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.