, it is a completely different feeling.  This time around I am excited for us.  I am sharing with others so they can understand more about pediatric strokes and understand therapy.  I believe the world needs more optimism and awareness on many issues and I happen to be passionate about this one!  Have a question??  Please feel free to comment below and I am more than happy to answer.

Fun Things To Do In Birmingham Having spent a lot of time traveling with Lincoln since he was small, one thing I try to do as a mom is make the most of our trips.  We love visiting zoos, science centers, the children's museum, parks, take walks and simply explore.  We have already started a list of adventures that we will tackle on the weekends and days he isn't too tired from therapy.  I want Lincoln to see the world through his own eyes.  Yes I realize he is 3, but therapy is A LOT of HARD work, and he deserves to have fun too!  

Pediatric Stroke Awareness

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world.  ​Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” 

 Margaret Mead 

Like many people I meet and share my story with, I was unaware that a child, let alone an infant, or an unborn baby could have a stroke.  The news was shocking when a pediatric neurologist at Mayo Clinic looked me in the eyes and told me my son had experienced one.  There is so much growth needed in the awareness avenue regarding the topic that I wanted to start by sharing with you the basic facts!  Please note this is only the beginning of what happens and I hope to continue to share more in the future! 

A Few Facts

• Strokes can occur before birth, in infants, children and young adults

• Risk of stroke is highest in the first year of life and peaks during the perinatal period (a few weeks before and after birth)

• Occurrence - 1 in every 2800 live births (this is likely underestimated

• Sixty percent of infants with a stroke diagnosis have specific symptoms such as seizures in the first three days of life

• Forty percent of infants will have no symptoms and the stroke is recognized later with delays in movement, development or seizures. (This was Lincoln, diagnosed later even though he spent time in the NICU with complications. We just did not know the extent of them despite multiple tests being performed.)

Cause

• In most cases, like ours, the cause is unknown

My Baby Isn't Using One Hand

• Hand preference should not be determined or noticeable before the age of one year and often much later than that. So a child who favors one hand, leaves the other hand in a fist, or doesn't bring both hands together during play needs to be referred for further testing.

• Delays in early milestones -- rolling, sitting, pulling to stand, crawling and walking -- are additional reasons for evaluation.

• This is a common reason or first sign that families notice. (With Lincoln hand preference before at just months old is what prompted us to go back to Mayo Clinic.)

Ways of Diagnosing

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

• Ultrasound

• Electroencephalogram (EEG) if seizures are suspected

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) performed if a heart problem is present or suspected, often associated with strokes

• Blood samples to check for blood clotting disorders.

• Other tests may be performed outside this list depending on the patients needs

Therapy

Children often receive multiple therapies for long periods of time -- some even decades or as long as needed.  Therapies may include (but are not limited to) occupation, physical and speech therapy to help them learn skills for daily living and to increase movement.  

Therapy & Summer Breaks

I wanted to take a moment to encourage moms and families that summer is a great time to let your little one take a break!  I think a lot of "therapy moms" (or dads) feel the pressure to never miss a day, and make sure our children are always making progress, which is awesome and complete dedication.  However, our kids are still kids, and missing a day in the grand scheme of things, is not a big deal. Lincoln is 2.5 years old and making great strides.  I asked for some progress reports this last week, and he is saying tons of new words (speech), weight bearing and opening his hand more (OT), and our regular PT just came back from maternity leave and said she can definitely see that Lincoln has made good improvement while she was gone.  Of course this is an update in a nut shell, there are many things we are still working on daily and things we have planned for the future, but I am always pleased to hear that Lincoln listens well and tries very hard when he is in therapy.  

With that being said, I took some time to ask our therapy office what they do for summer breaks?  I wanted to make sure if I cancelled some appointments that I would not lose my regular time slots as I have worked hard to make my schedule fluid to Lincoln's therapy and our life.  I was extremely pleased to find out that they take people's home lives into consideration and make accommodations for those who may travel more in the summer (very common in AZ for families to leave for the hot summer months).  While I do not plan to take Lincoln out of therapy all summer, I do plan to play with him and enjoy some fun travel to cooler weather, the ocean maybe, back home to see friends, or wherever we decide to go!  

I encourage you to talk to your therapy office if you need time off.  Our therapists are realistic about life and feel that breaks here and there can be great for kids.  The three beautiful ladies we work with weekly are great and understanding!  As long as we are doing our therapy homework while we are not there, Lincoln will continue to succeed. 

