The Journey We Are On.....

Just another day at school for Ethan! Before I got there to pick him up he walked across the room (est. 12 independent steps in a row)! We are so blessed by all of the teachers, therapists, and support staff at Valeska Hinton. This mom is praising the Lord for the strength and skills our little guy has regained and for those that he has achieved for the first time since we started Valeska in July.

GFPD's Family & Scientific Conferences are a lifeline for our family and families like ours. Families impacted by PBD-ZSD learn about the latest updates in PBD-ZSD research and treatment options from the top PBD-ZSD specialists in North America. Additional topics such as options for family building after a PBD-ZSD diagnosis, medical & educational advocacy for children with PBD-ZSD, pediatric palliative care, and self-care are also covered. Children impacted by PBD-ZSD have the opportunity to be seen by the PBD-ZSD experts in the GFPD/PBD-ZSD clinic held at Omaha Children's Hospital. While we know that these doctors don't have any "miracle" cures, it is important for us to know that Ethan is being seen by doctors who specialize in PBD-ZSD and that we know that we are doing everything we should be doing for our son. The information that is collected from the children who attend the clinic, such as medical history, past and present symptoms, DEXA scans,...

Ethan's teacher, Mrs. Herman, was so proud of how hard Ethan was working today. He's been listening, giving her a conditioned response, and today he made some very purposeful sounds!

Check out the video clip from our local CBS station: Metamor Robotics Team Donates Car to Easter Seals Child. You can also read the Courier Newspapers article: MTHS students build car to help child with disabilities "see the world".

Ethan had a blast during PT today. He worked hard for Ms. Erica. He "swam" kicking his legs and using his arms. He did a ton of weight bearing/standing, took some assisted steps and even attempted some independent steps. He loves the water and his favorite toy to play with in the pool is a pinwheel! He wore his CI in the water for the first time today, and he did really well with it. I'm ready! Ethan has only been working with Ms. Erica for a month, but you can tell they are already developing a special bond.