She Walks

If you have followed our story then you know waiting for Grace to walk has been more than just a developmental milestone. For us it is a relief. The first 15 months of Grace's life were spent mostly in some type of device to correct her hip dysplasia. Each visit to the specialist bought more discouraging news including hearing that her right hip was not healed after enduring surgery and three months in a spica cast. We were devastatingly disappointed and there was a part of me that wasn't certain medicine could repair her body.

Last Thursday afternoon Jack played at the park with a friend from the neighborhood. Gracie squirmed and whined to go play with Jack and his friend. Normally I let her crawl around and climb up the play equipment chasing after the three-year-olds. On Thursday, however, Jack and his pal were playing in the brambles gathering miscellaneous berries and branches to "feed the ants". I couldn't let Gracie down to chase them on her knees because her little legs would have gotten torn up. After struggling with her for a few minutes I finally said, "if you want to play with them then you need to walk." She didn't walk and we left the park a little bit later.

The next morning prior to Christian leaving for work Gracie walked. We were in the living room in our pajamas and she walked from Christian into my arms. We yelled and cheered and high-fived. She then walked from me to Jack and Jack to Christian and back to me. We cheered and laughed and got a little teary. Our sweet girl can walk!

She has advanced very quickly over a few short days and is now walking everywhere. We are excited and pleased to watch her discover her world in a completely new way. It is amazing the difference a year makes. We are so proud of you sweet Grace for your determination and strength.