This is LJ, the sixteen-month-old little boy who got Max's old Pony Gait Trainer. His mom, Jenn, blogs about him at Updates on Lewis Jack. Like Max, LJ had a stroke and seizures at birth. As Jenn wrote to me, "We have a beautiful, strong boy who brings us much joy; and we have been doing everything in our powers since to make sure he is happy and has the best intensive intervention plan in place as possible. It's an evolving thing- keeping our hope as we make our way through the unknown."
LJ reminds me of Max at his age—that smile, those cheeks. I was thrilled to see him sitting in Max's seat. I hope it helps him learn to walk in the same way it did Max. Go, LJ, gooooooooooooooooo!!!! Drive like a maniac! Make your parents have to catch you!
Now, if any other moms reading this have a Pony or gait trainer they no longer need, please email me about it (lovethatmax@gmail.com) and I can hook you up with other moms whose kids are in need of one. FYI, I mentioned to one mom that it might help to get in touch with the local United Cerebral Palsy association in your area and see if they have any ideas about loaners you might be able to get your hands on. You could also ask the company that makes the Pony, Sammons Preston, about trying one out, here's a list of current national sales reps. The company's phone number is 800-475-5036. And, with the help of your physical therapist, neurologist, whoever you can rope in, see if it's possible to have them write letters to persuade your insurance company to get one. That's what we did. I am not sure how things work if you do Medicaid, jump in if you have any advice on getting kids equipment that way.
Next up for grabs on the Special Needs Swap Shop:
The "Dome Alone" from Enabling Devices. This thingie really helped teach Max cause and effect (you press the bubble, the confetti swirls around as "Love Me Tender" plays) and also encouraged him to use his hands. This company has great toys, but I find it a little hard to justify their prices. So, here it is, free! I'll pick a random commenter to get it.
If you have a gadget or piece of equipment for your child that you need or would like to give away, email me at lovethatmax@gmail.com.
