There’s an article over on Angie’s List written by Dr. T.S. Park, who is neurosurgeon-in-chief at the highly rated St. Louis Children’s Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine.
He pioneered using a smaller incision with SDR Surgery, and many neurosurgeon’s have followed suit. It’s an interesting article, though really just a brief introduction to the surgery. Still, if you’re interested in this particular surgery for your child with Cerebral Palsy, it’s worth a read.
It seems a lot of little girls dream of dancing. Having Cerebral Palsy doesn’t make little girls immune to that desire.
Ellie's Ballerina Dreams from 2008
At least one physical therapist and part-time dance instructor decided to do something about that and started a dance class for little girls that are “differently abled”. It’s an inspired idea, allowing special little girls to go to dance class, fulfill a dream, and get physical therapy at the same time.
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There’s even a book about it called Ballerina Dreams
….. described as:
Five adorable little girls are given the opportunity to learn to dance like ballerinas and eventually perform on stage. This is no small accomplishment since the girls have cerebral palsy and other muscle disorders and several wear leg braces. To inspire them, their teacher, who is a dancer and physical therapist, gives each of them a glittery tiara and a wand. Assistance is provided to them, as needed, by helpers between the ages of 11 and 16 who work with them during each class and at the recital. As the children learn the steps, their confidence improves and their muscles grow stronger. Finally on the day of the recital, the excitement of makeup and lovely costumes combines with the magic of performing to the beautiful music from The Nutcracker and Swan Lake as they realize their dreams. This is an inspiring portrayal of determination and love that will foster empathy among young readers. The colorful photographs of this dancing community working toward a common goal accurately and sensitively capture the struggles and joyful enthusiasm of all of the participants.—Carol Schene
Well, Miss Ellie is going to get her chance too. Her mom has signed her up for dance class! Grandma is already eagerly awaiting pictures!
It’s hard to believe, but Ellie’s four months in Florida for intensive therapy after her SDR surgery is over.
Wow.
I think her Canadian family and friends that haven’t seen her in the past 4 months are going to be surprised at her progress. She didn’t take long to get back to her pre-surgery abilities with her using her walker to get around, and has worked hard learning to walk with her canes.
She and her parents stopped off here to visit on their way back to Canada.
We had a nice visit, but now Ellie is back in Canada, and back to her usual therapy. It will be interesting to see what her usual therapists think of how she’s doing!
