Today with have been back to St Louis Children's hospital for our year post operation appointment. It felt like we'd never left, just didn't have the same nervous anticipation like last year - well we did a bit waiting to see what Dr Park thought!!
First of all we had a therapy assessment with Beth, same format as last year but this time to see the changes. There was lots of 'Libby couldn't do that last year' and in true Libby style she performed!! As I said in my last blog, Libby has been walking with one hand and one stick - well today Libby just walked with one stick and she didn't want me anywhere near her as I was embarrassing her!! Just shows what she is capable of when she puts her mind to it. The therapy assessment was really pleasing, lots of progress, lots of advice but all very positive. Libby does have quite bad rolling in feet when she is bare footed, unfortunately this will always be there and the future doesn't look bright for flip flops! However, it's not the end of the world it just means she will always need some kind of insert in her shoes to help - small price to pay in the scheme of things.
We then saw Dr Park, Libby said she was really nervous but again really showed what she is capable of. Dr Park was pleased with her progress, said the spasticity has completely gone and will never return. He made some good suggestions for strengthening her legs and stressed the importance of walking, walking, walking. As we knew, it's all about endurance with Libby.
The great news is that he thinks Libby should be able to get rid of her walking frame in six months (how wonderful will that be), he has suggested that we try using crutches as it will give her more support whilst she is still building her muscles in her legs and it'll also give her a better walking style. She is to carry on with the one stick aslo. Dr Park sees no reason why she won't be able to cope on crutches in secondary school - WOW!
I think it was a real boost for Libby today, she walked around the hospital so confidently with one stick, I think she's been having us on these last few months and is obviously capable of so much more! We then got back to the hotel room and she stood up and walked from the lounge to her bedroom, no sticks, no help - completely by herself - FANTASTIC, just what we have been waiting for - silly girl, now she know's I won't let up and she'll have to do it all the time!!
We have two more days of therapy and a whole future ahead of us - Thank you all. xxxx