Motherhood

I thought this quote was very powerful and wanted to share it. I did not plan on my Lincoln having disabilities or a brain injury, but he truly has been the greatest joy in my life and is teaching me daily!  So I fell in love with this ~ and I hope if you are struggling or wondering what if about your child, that this gives you encouragement! 

"Motherhood is about raising and celebrating the child you have, not the child you thought you would have.  It is about understanding he is exactly the person he's supposed to be.  And, if you are lucky, he might be the teacher who turns you into the person you're supposed to be."

The Water Giver

Special Thank You to a Stranger

Thank you to the lady at Starbucks for asking about my son!  He is amazing, and I was able to share that with you in our brief interaction.  Thank you for apologizing for being nosy!  I didn't feel you were intruding on my morning, you were curious and instead of staring you approached me.

As a mom I struggled putting Lincoln in the brace from day one of getting it.  I struggled even more when the weather changed in Arizona from pants to shorts temperatures.  People stare, wonder what happened, if he hurt his ankle, etc ... And in true human nature, I didn't like the vanity of it all.  As a mom I want to protect him from scrutiny, from judgment, and from cruelty.

But today you asked me why he had it and I thank you!  Because today I answered you with confidence -- no shame -- I answered you with strength.  I have learned people really don't know what bracing is for, or that strokes happen to children, and today I learned even more that I am healing.  You were shocked over my explanation and you weren't awkward, you smiled and told me I must be doing a great job -- that as mothers we go to any length for our babies.  You are right, we do, but you were genuine and sometimes even the bravest mothers need reassurance.  So again I sincerely thank you.

Lincoln is a happy, active toddler.  Most people don't see his challenges and for that I am grateful.  In the process of being a mom, I have experienced things I don't wish on anyone, but I have learned about myself as well.  I believe my son will live a happy, successful life.  And I believe as humans we are stronger than we give ourselves credit for.  

We may be strangers to the people we meet daily at a coffee shop, in line at a store, at the gym or many places in life, but you never know when your interaction may positively affect someone.  My interaction was a single reminder that the world needs more love and kindness, and today I truly appreciated a stranger.  

Allergy Season

I never dreamed when I had my son I would be in and out of therapy, have a neurologist, nephrologist, pediatrician, urologist and orthopedist ... but I do, and all for my one and only precious son!  My ideas of what having a child was like were tainted and we now live a completely different, yet very happy life!  I often think to myself if I had a dollar ... for every appointment, comment, or (fill in the blank). I'm sure as a mom you have thought that as well a time or two. Today we added a pediatric allergy specialist!  My son is 2!  Who even knew that 2 year olds could have allergies?!?  He was showing too many symptoms though so I made the appointment.  Multiple skin tests later (no crying involved, my boy was a true champ), Lincoln is very allergic to dogs and cats, and has multiple seasonal tree allergies.  Oh the joys!  

On days like these I go back to my mantra as a mom that knowledge is power!  In today's society not everyone has resources, time, or education to face new things that come up.  As you read this it may seem that I am a crazy, overprotective mom who takes her son to everyone under the sun.  I assure you, I am not and if I could let one specialist go a year as he progressively does better, I would!  I am however a realistic mom. One who knows for fact that we have been dealt multiple medical issues, and still moves through each day letting my son be a child.  Yes, we have allergies to the trees, but will he still play in the park by my house each week?  Absolutely!  I have armed myself with a medical team for the times in our lives where I need them desperately, and other moments I make the best decision as a "mom" for his life.  I really do believe that knowledge is power, and that being proactive will get my son further in life and development than being reactive when something new strikes us!

We lost our beautiful Rottweiler this last year, and now I know I may not own another one while my Lincoln is growing up.  Those sweet moments between them make me sad that he may not have a dog of his own, but that is why life is a beautiful thing!  Maybe he will own a turtle or something instead that I never even dreamed about!  Do not put limits on your children, no matter what you face as they grow!  Today we have specific allergies, tomorrow we go back to wiping runny noses adding in nasal spray and playing as hard as we always do!  

Mindful Moments

This saying is displayed in my sons pediatric therapy office ... and I love reading it every time I take him.  For the record this is 3 days each week for 4 appointments ~ a perfect smile to my soul that good things never get old.

Each and every thing, 

each and every person, 

is totally unique.

When we compare them to something else, 

we no longer see them 

for what they are.