It's Christmas today...well, what's left of it anyway, and I couldn't have asked for a better present than having my whole family with me for Christmas. Just a few short months ago, we were contemplating have a very sad Christmas. Whilst I have to admit, it was not one of our most festive, it has certainly been our best. I have spent the entire day sorting out music for MJ, listening to her new cd, playing with Cortni's bratz dolls, play dough and painting her new piggy bank, discussing Ashley's make-up collection and clothing, and finally watching Dave's golf dvd. A more beautiful day could not be had. (In case you are wondering, I also had some me time and fitted my new car stero which I am very gratgeful to Santa Clause for)
I am now looking forward to the New Year when ,once again, I can dance with McAyla, like I have done every year since she was little. I am still very reflective over what has happend, and I still get tears in my eyes when I think about how much we could have lost, but I am more than grateful that my baby is still with me.
The New Year will bring different challenges, and we will take them in our stride. MJ will have to see a psychologist who will help teach us all about MJ's injury and the effects that it is having on her emotions. She is also due to have her first assessment with the neuro consultant on the 16th. That will be a shock for him, as the last time he saw Mic, she was hardly talking, still in pads and had only just got into her first wheelchair.
So, apart from Cortni having tonsilitis...again (poor little mite), all looks good for a healthy, happy, prosperous New Year.
As things are really hectic for me these days, and I don't get much chance to update the blog too often, may I take this time to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy New Year.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Monday, December 15, 2008
MJ the celebrity
Well, it's been a fast changing and tough few weeks since my last entry.
Everywhere we go, people keep comming up to us, just to talk to Mic and tell us how inspiring they find my little girl. It's like living with a celebrity. Sometimes, MJ seems a little scared, but other times, she quite seems to like her celebrity status. When we go out in the street, and MJ walks around, neighbours come out just to watch her walk about the neighbourhood, just like she used to.
Exactly 3 months after her accident, I had to face one of the toughest decisions. I let MJ go out without me. I let her hang out with her friends. I was so scared and kept looking out the window to watch where she was. It was great to see my baby girl doing things she used to, 'normal' things. The patience and compassion of her mates astounds me.
Mostly, MJ is bored and doesn't have a very good attention span, but she is so determined.
We went Christmas shopping yesterday (Sunday) and she asked me not to take her wheelchair. She walked slowly around town and bless her little soul, she was in pain at the end of it all. We were in town for 3 hours and although we took breaks, I think it was too much for her little legs.
MJ still gets thought processes mixed up. Instead of asking for a drink, she asks what type of drink. Then, she thinks about it and gets the question right. Odd.
Other than that, physio seems to be going well as does the schooling. Now we look forward to Christmas. Merry Christmas!
Everywhere we go, people keep comming up to us, just to talk to Mic and tell us how inspiring they find my little girl. It's like living with a celebrity. Sometimes, MJ seems a little scared, but other times, she quite seems to like her celebrity status. When we go out in the street, and MJ walks around, neighbours come out just to watch her walk about the neighbourhood, just like she used to.
Exactly 3 months after her accident, I had to face one of the toughest decisions. I let MJ go out without me. I let her hang out with her friends. I was so scared and kept looking out the window to watch where she was. It was great to see my baby girl doing things she used to, 'normal' things. The patience and compassion of her mates astounds me.
Mostly, MJ is bored and doesn't have a very good attention span, but she is so determined.
We went Christmas shopping yesterday (Sunday) and she asked me not to take her wheelchair. She walked slowly around town and bless her little soul, she was in pain at the end of it all. We were in town for 3 hours and although we took breaks, I think it was too much for her little legs.
MJ still gets thought processes mixed up. Instead of asking for a drink, she asks what type of drink. Then, she thinks about it and gets the question right. Odd.
Other than that, physio seems to be going well as does the schooling. Now we look forward to Christmas. Merry Christmas!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
MJ walks on her own
Well, so many changes have taken place since my last entry. Two weeks ago, McAyla was given a K-frame. It's kinda like a zimmer frame, except it goes behind and around her bottom. Then last Thursday, she took her first steps....unaided. I was so shocked. Today she went to physio and she's come home with crutches! What the heck!!!!
Fred (the splint) has also gone. Now MJ has a different splint and she's been given one to wear at night. The new splints are more flexible whilst maintaining the support.
MJ is also doing very well with her schooling. She managed to do 100 sums in 20 minutes on Wednesday last week. For MJ, this is pretty good. The teacher told us today that MJ's recall is coming back and she believes MJ will cope when she returns to school.
Fred (the splint) has also gone. Now MJ has a different splint and she's been given one to wear at night. The new splints are more flexible whilst maintaining the support.
MJ is also doing very well with her schooling. She managed to do 100 sums in 20 minutes on Wednesday last week. For MJ, this is pretty good. The teacher told us today that MJ's recall is coming back and she believes MJ will cope when she returns to school.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
MJ is upstairs
Well, what a week of excitement for us!
Mic received a k-frame walker on Wednesday to assist her with her walking. She has to be supervised with it at all times, and she is only allowed in it for a maximum of 5 minutes and then has to have a long break. The frame goes behind her and she pulls it along. The only thing that seriously hinders her now is the shoes. I tried so hard to get my baby some shoes that will fit over the splint, but I have yet to be successful. She now has to wear 2 different types of shoes. Her right foot has a size 4 and the other is currently a size 9 which is too big since the splint got shaved down. All I wanted was 2 pairs of shoes, one in a size 4 and the other in whatever size fits over the splint. You'd think this would be a simple task.....yeah right! I tried every shoe shop in Worcester and Brantano's in Malvern and still zip, zero, nada!!!!
Today Mic learned to negotiate the stairs on her bottom. Someone has to stay in front of her when she goes up or down the stairs, as there is a risk factor that she might slip etc. The whole day Mic has been itching to get up the stairs and see her room. Right now, she is about 10 feet away from me and I am loving every second. I can hear if she calls for me instead of sneaking downstairs to see if she is okay.
MJ also had a bath upstairs in the bathroom. She revelled in the fact that she could lay down in the bath and have the water warm her whole body instead of just a section at a time. Getting out was seriously tricky though. Whilst I have side rails for MJ to hold onto, getting her legs over the edge of the bath was the tricky bit. Again, I have to stay with her at all times.
When I took Cortni to school today, I noticed that the council have obviously headed our calls and had somebody doing a traffic survey. Maybe, just maybe we might win this battle. Don't forget to sign MJ's petition on her website and help the cause!
Mic received a k-frame walker on Wednesday to assist her with her walking. She has to be supervised with it at all times, and she is only allowed in it for a maximum of 5 minutes and then has to have a long break. The frame goes behind her and she pulls it along. The only thing that seriously hinders her now is the shoes. I tried so hard to get my baby some shoes that will fit over the splint, but I have yet to be successful. She now has to wear 2 different types of shoes. Her right foot has a size 4 and the other is currently a size 9 which is too big since the splint got shaved down. All I wanted was 2 pairs of shoes, one in a size 4 and the other in whatever size fits over the splint. You'd think this would be a simple task.....yeah right! I tried every shoe shop in Worcester and Brantano's in Malvern and still zip, zero, nada!!!!
Today Mic learned to negotiate the stairs on her bottom. Someone has to stay in front of her when she goes up or down the stairs, as there is a risk factor that she might slip etc. The whole day Mic has been itching to get up the stairs and see her room. Right now, she is about 10 feet away from me and I am loving every second. I can hear if she calls for me instead of sneaking downstairs to see if she is okay.
MJ also had a bath upstairs in the bathroom. She revelled in the fact that she could lay down in the bath and have the water warm her whole body instead of just a section at a time. Getting out was seriously tricky though. Whilst I have side rails for MJ to hold onto, getting her legs over the edge of the bath was the tricky bit. Again, I have to stay with her at all times.
