Well, they're on. Day 1. Just in time for 100+ degree weather. Thank you to all who sent us well wishes and kept Oia in your thoughts today. She was an absolute trooper for all of the casting process; never got upset once even though she had to lay on her tummy the entire time. Dr. R said Oia was more tolerant than even his older patients.
Both feet seem to be casted at the desired 90 degrees; left foot may even be a couple of degrees more than that. It's hard to tell exactly. No doubt that both legs are getting a good, continuous stretch.
And as I suspected, she can not walk in these (yet, I hope), even with the canvas sandals that were given to us to wear over them. It seems that right now it's very uncomfortable for her to stand and bear weight throughout her legs with her feet in this position. Today it was just too much. I can only imagine how weird and confusing this must be for her. Last night before I put her down at bedtime, we were sitting on the couch reading a few books. When we were done, I rubbed her legs and told her that in morning we were going to see Dr. R who would be putting casts on her legs. She listened, glanced at her feet, and then sighed. Bless her heart. She doesn't completely understand what's going on. I'm not sure of any child her age who would understand all of this but so far she's handling it very well.
Tomorrow is a new day. We'll try to walk some but we'll take it slow. I'm not going to force her until she feels comfortable. I know our girl will give it a go when she's willing and feeling more confident. Regardless of whether or not she is walking or just sitting, her muscles are getting the stretch they need and that's the main focus of these two weeks.
What a trooper you are, Oia!
ReplyDeleteTake your time sweet girl :)
I thought about you guys today. At least she got pink casts, I hope that cheers her some? Could we send a care package? My four year old got super excited by some stick on earrings, would they make Oia feel grown up and fancy? Please let us know if there is anything we can do from out here in bloggy land.
ReplyDeleteI thought of her often yesterday. Praying that she gets the hang of walking in them soon.
ReplyDeleteI'm hoping this two weeks goes quickly for you guys. And I love the pink. Hang in there!
ReplyDeleteShe's a very patient girl! I hope the time flies by and they're off before you know it. I think Katie would flip out and I'd end up sawing them off myself. :)
ReplyDeleteMo, I know it is so hard to witness. Little Oia is such a trooper she is going to make the best of it! Her sweet little toes poking out are soo cute. You totally have to paint them!
ReplyDeleteDr. R's right. I wouldn't tolerate such a thing & I'm a LOT older. So good for Oia, and I won't let her in on any of my tricks (unless you say I can). Don't be suprised if she doesn't use the cast shoes. Some of them are horrible & impossible to walk in.
ReplyDeleteI know I just left a comment but I wanted to let you know that I've given you the "A Blog With Substance" award. For a copy of the award etc read my post http://standup8.wordpress.com/2010/07/08/i-have-substance/
ReplyDeleteI think we're in for those too...after surgery. Or before, who knows what we'll try first. If Oia gets a fantastic stretch after this, maybe I'll ask Dr. A if E should try it.
ReplyDeleteAnd I second the care package--E loves to give prezzies! Give us some ideas!
She's a tough cookie. I hope these two weeks go by quickly and she gets the results she needs. Hang in there...
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