Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Running

I recently met a small group of moms online who's children have the exact same combination of needs as Matthew. They all have clubfoot with nerve damage or neuromuscular clubfeet. It has been absolutely wonderful to chat with them as they are a wealth of knowledge having already seen Dr Dobbs, as well as the feeling of comradeship. I started to wonder if I was giving anything back to them as Matthew is the oldest of the group and has had the most 'work' done.

In the process of chatting with them, they have read some of my blog and were happy to read that Matthew not only runs, but plays soccer and does everything that other kids do. I realized that I needed to show them how well he functions so they can see how their own children may one day be as well. Yay! Feels good to give back to them!

So, here it is girls, here is Matthew running all out this morning racing his brother in the gym of the school. (Matthew is in the red shirt)


Alright, don't blast me, I know what I am going to say sounds selfish. He looks great running, can keep up with other kids, is doing fantastic. But... (there's always a but isn't there?)

Here is another angle of him running. If you watch carefully, you can see where he is compensating. He swings his arms with as much force as he can as well as both of his feet are now turning to the left of the screen because of the regression.

Don't get me wrong, I am thrilled that he is able to compensate and run and play soccer and do everything an average 6 yr old can. I am also relieved that we are going to see Dr Dobbs and find out what needs to be done to stop this regression and get him on the right track. If he is compensating this much at 6, I can only imagine what his gait will look like after puberty without intervention.

6 comments:

Jennifer said...

His smile is wonderful Jo-Ann!
I am so happy that you have found such a wonderful group of ladies that can understand what you and Matthew re dealing with. :o)

Sara said...

You can see how much he loves to run. And that's great that you found that group.

Anonymous said...

OMG, it's so heartwarming to see him run and smile all at the same time. Now that Levi just turned 1yr I know this is possible for him, but at times during this last year I remember wondering if it could ever happen! :) Jamie
P.S. Lots more ?'s for you, too much to post here! THANKS!

Sue said...

Wow, Jo-ann -- this is really amazing!! I got shivers watching the first video -- what a beautiful sight to see him run so incredibly well! I have been reading a lot of what Matthew's going through, and while I obviously understand the clubfoot angle, the rest of it is "new" to me. It was really interesting to be able to see what you've been talking about.

As a "clubfoot mom," I watched the second video with a critical eye, watching those little feet do their thing. :) How often I do that through my own day with Grace! :) It was fascinating to watch from that angle, and I can completely see what you're talking about -- arms swinging, and that left foot especially leaning in that direction. Isn't amazing how they can totally compensate with such ease? When Grace relapsed in the summer, the only thing she could do was gallop, instead of run, but MAN she was FAST!!! :) She just made it work, in her own way -- just as Matthew is doing.

This was really cool -- thanks for doing this. I cannot wait to see what unfolds for you guys!

Anonymous said...

I'm so happy that you have discovered the group you have. I know you'll be great suppport for them, and them for you. They'll all love you as much as we do in no time!!

I'm thrilled that the Shriners are coming through for you, that's incredible!! *hugs*

Matthew is so lucky to have such a wonderful mommy.

Unknown said...

He is doing well and he is running. That is a lot to be thankful for. Toot toot!