When I took Cortni to school today, I noticed that the council have obviously headed our calls and had somebody doing a traffic survey. Maybe, just maybe we might win this battle. Don't forget to sign MJ's petition on her website and help the cause!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
School
We are now at the start of week 10 and I look at my beautiful little girl and love wrapping my arms around her and feeling her arms wrap around me as we give each other the biggest hugs. Something I thought I'd never get to do again. We even sway to music as we have always done at Christmas and new year. So, at least that will remain the same this year.
When I look at her now, I don't compare her to how she was before her accident, but I marvel at how much she has improved since her stay in ICU. I look at Mic and I don't see her chair as a problem, I just see it as part of Mic.
I love to watch her face as it lights up when her friends come to visit. She becomes so excited and it helps so much with her speech and her memory. I guess it gives MJ some sense of normality. She feels left out in a way that she has not yet made it to Nunnery, but she is on her way.
MJ's schooling starts on Tuesday. She will have one and a half hours of schooling three times a week. She will cover a range of subjects and the teacher is going to help Mic bridge the gap that has been created as a result of the accident. She will help MJ get her word association skills and number bonds back as well as trying to cover year 7 carriculum. So MJ's brain is finally going to get as much exercise as her body.....yeah!!!
When I look at her now, I don't compare her to how she was before her accident, but I marvel at how much she has improved since her stay in ICU. I look at Mic and I don't see her chair as a problem, I just see it as part of Mic.
I love to watch her face as it lights up when her friends come to visit. She becomes so excited and it helps so much with her speech and her memory. I guess it gives MJ some sense of normality. She feels left out in a way that she has not yet made it to Nunnery, but she is on her way.
MJ's schooling starts on Tuesday. She will have one and a half hours of schooling three times a week. She will cover a range of subjects and the teacher is going to help Mic bridge the gap that has been created as a result of the accident. She will help MJ get her word association skills and number bonds back as well as trying to cover year 7 carriculum. So MJ's brain is finally going to get as much exercise as her body.....yeah!!!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
catch up photo's
Having a look through these photo's, I can't believe how far MJ has come. Just a few short weeks ago there was the possibility of her never being able to do the things she has so miraculously achieved. She continues to astound everybody with the amount of progress she makes.
She has an eye test at the hospital tomorrow and is getting quite anxious about it. I think she is nervous that she might have to stay there. I keep telling her not to worry and have made plans with her for after the test. She's still not convinced.
Physio has been going really well. As you can see from the pics, she is able to kneel and throw and catch a ball. She can't do it for long, but she is able to do it. Short term goals for this month, MJ is to kneel for longer, crawl on the floor, and stand to brush her teeth.
She was on BBC Hereford and Worcester radio on Monday, and she commented that she thinks she may have dropped money and bent to pick it up when the car hit her..... As for the rumours that MJ was playing chicken, all I can say to the person who started this rumour...You were not there, just as I was not there, so don't make assumptions about something you know so little about. If you read my very first entry, you will see quite clearly that I in no way, shape or form ever admitted to knowing what happend that day, I have never blamed anybody, so what gives you the right???? What I do know is that my child is and always has been safety conscious. She was crossing busy roads, by herself, long before many of her friends and she started to walk home, by herself, long before any of her friends.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
The Beacon Centre
Today MJ went for her first outpatient physio session. It was great. No tears! MJ tried really hard with weight transferring, log rolling on the mat and kneeling. I was most impressed by the kneeling, as the last time I saw Mic go on her knees, she cried bucket loads and couldn't handle the pressure on her knee for too long. Today, she was completely different. She managed to stay on her knees and balance for some time. She stood by herself too. She even managed to flex her toes on her left foot. The movement isn't huge, but at least there is movement. I bet anything that before next week, Mic's big toe will be flexing back quite a bit.
She really enjoys the physio sessions and sees a lot of the activities as games. It helps when she's bored and wants to wind her sisters up, so she gets them to participate.
Hopefully the teachers will be in contact soon so that MJ's mind can get the work out it requires so all of her heals at a rapid pace.
She really enjoys the physio sessions and sees a lot of the activities as games. It helps when she's bored and wants to wind her sisters up, so she gets them to participate.
Hopefully the teachers will be in contact soon so that MJ's mind can get the work out it requires so all of her heals at a rapid pace.
Feels like Christmas
Week 8 since the accident: Just over 6 weeks ago, if someone told me then that MJ would be home again with me, I would not have believed it. I was dreading Christmas. Now, it feels like Christmas everyday. I can't stop smiling.
MJ had her first session of physio this afternoon since she has been home. The new exercises she has been taught are really fun. She was shown an exercise to stretch her right arm, which entails her touching her nose and then touching my finger. She laughs so much as she streches to reach my finger as I move it about, and yes, she still tries to cheat as she becomes more excited. The mischieviousness in her has certainly not been lost.
Tomorrow we have to go to the community centre to for a session there. MJ just wants to walk and get out of her chair and splint. We've told her she needs to be patient and that it will happen when it happens. It's good that she has the determination though.
School should begin again in earnest for MJ next week, so no more slacking. It will be good when she gets her word bank back. Perhaps she will learn to say more than yeah/stuff/no when asked a question. Her 'favouite' saying right now is: my nail broke!
For those that want to visit MJ, please get my number from Di/Mandy/or anybody else that has it and I will pencil you in.
Well, as it is past 1am, I think I should try get some sleep. P.S. Thanks Katie and Aunt Cath for coming to the rescue yet again. Love you guys.
MJ had her first session of physio this afternoon since she has been home. The new exercises she has been taught are really fun. She was shown an exercise to stretch her right arm, which entails her touching her nose and then touching my finger. She laughs so much as she streches to reach my finger as I move it about, and yes, she still tries to cheat as she becomes more excited. The mischieviousness in her has certainly not been lost.
Tomorrow we have to go to the community centre to for a session there. MJ just wants to walk and get out of her chair and splint. We've told her she needs to be patient and that it will happen when it happens. It's good that she has the determination though.
School should begin again in earnest for MJ next week, so no more slacking. It will be good when she gets her word bank back. Perhaps she will learn to say more than yeah/stuff/no when asked a question. Her 'favouite' saying right now is: my nail broke!
For those that want to visit MJ, please get my number from Di/Mandy/or anybody else that has it and I will pencil you in.
Well, as it is past 1am, I think I should try get some sleep. P.S. Thanks Katie and Aunt Cath for coming to the rescue yet again. Love you guys.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
McAyla is home!
Today would have been the start of Mic's 8th week of being in hospital, but instead she is home with us!
It's so unbelievable to have her home. The whole week she has been really anxious about coming home, and now that she is here, I don't think she can quite believe it herself. She keeps waking up in the night and saying how she wants to go home, and I keep reassuring her that she is home.
She also worries continuously about her medicines running out and also when she can have the hospital bracelet off. She is still experiencing a lack of short term memory, so if you visit her and she goes over the same things, don't get annoyed, it's just her brain trying to get the messages across.
Getting MJ in and out of the car with the wheelchair is a bit of a mission, but she handles it all really well. The process we go through is: we push her to the front door on the commode (portable loo), she then has to stand up, step off the stair at the front of the house, turn, sit in her chair, push her to the car, stand, turn and place her bottom on the seat. Voila she is in the car. We are also having to assess places we can go with her, for disabled access, long before we even get there.
All things said and done, I'm just really glad she's home. I'll go through all the hardship of transferring, as long as she is home with me.
During this last week MJ has learned to stand for a lot longer, she has managed to transfer her weight from one leg to another, physio had her in the parallel bars, so she could learn to walk. MJ walked the length of the bed whilst one of the physio's held her waist and the other held her right arm.
