Monday, July 12, 2010

OT Visit

An OT (occupational therapist) met with us today. She looked at Kayla's movement specifically. There is some weakness in her right leg that we didn't notice. Specifically, she leads with her left and curls her toes on her right. However, this may be just who she is. I'm trying to remember, but Benji used to overlap his feet a bit when he was "walking" and curled his toes ---didn't hold him back from walking at 10 months and running at 10.5 so I'm being optimistic about that.

To work on her right weaknesses, we need to hold her more around her hips, work her thumb and fingers, and constrain her left arm sometimes while playing. Rattles on feet and hands are good too---so I have to remember to dig those out of her play basket at home. They said the more she grabs her toes the more strength she'll have in her core. She'll be more thoroughly evaluated through Early Intervention, but the possibility of her having outpatient care until that is in place is available if we want it. You know us...always want the best...so we said absolutely we aren't going to wait a month to start therapy. The OT said she really is doing well and time will show what she needs. We'll see how and when we can get started once we know a real discharge date. I guess everything hinges on the meeting tonight.

Benji seemed much happier this morning when I (jenn) went home to see him. We spent a lot of time yesterday with him (jenn in the am, andy for mid-morning through nap, jenn for betime). Today he told me to leave. Okay.... guess he's happy with grandma, aunt amy, auden, patrick, and everyone else who is entertaining him! He also is loving his new book and puzzle (thanks Deborah!). In Benji's words "it's so awesome!"

A big shout out to all my mommy friends who dropped hand pumps off. I have 4 different ones to try! Wow, thanks guys. The nursing is going better...I have more milk, so again thanks to everyone who sent suggestions about the herbs, teas, amount of pumping, etc. As andy mentioned, many of her tubes came off today, so that was a pleasant surprise walking in and seeing that when I returned from being with Benji.

We are grateful.

3 comments:

Kim said...

I can't believe you remember Benji's mile stones so well. I'm clueless when asked now. I'm thrilled to hear that you can start the OT at home so soon. That's wonderful. It sounds like Kayla's already working so hard, you go little girl. She obviously has the strength and spirit to make it through this ordeal. she is certainly meant for great things.

Gracie said...

It is good that Benji is doing so well through all this. Also good to hear that OT is starting soon for her as well and that she is doing so well that she moving. Very exciting. Still praying!

Unknown said...

HI Jenn, Glad to hear the good reports but we will continue to pray and believe for full restoration.

I sent you an email about pumps, hope you got it.