United Brachial Plexus Network

I would like to share some very EXCITING news with you all! Nicole has just achieved biceps flexion against gravity after 2 years, 8 months! The Aqua PT measured her today in a couple different positions with a range of 90-105 degrees of active biceps flexion against gravity. I know this was not easy for Nicole b/c we could see her facial expression and how hard she focused and concentrated on achieving the movement. The PT truly looked shocked and also sincerely happy for Nicole when we walked into the pool area today and Nicole showed her what she could do. She just sat there in amazement at first. It seemed to just come out of nowhere and very suddenly. She's had biceps with gravity and also with gravity eliminated for a little while now, but not against gravity until two nights ago.

FYI, if anyone is interested in what we've done to get to this point, I'll summarize as follows: 3 surgeries at TCH including primary, exploratory/neurolysis, and the Mod Quad, lots of therapy including PT, OT, Aqua PT, everyday "life" therapy, Kindermusik, estim at night (for the past 4 months), and various splints, all accompanied by many prayers for wisdom, courage, and strength along the way.

I have been emotional over upcoming surgery decisions and REALLY REALLY needed something positive like this. I am very thankful to God, to TCH, to all Nicole's therapists, to Nicole's supportive local drs, to UBPN for this informative board, to all who make this board what it is -- esp. some friends I've gotten to know here, to my supportive dh, family & friends, to Aetna USHC for supporting our special medical needs, to the state for providing us with Medical Assistance, and to our sweet and determined Nicole for working so hard in therapy.

If you're getting discouarged about biceps function, don't give up hope. Here we are, 22 months post primary and 2 yrs, 8 months post birth injury. I know there is still a long road ahead of us, but I feel like we crossed a major bridge this week. Thank you all for sharing in my excitement and for providing a place where I can share my news without having to go into a huge explanation of what biceps against gravity means and why it's so significant, etc etc. Happy ROMing to all.... Tina )

Tina,
It's great to hear about Nic and her big accomplishment. She has truly worked hard and she deserves this as well as do you and Troy. Your persistance is paying off,and I know that there are many more hurdles that she will cross,like a champ. Again, we are all happy for you guys and I will talk to you very soon. Love you all,

DeShawn

P.S. Ocean got the letter yesterday,and I have forwarded it on. Great idea

Congratulations Tina! I'm so happy for you, Troy and most especially Nicole- she is such a special little girl. It's great to know the hard work and determination is paying off, and really great to know you are feeling more comfortable with the next surgery to come. It seems as if all the kids reach a plateau at certain points and then amaze us once again-- I pray Nicole continues to amaze. Congratulations!!

Tina - life's little miracles are not so little right? I am so happy for you guys. Nicole must be so proud. I remember when I saw Maia's biceps that first time and then it didn't happen again for four months! LOL I knew I saw it but nobody believed me. Gosh.. I am just very very very happy for your whole family. Thanksgiving will take on a whole different meaning this year!

And I really do want to meet you all but I know that if I do, it will be in a bittersweet circumstance. I know you are still working on your surgery decision. I'm still praying for you for ease of mind, however you decide.

big hugs to you, kissies to nicole!!

-francine

Oh Tina--how exciting. I am so happy for you but most especially overcome with joy for Nicole. I have always said Katie needed many miracles and we found 2 of them in Texas @ TCH. She has worked some long hard hours for this moment and I sure hope she got lots of Yahoos! (and maybe a celebration) out of it. Peace to you and Troy while you make this upcoming decision.


christy

Hi Tina,
That is so awesome!!!! I am so happy for you and especially for Nicole! I am curious if you are using the TES on her bicep? We stopped doing e-stim on Amanda's bicep because it seems as if her bicep is stronger than her tricep since she holds it in that little bend all the time. Again, Congratulations!!!
Rachel

Tina,
That is just so wonderful! Thank you for sharing such hope and good news. You made my day.
All the Best for future progress,
The other Tina