Picnic on the Common

We attended the annual picnic on the Boston Common with local families in the same situation as us - organized through CHASA.  This was the second time we have attended this event - and I would say that it was a lot better this year than last.  Last year, we had received Noah's diagnosis just a few weeks prior and the whole thing was overwhelming.  I'll never forget walking up towards the group last year, standing around the outskirts and Susan and I discussing leaving before we even introduced ourselves.  We ultimately stuck it out, and it ended up being okay before thunderstorms rolled in and we all ran for our cars.

This year, it was a whole different event for us, and we enjoyed it.  It was a great opportunity to talk with others who are going through the exact same stuff that we are and to learn about what others are doing to help their kids along.  It was comfortable this year and funny to think back to the beginning of last year's event when all we wanted was to get out of there.  Many of the families see the same neurologists, orthopedics and therapists that we do at Children's.  It was also really encouraging to see how well many of the kids are doing.  Here is a picture from today with Noah sitting on the ducks:

I also wanted to add a picture of Noah's new brace.  The "AFO" comes up about 2/3 of the way up his calf and really provides support and helps turn his foot straight forward when he walks as it turns out quite a bit. It was nice to be in a place where most of the kids were wearing a brace on at least one leg - some on bot h.  Since Noah got his two weeks ago, his progress walking has been unbelievable.  While we certainly never imagined that our son would be wearing a leg brace, the results have been great and we're glad he has it.  A few more unassisted steps today - and all he wants to do is walk all day long!