April 13, 2013 - Canine Therapy

April 13, 2013 - Day 7:
These sweet puppies visited Bella today- Lullaby (the lap dog) and Izzy (the trick dog). Izzy gave Bella "5", helped her with her rehab by playing catch with her, and waved goodbye (seriously) when she left. This was a small piece of joy in Bella's day - such a great program!

Bella had a rough night and morning. She wakes up with bad neck pain every morning. They're ordering her a new mattress today so we hope that will help. She was super depressed this morning also. The neurologist told Bella she seems stronge...r today and that helped to perk her up a little. 

Then the PT took her for a workout. They had her up and walking on the rails and she was able to take about 5 steps at a time without her knees buckling. Baby steps but moving in the right direction.

Faith trying to cheer Bella up earlier today 

9 PM:

About to leave the hospital. Brian is taking a 3rd night shift. Faith is spending the night too (shh- it's not officially allowed). Hoping that will keep Bella's spirits up a little longer. OT this afternoon went really well. Bella was able... to pull part the snap blocks that she couldn't pull apart two days ago. She sewed a cardboard picture and strung a few beads on a fishing line-like string. Major improvements over the last few days. That combined with the success in physical therapy is very encouraging to see.
Bella started a blog. I think it will take some time for her to get comfortable writing. The site is http://bella226.blogspot.com/
Please check it out and send her some love there too.
Grandma Diane, Grandpa Tom, Brody and Brian brought Olive Garden (Bella's fave restaurant) for a surprise dinner. Bella enjoyed that but again tired rather quickly.
She also had a visit earlier this afternoon from the Thornes.
Tomorrow she has a few visitors scheduled and she is really looking forward to that.