Mic is a changing picture every week. All the medical staff have been so amazed by her progress. I took Mic back to ICU earlier in the week to give them a thank you card. Very emotional for me to go back in there. None of the nurses that looked after Mic were on duty at the time. There was a docotor that remembered us though, although he couldn't quite remember why. When we left, he obviously had a look at the records and soon after came up to the ward. He spoke with the nurses and then came to chat with me. He told me that he couldn't believe the progress Mic has made thus far. He admitted that they never thought Mic would ever wake up fully. There were 2 other cases of kids being knocked over by cars when MJ was in ICU. The doc told me that whilst each of the kids were doing different things, MJ was by far the least responsive. He also said that he was going back to ICU to tell everyone what wonderful progress Mic has made. (I gave them the details of the website so they can keep up to date with her progress.)
I'm going to rush downstairs now to see if my little princess is awake and make her some pancakes for breakfast.
It's so unbelievable to have her home. The whole week she has been really anxious about coming home, and now that she is here, I don't think she can quite believe it herself. She keeps waking up in the night and saying how she wants to go home, and I keep reassuring her that she is home.
She also worries continuously about her medicines running out and also when she can have the hospital bracelet off. She is still experiencing a lack of short term memory, so if you visit her and she goes over the same things, don't get annoyed, it's just her brain trying to get the messages across.
Getting MJ in and out of the car with the wheelchair is a bit of a mission, but she handles it all really well. The process we go through is: we push her to the front door on the commode (portable loo), she then has to stand up, step off the stair at the front of the house, turn, sit in her chair, push her to the car, stand, turn and place her bottom on the seat. Voila she is in the car. We are also having to assess places we can go with her, for disabled access, long before we even get there.
All things said and done, I'm just really glad she's home. I'll go through all the hardship of transferring, as long as she is home with me.
During this last week MJ has learned to stand for a lot longer, she has managed to transfer her weight from one leg to another, physio had her in the parallel bars, so she could learn to walk. MJ walked the length of the bed whilst one of the physio's held her waist and the other held her right arm.
Mic is a changing picture every week. All the medical staff have been so amazed by her progress. I took Mic back to ICU earlier in the week to give them a thank you card. Very emotional for me to go back in there. None of the nurses that looked after Mic were on duty at the time. There was a docotor that remembered us though, although he couldn't quite remember why. When we left, he obviously had a look at the records and soon after came up to the ward. He spoke with the nurses and then came to chat with me. He told me that he couldn't believe the progress Mic has made thus far. He admitted that they never thought Mic would ever wake up fully. There were 2 other cases of kids being knocked over by cars when MJ was in ICU. The doc told me that whilst each of the kids were doing different things, MJ was by far the least responsive. He also said that he was going back to ICU to tell everyone what wonderful progress Mic has made. (I gave them the details of the website so they can keep up to date with her progress.)
I'm going to rush downstairs now to see if my little princess is awake and make her some pancakes for breakfast.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
A hectic week of progress
Wow! We are at the 7 week mark! It feels like a life time.
Mic has progressed so much, so quickly, myself and staff are amazed.
On Monday MJ wasn't able to colour in a picture, she was just barely able to keep the pen on the page and she kept colouring the same spot. By Thursday, MJ was able to colour half a picture. MJ was also assessed for her wheelchair and by Friday, OT had to phone the wheelchair service and have them change the order.
On Wednesday, MJ tried kneeling and sitting with her legs crossed, but her left knee is still quite swollen, so it pulls when stretched. She persists though and tries to get through it as best she can. I have to say that the cheating doesn't stop with thumb wars. If MJ can cheat in the physio session to achieve the goal, believe me, she gives it a go. The physio's don't let her get away with it all the time though.
MJ has also received the machine that can talk for her. She types : I love u, quite a bit. I tell her to tell me rather than type it out. She has hardly used the machine this weekend though. The nurses are also encouraging her to speak more rather than use the machine.
MJ is able to pull herself up to a sitting position which she couldn't do last week. She is also able to assist with transferring herself from the wheelchair to the bed. Her legs are not strong in the least, but at least she is able to pick them up and with loads of support she can take two steps. She is not yet able to stand, I might add, but at least she is trying.
She is also talking louder now. She seems to be scared when she hears her own voice, but when she is relaxed and laughs with friends, nurses and family, she forgets and becomes louder as she laughs.
MJ also had her first trip outside of the hospital on Saturday, with me (Mum) and Cortni. It was very cold and MJ did not enjoy the trip. I think she became aware of people staring and also of the fact that she couldn't see me as I was pushing her. That in itself must have frustrated her as I think she knew she should be walking. I don't think she liked the crowds and noise either.
I learned that the wheelchair is a lot heavier than I imagined, and I also became aware that I couldn't navigate the streets as if pushing a buggy/pram. I kept having to look where she could get off/on the pavement and how bumpy the pavements and streets are. I also became aware that some shop aisles are just not wide enough for a wheelchair, and dodging people is not as easy as if pushing a baby in a pushchair.
Today at the hospital, MJ was learning to push herself in the chair. Obviously her right hand is not quite strong enough, so she might not manage to get to the right place, and she doesn't have the strength to push herself too far, but the girl has guts and she tries.
Thanks again to the friends who have visited and for the gifts they have given to McAyla and Cortni. Thank you Mandy, Keith, Kim and Ash for your special gift, it is very much appreciated.
I have loads of photo's to post, but will do a catch up on those another day.
Mic has progressed so much, so quickly, myself and staff are amazed.
On Monday MJ wasn't able to colour in a picture, she was just barely able to keep the pen on the page and she kept colouring the same spot. By Thursday, MJ was able to colour half a picture. MJ was also assessed for her wheelchair and by Friday, OT had to phone the wheelchair service and have them change the order.
On Wednesday, MJ tried kneeling and sitting with her legs crossed, but her left knee is still quite swollen, so it pulls when stretched. She persists though and tries to get through it as best she can. I have to say that the cheating doesn't stop with thumb wars. If MJ can cheat in the physio session to achieve the goal, believe me, she gives it a go. The physio's don't let her get away with it all the time though.
MJ has also received the machine that can talk for her. She types : I love u, quite a bit. I tell her to tell me rather than type it out. She has hardly used the machine this weekend though. The nurses are also encouraging her to speak more rather than use the machine.
MJ is able to pull herself up to a sitting position which she couldn't do last week. She is also able to assist with transferring herself from the wheelchair to the bed. Her legs are not strong in the least, but at least she is able to pick them up and with loads of support she can take two steps. She is not yet able to stand, I might add, but at least she is trying.
She is also talking louder now. She seems to be scared when she hears her own voice, but when she is relaxed and laughs with friends, nurses and family, she forgets and becomes louder as she laughs.
MJ also had her first trip outside of the hospital on Saturday, with me (Mum) and Cortni. It was very cold and MJ did not enjoy the trip. I think she became aware of people staring and also of the fact that she couldn't see me as I was pushing her. That in itself must have frustrated her as I think she knew she should be walking. I don't think she liked the crowds and noise either.
I learned that the wheelchair is a lot heavier than I imagined, and I also became aware that I couldn't navigate the streets as if pushing a buggy/pram. I kept having to look where she could get off/on the pavement and how bumpy the pavements and streets are. I also became aware that some shop aisles are just not wide enough for a wheelchair, and dodging people is not as easy as if pushing a baby in a pushchair.
Today at the hospital, MJ was learning to push herself in the chair. Obviously her right hand is not quite strong enough, so she might not manage to get to the right place, and she doesn't have the strength to push herself too far, but the girl has guts and she tries.
Thanks again to the friends who have visited and for the gifts they have given to McAyla and Cortni. Thank you Mandy, Keith, Kim and Ash for your special gift, it is very much appreciated.
I have loads of photo's to post, but will do a catch up on those another day.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
MJ said "Mum"
Monday, October 20: It's been 6 weeks that I haven't heard MJ's voice. Today, when the teacher was giving Mic a lesson, she taught Mic to say mum. She took MJ's hand and placed it against her throat so that MJ could feel the movement in the teacher's throat. MJ then placed her hand against her own throat and said "Mum"!
