Tuesday, Dec. 23rd, marked the last day at Isla's intensive PT program at CI Therapies. This round was especially challenging due to Isla's muscles being stiffer than usual. 

As a result, we observed a noticeable step back in some areas compared to previous intensives (such as independent walking). This may be due to the infection she had + time off doing PT for recovery, or the different dose of Botox injections she received for relaxing the muscles, or a combination of all of these things. 

On the other hand, we noticed her side-stepping, sitting in a criss-cross applesauce position, side-sitting, going from floor to standing, getting into her walker independently, and even some interesting language and emotional developments (although I must say, she already has quite impressive language skills!) :-D

This reminded us that in life (and PT) progress is not always linear!

Either way, she was an absolute TROOPER and completed each 4-hour day, 5-day-a-week treatment with both smiles and tears. 

As a parent, it's painful to see your child go through these things. So every opportunity we have, we celebrate the good stuff-- the small (BUT BIG) achievements- the things a lot of us don't think about. 

On the last day, I made a cake and we had a little party at the house with Grandma Alice, Freya (her amazing respite care worker) and of course, daddy, little brother, and me. Balloons, some early Christmas presents, and good food were there too :) 

Going forward, Isla will start aquatic therapy in a few weeks. We also have her next intensive booked for April. We are so dang proud of her and could not be more grateful for your support. MUCH LOVE!!!