United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Last week I finally put Tarakyn (who is almost 8) into gymnastics. I have been so paraniod about her arm, but finally decided that it would be a great workout and challenge for her. She did great!! She is holding her own with others in her class. She is not letting anything hold her back, and I have noticed that she is now stretching her arm more now on her own, and that she wants to use it more. I still worry, but I dont miss a minute of class and I work very close with the instructors. I definately would recommend it to others. I hope everyone is doing great and my prayers go out to all of you. Be in touch soon

My RBPI daughter had Gymnastics tonight and she did amazingly well, too! She even did the three-legged doggie well. She is doing lots of imitating, and instead of her typical jumping to elevate her arm, she is actually trying harder to lift it. I am also super impressed that she is developing much more insticnt to place her hand flat to the ground. That particularly makes me very happy. Unfortunately I did have to intervene because the instructor unwittingly was pulling her arm a little bit too much to do belly rocking: on her belly, holding her ankles and then rocking.

Otherwise, I am purely amazed by the way peer participation is really motivating my daughter.

By the way, any chance that you are seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance for the Gymnastics lessons?

Thanks for posting!

Sheila,

It's great to see you post such postive news! Tell Tarakyn she'll have to show us some moves the next time we see you. Julia and I want to plan a gathering this year and we'll definitely be in touch!

Hang in there, mommy! It's not easy to let our little ones take on new challenges (especially when we think they will be overly challenged), but they never stop surprising us with just how much and what they can do!

Take care!
Peggy

Sheila,

This surely is wonderful news. Tell Tarakyn that I am really excited for her and very proud.

Hope all is going well for you all.

Hugs, Karen

Congratulations to you and your daughter for trying something new, and sometimes difficult.

I was in Gymnastics for a tiny bit when I was little, I believe I even did a cartwheel. It didn't last but thinking back I'm glad I did one once. I also tried Cheerleading, but chickened out because I thought everyone would stare at me.

I've gotten over that...Anyway sorry to carry on about myself. But I'm very glad to hear you let her try it out. Keep up the great work, and enjoy.

-Traci

Hi, I've had BPI from birth. i was taking physical therapy for a while and then i started gymnastics. i started when i was really young... around four and ive been taking it for a long time. 10 years about. i love gymnastics.... its my favorite sport. i go once a week and it gives me a sense of confidence. im in the highest class and i love it. my coach is always surprised by the things i can do. now im 14 and stull taking gymnastics. ill admit that im not as bad off as some others have it but i still think gymnastics is a great idea for any kid or adult with bpi.
Amber