We all started to cry. MJ was crying probably at the shock of hearing her voice and also because it must hurt due to the pipes and things being down her throat. I was crying because I was so proud with the effort she puts into things, and the fact that I got to hear her little voice all over again. The teacher was crying because she got so wrapped up in the moment and I think it's an absolute joy for her when the kids achieve something for the first time.
Mic went on to say dad and then dab. Later on, we were playing catch with the ball (yes, in the hospital) and I bent down to fetch the ball and then I heard her call me. I looked up and she then mouthed "I love you". For 6 very long weeks I have wondered if my child would ever say these words to me again and today she filled my heart with joy.
MJ is now pulling herself forward on her wheelchair and supporting her upper body that little bit more. Whilst playing games with Mic, I tried to get her to stretch her right arm as far as possible. It hurts, but I tell her that just a short time back she wasn't even able to get it as far as it is now. She even lifts her left leg a bit now, which she wasn't able to do last week.
Another new achievement is MJ plays on her DS. She doesn't always understand the game unless she is shown, but it'll come back in time. She is also able to use her knife and fork although it is a bit of a struggle.
Hopefully, if Mic gets to drink at least a litre of fluid a day, they will take the tube out of her nose.
We all started to cry. MJ was crying probably at the shock of hearing her voice and also because it must hurt due to the pipes and things being down her throat. I was crying because I was so proud with the effort she puts into things, and the fact that I got to hear her little voice all over again. The teacher was crying because she got so wrapped up in the moment and I think it's an absolute joy for her when the kids achieve something for the first time.
Mic went on to say dad and then dab. Later on, we were playing catch with the ball (yes, in the hospital) and I bent down to fetch the ball and then I heard her call me. I looked up and she then mouthed "I love you". For 6 very long weeks I have wondered if my child would ever say these words to me again and today she filled my heart with joy.
MJ is now pulling herself forward on her wheelchair and supporting her upper body that little bit more. Whilst playing games with Mic, I tried to get her to stretch her right arm as far as possible. It hurts, but I tell her that just a short time back she wasn't even able to get it as far as it is now. She even lifts her left leg a bit now, which she wasn't able to do last week.
Another new achievement is MJ plays on her DS. She doesn't always understand the game unless she is shown, but it'll come back in time. She is also able to use her knife and fork although it is a bit of a struggle.
Hopefully, if Mic gets to drink at least a litre of fluid a day, they will take the tube out of her nose.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
MJ mouths words
Saturday, October 18th: what an exciting day! I got to the hospital really early this morning and MJ was crying. I cuddled her and settled her down. I watched her dress herself and was so completely amazed that she copes so well with such little use and mobility in her right hand an arm. She brushed her hair and her teeth and all of this was done with her left hand. Considering she has never been left handed, I find this amazing.
I asked if she was okay by giving a thumbs up. She copied me! I was stunned at this new development. I continued to ask questions and she either gave a thumbs up or a thumbs down. The next thing I new, I asked her a question and she mouthed the word no. Then she started to cry. I think the tears was because she realised that there was no sound. I was so excited I jumped up and down and called the nurses over. They were elated too.
Mic's intake of food is also increasing. She still doesn't like corn and peas. Anything lumpy or hard she also has a tendency to spit it out. It can be disturbing to watch, but I guess in her mouth they feel huge and she can feel the skin on the beans, peas, tomatoes etc., that normally we don't.
All in all, I think she is making tremendous progress. She makes me immensely proud to be her mother. Everyday she does something new. Everyday she manages to smile, even when she is scared or hurting. I am humbled by the strength and resilience McAyla has shown over the last 6 weeks.
I need to say thanks to Sharon and Niall who wrote to CFC about McAyla. Thanks to Chelsea for the little gift they have sent to my little girl. The fact that the team addressed it directly to McAyla really means a lot. I know McAyla will treasure the items forever.
I asked if she was okay by giving a thumbs up. She copied me! I was stunned at this new development. I continued to ask questions and she either gave a thumbs up or a thumbs down. The next thing I new, I asked her a question and she mouthed the word no. Then she started to cry. I think the tears was because she realised that there was no sound. I was so excited I jumped up and down and called the nurses over. They were elated too.
Mic's intake of food is also increasing. She still doesn't like corn and peas. Anything lumpy or hard she also has a tendency to spit it out. It can be disturbing to watch, but I guess in her mouth they feel huge and she can feel the skin on the beans, peas, tomatoes etc., that normally we don't.
All in all, I think she is making tremendous progress. She makes me immensely proud to be her mother. Everyday she does something new. Everyday she manages to smile, even when she is scared or hurting. I am humbled by the strength and resilience McAyla has shown over the last 6 weeks.
I need to say thanks to Sharon and Niall who wrote to CFC about McAyla. Thanks to Chelsea for the little gift they have sent to my little girl. The fact that the team addressed it directly to McAyla really means a lot. I know McAyla will treasure the items forever.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
MJ stood today
Wednesday, October 15th: While MJ was in the gym today, sitting and working at stretching, she started to cry. She was in a lot of pain. I had tears in my eyes for two reasons. Firstly I didn't want MJ to hurt and I wished I could take away the pain for her. Secondly I felt so proud that she was doing so exceptionally well and fighting through the pain. In a strange way I was happy to see her tears as it means it's another emotion she shows, another way of communicating with us.
While she was crying, I hugged her and she hugged me back and kissed my head. She kept kissing me as if to say: "I love you mum". I kept telling her I was so proud of her achievements so far and I told her how much I love her.
The physio's got her to stand without the tilt bed. Her legs are very weak and she started to cry again. Through all the pain, MJ perservered and stood again and again and again, each time resting for only a few moments. (Check out the photo on the website of MJ standing.)
By the time we got her back to the ward, she was parched. She finished off a whole cup of thickend water. She cried again and I asked if she could have some pain relief. After the paracetemol was administered, MJ settled down and started to smile and laugh again. As a reward for all her hard work, I bought her a milkshake. She loved it and again finished a whole cup.
For lunch MJ had cauliflower and mash with lamb mince....all of which she would never have eaten before the accident. She finished almost all of it.
MJ also had a computer session with the teacher today. I guess the teacher has figured out it's best to go in the morning when MJ can't fake sleep...lol! The teacher told us MJ coped really well with the activity and was operating the mouse. I think MJ just wants to access MSN so she can chat with all of her mates.
Monday, October 13, 2008
MJ falls out of bed
Monday, October 13th: I've had a really emotionally draining weekend. Mic fell out of bed - or as the nurses tell it - she got out of bed. Considering she has no upper body strength to hold herself up to sit, I find this really frustrating. Anyway, she hasn't hurt herself too much as far as everyone can tell. The doctor did look her over and there does not appear to be any additional bruising.
On Sunday, we were outside of the hospital when the air ambulance landed. I knew exactly how that mum was feeling. I knew what would be going on inside A&E and it brought tears to my eyes. Memories I have buried just came flooding back. It was good for Dave to see it though. To see how the police cordon off the place and how the paramedics rush to get the child out of the helicopter and into the hospital.
Today Mic had a change of diet. From Mash and gravy to chips and broccoli with gravy. MJ used to love broccoli, but the look on her face today made me think this might well have changed.
On Sunday, we were outside of the hospital when the air ambulance landed. I knew exactly how that mum was feeling. I knew what would be going on inside A&E and it brought tears to my eyes. Memories I have buried just came flooding back. It was good for Dave to see it though. To see how the police cordon off the place and how the paramedics rush to get the child out of the helicopter and into the hospital.
Today Mic had a change of diet. From Mash and gravy to chips and broccoli with gravy. MJ used to love broccoli, but the look on her face today made me think this might well have changed.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
O and X's
Saturday, October 11th: Mic is moving her right hand more frequently now. She is trying to get it to work herself. She will try and bite her fingers and also make the hand go through her hair with her left hand. I think it must feel like she has pins and needles in her arm.
