Getting Stronger

Never underestimate the willpower of a five year old. After a particularly grueling night, vomiting and such, I was certain Meg would be too exhausted to go to therapy. Around 8:15 a.m., she starts pointing at the wall. After several failed attempts at guessing, I asked if she was pointing at the clock. She nodded "yes." Then, she pointed to the door. I asked, "Do you want to go to therapy?" She responded with a big grin. Within a couple of minutes her therapist walked through the door asking if Meg was ready to go! When did she learn to tell time?

Despite receiving all of her nutrition from tube feeds, plus undergoing radiation and chemo she continually amazes the staff with her stamina. She is starting to walk with assistance! She can also sit on a balance ball for a short time. She's mastered Uno Attack and thrills in beating Dad and her therapist. We also like to go to the playroom to play Jenga and paint. Her favorite trick, though, is that she's figured out to use the reclining features on her bed.

Last night I woke to something I hadn't heard in quite some time: "Mom! Mama!" Meg appeared to be having a bad dream and called out for me. Needless to say, the shock of hearing her call out for me jolted me awake. This morning I asked her if she remembered saying it and she nodded "yes." I asked if she would say it again and she shook her head "no." Perhaps she is anxious about trying to speak again. Who knows? For now, it's enough to know that her language is still intact.

Meaghan's days are busy enough to wear out the hardiest of adults, yet she pushes on. Ed and I are perpetually exhausted from our split schedules, but if Meg can meet the challenges of the day with eagerness, then so will we.