Sunday, January 31, 2010

Constraint Therapy - Our Version

Constraint therapy is something that is used as a method to help "re-train" the brain. It's often used for kids that have hemiplegic cerebral palsy to help them gain function in their affected side. Although I just said "often used", it is NOT used much here in Ontario - especially in the north. When it is done, it usually involves casting the non-affected arm for a few weeks. During this time, occupational therapy is usually stepped up to get the most benefit. Our previous OT was supportive of trying out a modified method. As you can see in the video, it's very high-tech and involves putting a sock over Bennett's left hand. Even though we only do this every once in awhile, I have seen improvement in the function of Bennett's right arm and hand. I wonder what would happen if we were able to participate in a formal program? If you want to see a great example of constraint therapy, check out Amy's Blog - Maddy has been making some fantastic progress!

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Happy Birthday Bennett!!

What's Going On?

A lot actually. I love blogging but just haven't had the time lately. It serves as a great outlet for me and a virtual baby book for Bennett. So, please bear with me as I play catch up.

First of all, we've been busy lately because after 2 years of looking for a new house, we have finally decided to build! The new house can't be started for a couple months because of winter but in the meantime things have been crazy around here as we get our house ready to sell. It's amazing how much stuff you realize you have when you try to organize it. We've also put off way too many jobs and now find ourselves up to our necks in drywall and paint! I don't really enjoy that kind of stuff too much to begin with but I'm really not liking it with a big deadline of one more week to finish.

I'll blog more about house stuff as it comes up but in the meantime, let's step back more than a month ago to Bennett's 3rd birthday party....Check out the short slideshow above. How I love making those things!!

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Oh Murphy....



Murphy loves to love people. But as I've said - 80 pounds of Murphy love can be a lot to handle...