On Wednesday, Mic was given a pen and a book to write in. Unfortunately Mic is not left handed, so she doesn't quite have the co-ordination to write correctly. Although, in saying this, we played noughts and crosses yesterday and she tried to make a mark with the pen. She really concentrated and as such was able to play the game properly, without assistance. It's just one more thing that's MJ. We used to play the game for ages when she was bored.
Last night, the police returned McAyla's shoes that she had on the day of the accident. I wanted to cry. I kept touching them, thinking about what she must have felt. There must have been that brief moment, a milisecond in time, when she knew what was happening. I pray that she never remembers it.
On a lighter note, have you noticed the funky socks that Mic is wearing? I promise, they get a lot brighter and funkier, lol!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
MJ performs new tasks
Tuesday, October 7th: One month ago today tradgedy struck our little family group. This time last month, I was crying so hard, praying that my little girl would keep fighting and get through this tough time. One month on and MJ is dressing herself (with a little assistance), laughing, trying to feed herself, drinking thickend water and sits in a wheelchair.
I showed Mic the photo's of herself in ICU. She grabbed the phone out of my hand and started to scroll through the pictures. She seemed quite intrigued with how she looked and I don't think she could associate the pictures as being her.
Mic got her wheelchair today, but is only allowed to be in it for short periods of time. So, taking full opportunity of the moment, I took her for a spin around the ward. I showed her where she'd been living for the past month. It felt, for me, just one step closer to being able to bring her home. The challenges that lay ahead with possibly adapting our house around Mic are minor in comparison.
I started to feed Mic and she took the spoon out of my hand. Twice I filled it with yoghurt for her and twice she placed it in her mouth, with the proper co-ordination. She almost finished the pot too! The SLT's were going to try her on some Quavers and possibly mash. I can't wait to get there tomorrow to find out how she did with it.
Ash and Sam gave MJ some Spongebob hair clips at the weekend. Today she rearranged them in her hair. She had some difficulty in closing them, but I think that's more because they are new than anything else.
Wow! She's doing amazingly well, and I am so proud of her.
I showed Mic the photo's of herself in ICU. She grabbed the phone out of my hand and started to scroll through the pictures. She seemed quite intrigued with how she looked and I don't think she could associate the pictures as being her.
Mic got her wheelchair today, but is only allowed to be in it for short periods of time. So, taking full opportunity of the moment, I took her for a spin around the ward. I showed her where she'd been living for the past month. It felt, for me, just one step closer to being able to bring her home. The challenges that lay ahead with possibly adapting our house around Mic are minor in comparison.
I started to feed Mic and she took the spoon out of my hand. Twice I filled it with yoghurt for her and twice she placed it in her mouth, with the proper co-ordination. She almost finished the pot too! The SLT's were going to try her on some Quavers and possibly mash. I can't wait to get there tomorrow to find out how she did with it.
Ash and Sam gave MJ some Spongebob hair clips at the weekend. Today she rearranged them in her hair. She had some difficulty in closing them, but I think that's more because they are new than anything else.
Wow! She's doing amazingly well, and I am so proud of her.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Still laughing
Monday, October 6th: I got to hear Mic laugh first hand today! I was the source of her amusement. More accurately, my hair was. She played with my ponytail and was giving me funky hairstyles that were just beautious.....NOT!!! LOL!
She had a good physio session today, in which they got her to sit up. She did really well and even reached to the right for the ball. Even though she was in agony, she kept going. What a trooper!
The kisses are coming more freuently too. She actually purses her lips to give us a kiss. MJ is putting a lot if things in her mouth recently and I think this is just another phase in her re-development. If she holds your hand, don't let her bite your fingers! She also has the tendency to close her left eye and peek out the right. It looks like she's winking or playing a game with you. We think she is trying to make the eye focus as the vision may be a bit blurred or doubled. Only time will tell.
Mic's splints will come off at night time now too, giving her feet the freedom they need. Hopefully she won't get stuck in the side rails now.
P.S. Mic's website is up and running now, so have a look and give us some feedback. http://mcayla.com
She had a good physio session today, in which they got her to sit up. She did really well and even reached to the right for the ball. Even though she was in agony, she kept going. What a trooper!
The kisses are coming more freuently too. She actually purses her lips to give us a kiss. MJ is putting a lot if things in her mouth recently and I think this is just another phase in her re-development. If she holds your hand, don't let her bite your fingers! She also has the tendency to close her left eye and peek out the right. It looks like she's winking or playing a game with you. We think she is trying to make the eye focus as the vision may be a bit blurred or doubled. Only time will tell.
Mic's splints will come off at night time now too, giving her feet the freedom they need. Hopefully she won't get stuck in the side rails now.
P.S. Mic's website is up and running now, so have a look and give us some feedback. http://mcayla.com
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Mic laughs!
Sunday, October 5th: The most exciting thing happened today....Mic laughed! Unfortunately I wasn't there to see it, but Ash and Sam were. They made her laugh and filmed it too so everyone can see for themselves. Wow! I'm over the moon! Another piece of McAyla is back! I think the doctors are going to have their socks blown right off tomorrow when they get the update!
By the way, sorry about the video being sideways, but you can't mistake that genuine smile and giggle. I truely hope that you are able to view it and share the joy!
Mic had some visitors yesterday, Kim and Nic B (and their mum's). As soon as I have permission from their mum's, I'll upload the photo's of the visit. Thanks guys for coming to see MJ, I think it did her the world of good. She stayed awake longer yesterday than she has done in ages. I truely believe in my heart of hearts that Mic was listening to both Kim and Nic. You guys were amazing and handled the whole situation really well. Thanks for talking to McAyla and holding her hand, it warmed my heart to see her friends being so positive around her.
I can hardly believe that nearly a whole month has passed since our world got turned upside down. I'm so amazed by how MJ is fighting to get back her health and how she's is proving those initial reports of her status so wrong. LITTLE PETAL ROCKS!
By the way, sorry about the video being sideways, but you can't mistake that genuine smile and giggle. I truely hope that you are able to view it and share the joy!
Mic had some visitors yesterday, Kim and Nic B (and their mum's). As soon as I have permission from their mum's, I'll upload the photo's of the visit. Thanks guys for coming to see MJ, I think it did her the world of good. She stayed awake longer yesterday than she has done in ages. I truely believe in my heart of hearts that Mic was listening to both Kim and Nic. You guys were amazing and handled the whole situation really well. Thanks for talking to McAyla and holding her hand, it warmed my heart to see her friends being so positive around her.
I can hardly believe that nearly a whole month has passed since our world got turned upside down. I'm so amazed by how MJ is fighting to get back her health and how she's is proving those initial reports of her status so wrong. LITTLE PETAL ROCKS!
Friday, October 3, 2008
What an exciting day!
Friday, October 3rd: What an exciting day! We were walking into the ward today and happened to pass the neurosurgeons on their rounds. The one registrar told us Mic was talking! He said that it's only yes and no, but she is verbalising. Well, as you can imagine, I couldn't get in there fast enough! As much as I spoke with Mic the whole day, I have to say I didn't hear a single word. So, I checked with the nurses. They said that the nurse on duty last night thinks she heard Mic say no. Until I can say I've heard it myself, I still don't think she has spoken. Sorry guys! I know it's disappointing.
Mic had her first proper bath today. That in itself tired her out. I bought her some toys as she likes to hold things and touch things with different textures. So, when she went for her physio session, we took the bag down with us and asked her to choose what she wanted to hold. She chose the cheerleader pom-pom. Making choices is another improvement too.
