Busy as Always

 This has been a crazy few weeks with some not so great news medically, but so many blessings in other areas. I am a little run down as I try to stay on top of everything usually at the detriment of caring for myself. I am trying to do better, but...

Let me start with the quick medical update. Maddy is having headaches almost daily. We are continuing to monitor these and are due to give the neurologist a report in a few weeks to determine next steps. She is also scheduled for her brain MRI on February 24th. 

After two and a half weeks of attempting auditory therapy communication between myself and the audiologist it was determined that Maddy needs Hearing Aids.  The audiologist told me she was pretty sure this was going to be the outcome, but likes to try the therapy first. Maddy is TOTALLY fine with this as the therapy was devastating for her. She has chosen which color she wants and we have an appointment February 9th for her fitting. 

We are still waiting on results from Bruce's Kidney MRI. I have been out of my Camp Gladiator workouts since the beginning of November because my knee started really bothering me. I tried just resting in hopes that I could get back to it. But it became clear that wouldn't work as my knee continued to bother me when walking long distances, walking up and down stairs and driving. I saw my PCP in early December and she started me on an anti inflammatory and started PT.  Unfortunately, one day at PT set me back a week with increased pain and limping. At that point we decided I needed to see an orthopedic. I have seen the orthopedic, had x-rays and an MRI and unfortunately the report was not good. I have severe arthritis and basically no cartilage left in my Right knee. I can never go back to boot camp style workouts or I will need a full knee replacement within two years. I also need a surgery to clean up what cartilage is in there because it has some areas that are snagging every time I bend my knee. I am disappointed because I will miss my community and 5 AM crew. I am also trying to figure out when and how I can manage surgery and take care of the kids. The good news is Alex continues to do GREAT medically. Which is a huge blessing.

On to the fun stuff...more and more I feel like my entire life revolves around horses, but if I'm being honest, its a pretty fun way to spend my days! We had the opportunity to go hear two motivational speakers on the 15th. One was Coach Sherry Winn and the other was Amberley Snyder. They were both amazing and had awesome stories of inspiration to share. Alex made a real connection with Coach Winn and has actually had some communication with her. Maddy knew Amberley's story and loved meeting her in person.  (If you aren't familiar watch Walk, Ride, Rodeo on Netflix). 

Alex with Coach Winn

The kids with Amberley Snyder

Maddy continues to ride multiple times a week and is gaining confidence and skills on a regular basis. She is currently riding two horses, Gabby and Blue. She loves them dearly and they are teaching her so much. No matter how hard the day has been, time with her horses brings out a smile every time. I am so grateful for the Sanctuary that Victory Therapy Center is for her. 

Maddy riding Blue

Maddy with Gabby

Maddy riding Gabby

Maddy riding Blue

On top of riding we had a few other events at VTC this past week. Tammi, Maddy's beloved coach received a promotion. Her coworker wanted to redo her office as a surprise and asked us to help. Maddy had a ball painting and decorating!

We also had an awards ceremony for the Virtual Show we had competed in back in November. Maddy did really well with one first place and two second place ribbons as well as her first high point award as Reserve Champion for her division!

These two always cheer each other on!

Besides Riding, Maddy continues to LOVE school and her ballet and art lessons with Ms. Joli. She was also blessed  this week with a Keyboard as we have been told that playing piano would be good for her auditory issues.

Heading to School

Yoga Warmup is her favorite

One last update...many of you knew that Mia hurt herself and it looked like she was going to need surgery. She has been on medication and surprisingly is no longer limping and is back to her playful self. We are not sure whether we will need the surgery in the future, but for now she is doing well and it is off the table!

Sorry that was so long!! I am so grateful for the amazing people in our lives who pour so much love into my children and have helped shape them into the happy, resilient kids they are.  Please pray for Maddy as she struggles to come to terms with all she is dealing with medically. Pray for Alex's continued good health and stability. pray for rest for me and peace as I struggle to not the stress of medical and financial strain get to me. Thank you for always being there for our family!

Ali