It was just the Charlie girl and me at seven a.m. today, so I scooped her smiling face out of her crib (she had been staring expectantly at me from her side of the room, just waiting) and took her downstairs to change her. I took her blue band off (a velcro band that keeps her legs together instead of in the "frog" position) and she stuck those bad boys straight out and raised her hands above her head in an exaggerated stretch.
Changed her diaper, sat her up (still smiling) and pulled her into a standing position. This. Was. HUGE! She hasn't used her legs since before she was officially diagnosed! Mind you, it was only for a few seconds, but HUGE!
She had been looking down at her feet, and as soon as she glanced up at me and grinned, it was all over. She tumbled back to her tush as though she had just realized what she did. A few seconds on feet that haven't been stood on since June 21st. I'm sure her muscles are weak due to not being used, so I was surprised she could stand at all.
Just thought I would share that with everyone, because it sure made my day start off great!
Our friends Sarah and Ryan are getting married today, the day before our first anniversary. The wedding is at two, and it should be wonderful. I will have pictures next blog I'm sure.
Not a lot to update on right this moment, but some important dates you should keep in mind:
August seventh she goes in for her progression MRI to see if her chemotherapy is working like it should. Keep your fingers crossed!
Also, August 10th-13th she will be at the American Family Children's hospital for inpatient chemo. Round three!
Here are some pictures I wanted to share as well:
This is Charlie and her moose- a nickname that at nineteen pounds she has rightfully earned.
And this is Charlie all tucked in bed with Mommy- she is what the nurses refer to as a "texture baby". She absolutely LOVES soft things- she loves to feel them and rub them on her face.
I know this update isn't so exciting for you as it is for me, but I wanted this date recorded as the first day she stood since C A N C E R.
Update again soon!
Kristi Rufener
YAY Charlie Girl!!! This is soooooo exciting! The best news in a long long time! Or so it seems! Sounds like that tumor may be shrinking! Can't wait to hear the results from the MRI!
ReplyDeleteHoly freaking crap!!! My google reader stopped your feed way back at the post where your sister's engagement was on and then off.
ReplyDeleteI just sat here and read through everything and I am completely blown away. I am so sorry that I was out of the loop. Please know that you are in my prayers. I am so glad that Charlie stood for you for a bit today. That had to be the best moment! I am sorry that Kevin missed it.
Anyway, I am going to stick you in my favorites list so that I can keep up with you that way. Also, I hope that you two can have a good anniversary celebration and that you have a great time at the wedding.
Charlie will be in my prayers. I hope she kicks cancers ASS!!!
I came across your blog from BabyCenter, and I am so glad I did. I am SO sorry you have go to through everything you are with Charlie - she is an absolute doll, of which I've told most everyone I know about - and I am praying and hoping that she gets better. Even when you are upset, your writing is beautiful and I usually read it through tears, but I am so glad you have this. If nothing else, it gets Charlie's story out there and raises cancer awareness. It makes me sick that such a precious little girl has to endure something so awful, but I'm glad she has a wonderful mom to help lead the way. I will continue to keep you guys in my thoughts and prayers -
ReplyDeleteNaomi