Another good thing, the neck brace is off. She went for an x-ray and they decided it was time for the thing to come off. I'm so glad, because it was causing her so much discomfort. Mic can hold her own head up, but it isn't consistent, as the muscles really haven't had to work too hard over the last month. She still feels like the collar is there, and reaches for it, and I think she is a little confused when she doesn't find it there, so she finds her t-shirt and pulls at that, or sticks her finger in her ear.
The other new thing she is doing is tucking her hair behind her ear. It's just soooo McAyla! I love it.
She has been a bit naughty though. She pulled the feeding tube out of her nose....twice!
As she discovers her face, when she feels something odd, she tugs at it or scratches it, hence the pulling of the tube. I can say that it is not pleasant watching the nurses have to put it back in.
I got to feed her on Thursday. She was really tired, so didn't have too much. The SLT's tried to give her water first, but as she hasn't learnt the skill to hold it in her mouth before swallowing, of course it poured straight down the back of her throat and she coughed and sputtered until it was all out. They'll try again next week with some thickened water.
Monday should be pretty exciting for McAyla as well, as the OT's will be coming to assess how she dresses and washes and they want to see if they can teach her to do some of it on her own.
There won't be a blog tomorrow as I am staying with Mic at the weekend. I'll update you all again on Sunday night.
Mic had her first proper bath today. That in itself tired her out. I bought her some toys as she likes to hold things and touch things with different textures. So, when she went for her physio session, we took the bag down with us and asked her to choose what she wanted to hold. She chose the cheerleader pom-pom. Making choices is another improvement too.
Another good thing, the neck brace is off. She went for an x-ray and they decided it was time for the thing to come off. I'm so glad, because it was causing her so much discomfort. Mic can hold her own head up, but it isn't consistent, as the muscles really haven't had to work too hard over the last month. She still feels like the collar is there, and reaches for it, and I think she is a little confused when she doesn't find it there, so she finds her t-shirt and pulls at that, or sticks her finger in her ear.
The other new thing she is doing is tucking her hair behind her ear. It's just soooo McAyla! I love it.
She has been a bit naughty though. She pulled the feeding tube out of her nose....twice!
As she discovers her face, when she feels something odd, she tugs at it or scratches it, hence the pulling of the tube. I can say that it is not pleasant watching the nurses have to put it back in.
I got to feed her on Thursday. She was really tired, so didn't have too much. The SLT's tried to give her water first, but as she hasn't learnt the skill to hold it in her mouth before swallowing, of course it poured straight down the back of her throat and she coughed and sputtered until it was all out. They'll try again next week with some thickened water.
Monday should be pretty exciting for McAyla as well, as the OT's will be coming to assess how she dresses and washes and they want to see if they can teach her to do some of it on her own.
There won't be a blog tomorrow as I am staying with Mic at the weekend. I'll update you all again on Sunday night.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Eyes
Wednesday, October 1st: Today Mic went for an eye check up. The doctors are concerned because MJ doesn't like to pull her eyes to the right. So, they just needed confirmation that no major damage has been done to the right eye as a result of the fracture.
You'll be glad to know that there isn't. She has a swollen nerve at the back of the eye which, in time, will heal and the eye should then move as normal. Establishing how far Mic can see and what she can see will take place at a much later stage. The nerve is swollen due to the high pressures that were inside the skull when the brain was swelling. Before the test took place, Mic reached up and rubbed her left eye. She hasn't done that before. She also discovered her ear and nose.
Mic had some drops placed in her eyes which helped to dilate the pupil a bit. The drops sting. McAyla looked like she wanted to cry and did not respond well to the drops or the bright light that was shone in her eyes. At one point she grabbed the consultant's hand to pull it away from her eyes.
We were in the waiting room and it dawned on me that there will be some things I need to get used to sooner, rather than later. Firstly, the fact that people don't know how to deal with someone who is verbally unresponsive, and secondly, the fact that people will always stare when something or someone is different. I don't believe it is out of nastiness, but merely a desire to understand why.
On a lighter note, Mic can play thumb wars again. Not quite the same rules, as you have to place your thumb against hers to let her know it's there, but she's able to pin you down. One...Two...Three...Four...Mic declare's thumb wars!!!!
You'll be glad to know that there isn't. She has a swollen nerve at the back of the eye which, in time, will heal and the eye should then move as normal. Establishing how far Mic can see and what she can see will take place at a much later stage. The nerve is swollen due to the high pressures that were inside the skull when the brain was swelling. Before the test took place, Mic reached up and rubbed her left eye. She hasn't done that before. She also discovered her ear and nose.
Mic had some drops placed in her eyes which helped to dilate the pupil a bit. The drops sting. McAyla looked like she wanted to cry and did not respond well to the drops or the bright light that was shone in her eyes. At one point she grabbed the consultant's hand to pull it away from her eyes.
We were in the waiting room and it dawned on me that there will be some things I need to get used to sooner, rather than later. Firstly, the fact that people don't know how to deal with someone who is verbally unresponsive, and secondly, the fact that people will always stare when something or someone is different. I don't believe it is out of nastiness, but merely a desire to understand why.
On a lighter note, Mic can play thumb wars again. Not quite the same rules, as you have to place your thumb against hers to let her know it's there, but she's able to pin you down. One...Two...Three...Four...Mic declare's thumb wars!!!!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Exhilarating and heart breaking & visitors news
Tuesday September 30th: Today was both exhilarating and heart breaking. Mic went for a physio session today. They sat her up on the edge of the bed and her poor little body just doesn't have the strength to support her. Although, in saying this, she tolerated the sitting for a longer time than the first session.
The physio's had Mic lay on her back and tried to entice her to roll over from one side to the other by using pom-pom's and a squidgy ball. This worked really well and Mic tried her best to do as asked, and achieved a half roll. They then laid McAyla on her stomach to see if she could lift her head and push up on her arms. She did this really well too. The neck brace was cumbersom though. It's kind've like watching a baby go through all the developmental stages. This is what broke my heart. Not only could I see that the brace was hurting, and damn she's been hurt enough, but it hurt knowing that I would have to watch her redevelop all those skills again. It's like she's been reborn.
She was really exhausted after this session and just as we got her upstairs and settled, the SLT's (speech and language therapists) arrived with her yoghurt. Unfortunately, Mic was asleep, so I never got to watch them feed her. As I mentioned yesterday, she had tried the yoghurt and coped really well. By the time they arrived in the afternoon and fed her more yoghurt, she was closing her lips around the spoon and taking the food off it. She also managed 10 teaspoonfuls! I can't wait to get to her tomorrow to find out how many she had tonight.
Mic was also due to visit the optician and audio people to establish if there was any fault with her hearing and eyesight. Unfortunately, this hadn't happened by the time I left. We did speak to a neurosurgeon and he has been very happy with her progress. We also spoke with the rehab specialist, Margo Edwards, and she is also very positive about Mic's progress.
When it came time for us to leave, Mic grabbed my sleeve and didn't want to let go. This made me want to cry. I want to cry every time I say goodbye to her. I can't wait to get up in the mornings just so I can get to the hospital to see her. I can't get there quick enough some mornings, so I can find out what new things she has learnt and what else she has achieved.
We are going to start a visitor rotation scheme for her. As she is only allowed 3 people to her bedspace at a time, and one of them has to be a parent, I'm leaving it open to yourselves to either add a comment or text me so I can set out appropriate timescales for visits. I'm sure you also appreciate that only a few people can visit at a time as Mic is easily exhausted, so we are asking that only 2 of her mates (with parents) visit on any allocated Saturday. Clear your Saturdays and let me know which Saturday is appropriate for you and I will do my best to get you in asap to see her.
The physio's had Mic lay on her back and tried to entice her to roll over from one side to the other by using pom-pom's and a squidgy ball. This worked really well and Mic tried her best to do as asked, and achieved a half roll. They then laid McAyla on her stomach to see if she could lift her head and push up on her arms. She did this really well too. The neck brace was cumbersom though. It's kind've like watching a baby go through all the developmental stages. This is what broke my heart. Not only could I see that the brace was hurting, and damn she's been hurt enough, but it hurt knowing that I would have to watch her redevelop all those skills again. It's like she's been reborn.
