Tonight's picture was taken in July of 2009. That day, Mattie's cousins were in town and spent the afternoon with us in Old Town Alexandria. Though it may look like Mattie was blending in and walking, he wasn't! He was very different and he felt very different both with tubes hanging from his chest, a bald head, and the inability to walk. He stood and posed for this photo, but by that point Mattie was wheelchair bound.
Quote of the day: There is meaning in every journey that is unknown to the traveler. ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer
I have to admit that the actual assessments she has to pass are ridiculous. For example, she needs to be able to step over something that is about two shoe boxes in height and width. I am using this footstool to try to replicate those dimensions. The key with this test is to not slow down and take lots of little steps in between each hurdle. But to walk naturally and simply step over the obstacle. That is easier said than done.
The other test my mom is being evaluated on is walking heel to toe, in a straight line. Her hands and arms have to be down by her side, and not up helping to provide balance. I would love to take a random assessment of people of ALL ages. I suspect that not everyone can do this tight rope walking test. Of course with age and with balance issues, this test becomes close to impossible, but I truly don't think this is a fair evaluation of someone's progress. But then again, when it comes to health insurance, nothing actually makes sense! I am preparing my mom for next week's testing as best as I can, but we may have to face it, she has had therapy for months now, and we may have to take a break.
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