The 84 Steps

“If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.”

Henry David Thoreau

Zane wants to move. Water therapy has opened up a whole new world to him. He is bored lying down. He wants to be active. He wants to move. It’s not good enough to sit around anymore and play with his cause and effect toys. The boy wants action. It’s like he’s discovered a body he didn’t realize he had. 

Tonight he took 84 steps without any nudging and without me helping him shift his weight. (I still have to hold him upright). Justin and I praised him, and Zane was a bundle of happy, wiggly energy. He knew we were super proud of him. I am absolutely amazed and inspired by his progress. 

In fact, the kid knows way more than most people give him credit for. Today, the three of us went school supply shopping. Throughout the store (almost non stop), Zane made a whole lot of noise because he was bored. When I stood in front of him and told him to be quiet, he beamed up and me and immediately quieted down. He knew exactly what he was doing and was simply acting mischievously. As we approached the register, I said aloud to the boys, “All right. We’re all done.” Zane’s demeanor instantly changed from boredom to sheer happiness. He absolutely, unequivocally, knew we were going home. His cheerful mood carried him out the door and into the car, as well. 

All this is great news. I am thrilled by it. But when we move into the realm of seizure management, things are a little trickier. Zane is now on two meds (each twice a day) to control his Zeizures. The episodes have definitely lessened. But the intensity of the ones that remain are disturbing—to both him and to us. Plus, he seems to be suffering from the side effects (at times), which are lethargy and moodiness. 

But my motto anymore is one moment at a time. So that’s where I am. I don’t need to check in with neurology until Thursday. And Thursday is not in this moment. So I'll follow Zane's example and move one step at a time.