She was really exhausted after this session and just as we got her upstairs and settled, the SLT's (speech and language therapists) arrived with her yoghurt. Unfortunately, Mic was asleep, so I never got to watch them feed her. As I mentioned yesterday, she had tried the yoghurt and coped really well. By the time they arrived in the afternoon and fed her more yoghurt, she was closing her lips around the spoon and taking the food off it. She also managed 10 teaspoonfuls! I can't wait to get to her tomorrow to find out how many she had tonight.
Mic was also due to visit the optician and audio people to establish if there was any fault with her hearing and eyesight. Unfortunately, this hadn't happened by the time I left. We did speak to a neurosurgeon and he has been very happy with her progress. We also spoke with the rehab specialist, Margo Edwards, and she is also very positive about Mic's progress.
When it came time for us to leave, Mic grabbed my sleeve and didn't want to let go. This made me want to cry. I want to cry every time I say goodbye to her. I can't wait to get up in the mornings just so I can get to the hospital to see her. I can't get there quick enough some mornings, so I can find out what new things she has learnt and what else she has achieved.
We are going to start a visitor rotation scheme for her. As she is only allowed 3 people to her bedspace at a time, and one of them has to be a parent, I'm leaving it open to yourselves to either add a comment or text me so I can set out appropriate timescales for visits. I'm sure you also appreciate that only a few people can visit at a time as Mic is easily exhausted, so we are asking that only 2 of her mates (with parents) visit on any allocated Saturday. Clear your Saturdays and let me know which Saturday is appropriate for you and I will do my best to get you in asap to see her.
Monday, September 29, 2008
More good news
Monday September 29th: More good news today. The speech and language therapists gave Mic 8 teaspoonfuls of yoghurt today. She managed very well, but tired after that. If you can imagine how a baby feeds for the first time, this would be similar to how Mic is eating now. She can't remember to close her mouth around the spoon when it is placed in her mouth, so they have to scrape the food against the top of her mouth. She then tastes it with her tongue and proceeds to swallow.
The occupational therapists gave her a sensory session today. She didn't like anything that was in a tube or wire form. I think that it's because she felt all the tubes that were in her and relates that to pain. She did however like the disco ball, and other toys.
When we were leaving, Daz went to give Mic a hug and placed his head on her tummy. She responded by reaching for his hair and gently touched it. She did the same with Ash and then me. It's the closest we have come to a hug since her accident. YEAH!!!!!
A positive week
So much has happened in the last few days, or so it seems.
We had a discussion with the police about McAyla's case. For obvious reasons I cannot say very much other than they think it was Mic's fault. The course of the investigation depends entirely upon McAyla and how she progresses. Initially, they were treating this case as if McAyla was not going to make it through, but being the tough cookie that we all know and love, she proved them wrong. Let's hope she can do it again!
Saturday 27th, and I cannot believe the change in my little girl from 20 days ago. On the outside, she looks exactly the same as before the accident, except for a few bruises and a bit of her hair that has been shaved. Also, she still hasn't spoken, but, that will come. Oh, how I miss her little voice.
She went for physio on Friday and they laid her on a bed which they could tilt upright. The purpose of this is to help Mic to learn to stand and to put pressure on her feet again. Whilst they were tilting her, she tried so hard to lift her head so she could see what else was going on in the gym. There was another child having physio and he was on a toy that he could push himself around on. Ashley was in Mic's way and she tried to look around Ash to see what was going on. Still as curious as ever. I bet she was wishing she could've had a go! She has these groovy new splints which have a denim design on which help to keep her ankles in the correct position. She will also have a night time pair which have a rainbow design on. I have to say, they look a lot better than the purple plaster casts she had on. We don't know if the splints will need to be on forever, or if they will only be on until McAyla can walk again.
Mic can now lift her bottom up a little bit when asked. I noticed she is pulling at her neck brace which indicates she is very uncomfortable. Both legs move more freely now. I think the casts were just too heavy for her to lift. She is definitely more alert than she was a week ago, although she still doesn't seem to know where she is. It's difficult to explain, but hopefully when you all get to see her, you will understand.
It's been 3 weeks since the accident and every day McAyla gets that little bit stronger and a little more alert. 3 weeks of absolute torture. I can't wait to get up to the hospital every day to see her and I hate it when I have to leave. We saw one of the ICU nurses that looked after Mic. She can't believe the change in McAyla either. Hopefully, looking at the photo's you will see the tremendous difference in her too.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Update from Terri
Many people have asked me how we are coping as a family, as parents and as a mother. The honest answer is I don't really know. No-one knows how they will react in situations forced upon them, until it happens to them. I can tell you that it's been an emotional roller coaster that I never want to go on again.
I cannot go into detail of how the accident occurred, purely because I was not there and I don't want to speculate. All I know is that my life changed forever on September 7th, 2008.
For the purpose of McAyla's friends who may read this with their parent's permission, I will start at the beginning.
Sunday afternoon, McAyla's neighbourhood friends knocked on the door, asking if she wanted to go with to the shops. I didn't have a problem with this as I know McAyla is careful on the roads. The funny thing is, I don't think she really wanted to go as she rolled her eyes when she asked. I told her not to go if she didn't want to. She went anyway.
A few moments later, there was a loud knock on the door. I opened it and McAyla's 15 year old friend (who shall remain nameless, as she is not aware of the blog) screamed out "McAyla's been hit by a car!" Daz was laying on the couch but as soon as he heard, he was out of the door and running down the road in his socks. I pulled on trainers and followed. I cannot tell you if I left the door open or not. I know I left Cortni standing in the lounge. I don't even know if she followed me out the door. Luckily, Ashley and Samantha were at home to look after her.
About half way down the road, I passed the social club and heard somebody say something. I suddenly stopped running and wondered if I really wanted to see what was waiting for me around the corner. Then I thought about my baby laying in the road and I started to run again.
As I turned the corner, I saw the ambulance, paramedics tending to McAyla, Daz walking, fingers linked behind his head, police stopping traffic and turning them away, McAyla's friends crying and walking toward me. I ran to McAyla and saw blood pooling around her head, her face was pointed to her right and her forehead looked like it was split in two. I touched her and spoke with her, reassuring her of my love. I looked for Daz. He was sitting on the pavement, colour had drained from his face. There was a blonde woman with him, talking to him. I noticed McAyla's trainer on the pavement and looked for the other one. I couldn't see it. I looked at her feet and noticed the tops of her socks had holes in them. There was a man, not in uniform, but helping McAyla. I saw high heel shoes and keys neatly on the pavement. This seemed odd to me. The blonde woman approached me and I noticed her feet were bare. I later learned she was an off duty police officer and the man helping McAyla was an off duty doctor.
All of this seemed to happen in slow motion, until I saw Ashley coming up the road crying and panic in her eyes. I hugged her and told her to go home. I needed to be with McAyla and I needed Ashley at home to look after Cortni. A neighbour walked her away.
I asked the paramedics if I could go with them in the ambulance. They agreed and loaded McAyla up first and I had to sit in the front. It was at this point I got to walk around the car that struck my baby girl. The only thing I saw was the impact point on the windscreen.
We drove to County Hall and met the air ambulance. Again they took McAyla first and then loaded me up. Only once in the helicopter, did the tears start to stream down my face. We arrived at Birmingham Children's Hospital and they whisked her into A&E. I had to wait until the helicopter cleared the air space. Why, I don't know. Then I was taken to see McAyla in A&E and that's when I got really scared. I have never seen so many people work on such a little body, just trying to save her life. They told me everything they were doing, but for all the money in the world, I cannot remember half of it. Once they were happy, they sent McAyla for a CT scan, which is like an x-ray of the brain.
