Heal Nick

It was truly a beautiful winter day. Virgin snow, blue cloudless sky and warm sun. Decided it was perfect to have Nicholas try snowshoeing. He was great. It was not easy, as it did require he lift his legs and feet much higher than in a normal walk. He really worked at it, wouldn’t quit, and thoroughly enjoyed being outdoors, soaking up the sun and doing something different. I had intended to upload some pictures to the Photo Gallery to show just how much fun he had. His expressions tell it all. However, there seems to be a glitch on the website, so you’ll have to wait until next week, assuming it will get fixed.

Nicholas was the subject of a physical therapy class on Monday studying neurological muscle disorders and to a minor degree the effects of the Botox intervention. The class lasted almost 3 hours with students diagnosing muscle disorders and practicing therapy techniques. He was impressive, giving simple answers to questions posed by the instructor and patient with the students. I do believe he enjoys being center stage and playing to an audience. He will be returning for another engagement in March.

On a slightly discouraging note the lab work from his annual physical detected a lower than normal concentration of sodium was in his blood, Hyponatremia. This is a prevalent side effect of his anti-seizure medication. Therefore, starting this week he will be transitioning to a new medication. The cross over takes 3 weeks during which time and until he’s able to adapt we can expect him to be less responsive and appear to be more fatigued. Anti-seizure medication is tough stuff on the body and mind. It would be great if he did not have to take it. Unfortunately, the risk of having multiple grand mal and potentially damaging seizures is not worth the risk at this time.

We’re getting over the Pats’ loss & moving on.

Nicholas had his first Botox intervention on January 30th in hopes of reducing spasticity in his right ankle and leg. After 10 days there have been some subtle changes in Nicholas’ hip flexion and knee and ankle articulation (dorsiflexion). A great deal of his PT is now devoted to strengthening the right anterior tibialis & hip flexors. I feel that over time and with proper therapy Nicholas walking ability (gait) & balance will improve.