Update on Miles' Casting

Miles has been undergoing treatment for the regression of his club feet since November 1st.  He has had a series of casts, changing them every 1-3 weeks.  He had surgery on December 18th where they cut the achilles tendons on both legs and were able to get his feet turned out quite a ways.  The doctor felt he would still need a couple more casts after surgery so that is where we're at right now.  We went on the 30th and were surprised and delighted to get short leg casts, coming up to just below the knee.  This makes it a lot easier to get around and allows Miles to get used to walking again.  The first couple of times he tried to stand up he was like a wet noodle, he just sunk to the ground and he asked why he was so heavy.  But since then he has to started to be able to support his own weight and has been taking steps with help.  It is just like teaching a toddler to walk but he's much taller.  He seems a lot happier with this style cast and kept saying on the way home how much better his legs feel.  The doctor must be happy with his progress, otherwise I don't think he'd have given him the short leg casts.  We go back on January 6th for a final set of casts, then James will take him on the 17th to get those casts removed and get him fitted for his braces/AFOs.  I am grateful they have been able to speed up the process for us and the baby expected on February 11th.  I would just like to know James will be present for the birth of that child.  All the things we have been doing with Miles have made my third trimester seem to go by much quicker than other pregnancies, which I am grateful for.  We have also been very blessed to be sponsored by the local shrine in Akron, Ohio, who have paid for our gas, tolls, and meals while we've been going to Philadelphia.  Not to mention all the toys Miles has received from the Ronald McDonald House and Shriner's Hospital.  Ronald McDonald House also invited James to their "Santa Shop," to pick out toys for all our kids for Christmas.  And all the meals people have brought to our home throughout this busy time.  We have not wanted for much and I am sometimes overwhelmed by the generosity of others.