Scott and Bridget met in 1993 and were married in 2001. In September of 2003 we welcomed our first miracle, James. 16 months later we brought home our second miracle, Annie. And in October of 2006 our family was complete with miracle #3, Gracie. Rett syndrome entered our lives when Annie was diagnosed on May 19, 2006. This is the life of the MacDonald family as we juggle 3 small children and battle Rett Syndrome until Gods perfect time when we are cured.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Day 2 and still going strong!

Annie had day 2 of intensive therapy today and she's still giving it her all! At the begining her therapist warms her up with heated blankets to get her muscles warm and flexible, then she gets the "spa treatment" which is an oil rub to further warm up the muscles. As you can see it's quite relaxing, so relaxing Miss Annie almost fell asleep right then.
After the spa treatment comes the stretching - this was hard today after yesterdays workout Annie's muscles were quite sore and tight. No pictures of that today, I was just trying to keep Annie calm. Then comes the exercise. Her therapist uses weights and ropes and pullies to isolate different muscle groups to strengthen them. Most of the exercises concentrate on the legs (because our goal is to walk). We are also paying special attention to Annie's right side because it is much weaker than her left so exercises on that side are especially important and much more difficult.
After isolating the muscles and working them out for awhile Annie gets suited up and starts to work on standing, squating, weight shifting, bending her knees and transitioning from kneel to stand - all the things necessary for walking - we take so much for granted!Next up is the treadmill! They save the best for last, this is by far Annie's favorite, as you can see here!
So that's day 2! Please continue to keep Annie in your prayers as she progresses to walking independantly!

2 comments:

  1. WOW - Annie you DESERVE the spa treatment girl - they are working you SO hard. You are such an inspiration little girl - can't wait to see you walking all over the place!!

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