I met up with Daz who had arrived at the hospital during this time, and we were then sent to wait in the parents waiting room in ICU. Time passed very slowly as we waited to see MJ. When we did get to see her, it was very scary. There were tubes and wires going into her, a monitor was above her and there was a ventilator breathing for her.
That night, we didn't sleep much. In fact, for many nights we didn't sleep properly or eat. For the 9/10 days that McAyla was in ICU, I kept a bedside vigil, occasionally swapping with Daz. McAyla was eventually moved to ward 10. On Friday 19th, she opened her eyes fully for the first time. I was so excited. The only problem was she didn't seem to recognise me.
As each day passes, she makes a little more progress. On Tuesday, I noticed she was moving her tongue in her mouth and it looked like she was trying to say something and becoming frustrated. So, I decided to pull tongues at her and make funny shapes with my mouth. When I told her to pull her tongue out, she did! Yesterday she had a physio session and they were very happy with her progress. Whilst she can't sit on her own yet, she tried to roll over when asked and lifted her right leg on command. She looked for me yesterday when asked and that made me so excited. Oh, and in case you were wondering, even if you are sick, you have to go to school! The teachers have been up 3 times to see McAyla, but each time she's been asleep. Do you think she does it on purpose?
McAyla tires easily now and there will be many things she needs to learn again. Once she is feeling stronger, we will arrange visiting times for you all.
For those grown-ups who ask about the driver, she is devestated by what has happened. She phones the police everyday to find out how Mic is doing. I harbour no ill feelings toward her or Mic's friends. She has to live with the same image I do...and worse. As far as Mic's friends are concerned, we have spoken with the parents and offered to get the kids counselling should they need it. At the end of the day, in situations like this, nobody is a winner, but everybody does lose something.
Thank you all for your kind words, prayers, cards, letters, poems and teddies you have sent. Thank you to all the staff at Birmingham Children's hospital who have endeavoured to give my child the best possible care. Thank you to the kind police lady and the doctor who stopped to assist. Thank you to the paramedics and the air ambulance staff for their quick response. Thank you also, to all the people on my street who have looked after Cortni and after us as a family. Thanks must mostly go to the nurses in ICU who brought a smile to my face even in my darkest hours. I am truly indebted to you all.
I cannot go into detail of how the accident occurred, purely because I was not there and I don't want to speculate. All I know is that my life changed forever on September 7th, 2008.
For the purpose of McAyla's friends who may read this with their parent's permission, I will start at the beginning.
Sunday afternoon, McAyla's neighbourhood friends knocked on the door, asking if she wanted to go with to the shops. I didn't have a problem with this as I know McAyla is careful on the roads. The funny thing is, I don't think she really wanted to go as she rolled her eyes when she asked. I told her not to go if she didn't want to. She went anyway.
A few moments later, there was a loud knock on the door. I opened it and McAyla's 15 year old friend (who shall remain nameless, as she is not aware of the blog) screamed out "McAyla's been hit by a car!" Daz was laying on the couch but as soon as he heard, he was out of the door and running down the road in his socks. I pulled on trainers and followed. I cannot tell you if I left the door open or not. I know I left Cortni standing in the lounge. I don't even know if she followed me out the door. Luckily, Ashley and Samantha were at home to look after her.
About half way down the road, I passed the social club and heard somebody say something. I suddenly stopped running and wondered if I really wanted to see what was waiting for me around the corner. Then I thought about my baby laying in the road and I started to run again.
As I turned the corner, I saw the ambulance, paramedics tending to McAyla, Daz walking, fingers linked behind his head, police stopping traffic and turning them away, McAyla's friends crying and walking toward me. I ran to McAyla and saw blood pooling around her head, her face was pointed to her right and her forehead looked like it was split in two. I touched her and spoke with her, reassuring her of my love. I looked for Daz. He was sitting on the pavement, colour had drained from his face. There was a blonde woman with him, talking to him. I noticed McAyla's trainer on the pavement and looked for the other one. I couldn't see it. I looked at her feet and noticed the tops of her socks had holes in them. There was a man, not in uniform, but helping McAyla. I saw high heel shoes and keys neatly on the pavement. This seemed odd to me. The blonde woman approached me and I noticed her feet were bare. I later learned she was an off duty police officer and the man helping McAyla was an off duty doctor.
All of this seemed to happen in slow motion, until I saw Ashley coming up the road crying and panic in her eyes. I hugged her and told her to go home. I needed to be with McAyla and I needed Ashley at home to look after Cortni. A neighbour walked her away.
I asked the paramedics if I could go with them in the ambulance. They agreed and loaded McAyla up first and I had to sit in the front. It was at this point I got to walk around the car that struck my baby girl. The only thing I saw was the impact point on the windscreen.
We drove to County Hall and met the air ambulance. Again they took McAyla first and then loaded me up. Only once in the helicopter, did the tears start to stream down my face. We arrived at Birmingham Children's Hospital and they whisked her into A&E. I had to wait until the helicopter cleared the air space. Why, I don't know. Then I was taken to see McAyla in A&E and that's when I got really scared. I have never seen so many people work on such a little body, just trying to save her life. They told me everything they were doing, but for all the money in the world, I cannot remember half of it. Once they were happy, they sent McAyla for a CT scan, which is like an x-ray of the brain.
I met up with Daz who had arrived at the hospital during this time, and we were then sent to wait in the parents waiting room in ICU. Time passed very slowly as we waited to see MJ. When we did get to see her, it was very scary. There were tubes and wires going into her, a monitor was above her and there was a ventilator breathing for her.
That night, we didn't sleep much. In fact, for many nights we didn't sleep properly or eat. For the 9/10 days that McAyla was in ICU, I kept a bedside vigil, occasionally swapping with Daz. McAyla was eventually moved to ward 10. On Friday 19th, she opened her eyes fully for the first time. I was so excited. The only problem was she didn't seem to recognise me.
As each day passes, she makes a little more progress. On Tuesday, I noticed she was moving her tongue in her mouth and it looked like she was trying to say something and becoming frustrated. So, I decided to pull tongues at her and make funny shapes with my mouth. When I told her to pull her tongue out, she did! Yesterday she had a physio session and they were very happy with her progress. Whilst she can't sit on her own yet, she tried to roll over when asked and lifted her right leg on command. She looked for me yesterday when asked and that made me so excited. Oh, and in case you were wondering, even if you are sick, you have to go to school! The teachers have been up 3 times to see McAyla, but each time she's been asleep. Do you think she does it on purpose?
McAyla tires easily now and there will be many things she needs to learn again. Once she is feeling stronger, we will arrange visiting times for you all.
For those grown-ups who ask about the driver, she is devestated by what has happened. She phones the police everyday to find out how Mic is doing. I harbour no ill feelings toward her or Mic's friends. She has to live with the same image I do...and worse. As far as Mic's friends are concerned, we have spoken with the parents and offered to get the kids counselling should they need it. At the end of the day, in situations like this, nobody is a winner, but everybody does lose something.
Thank you all for your kind words, prayers, cards, letters, poems and teddies you have sent. Thank you to all the staff at Birmingham Children's hospital who have endeavoured to give my child the best possible care. Thank you to the kind police lady and the doctor who stopped to assist. Thank you to the paramedics and the air ambulance staff for their quick response. Thank you also, to all the people on my street who have looked after Cortni and after us as a family. Thanks must mostly go to the nurses in ICU who brought a smile to my face even in my darkest hours. I am truly indebted to you all.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Very Unfortunate Accident
I'm not going to add too much to this first post, other than to say that on September 7th, McAyla was struck down by a car in a very unfortunate accident and has been in hospital ever since. I will leave the details to her parents, Terri & Daz.
I know they gain strength through your prayers, thoughts and kind words. Terri will attempt, while running between home & hospital, to fill you in on this blog with her progress. Please feel free to leave comments and let me know how you feel.
- Sarah
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)