Cast #2...

Today we left home late afternoon to drive to Baltimore. We had dinner at the Inner Harbor, and then walked back to the hotel, where the clubfoot course was being held. Zeke's orthopedic doctor was leading this course, and asked us if we'd bring Zeke as a patient demonstration. When we arrived, Shane and the PT took Zeke's first cast off. We had some time while waiting for our "turn" so we were able to wash Zeke's leg and foot a bit. The PT said she'd like him to move his leg and walk or crawl. But, she added, don't be surprised if he can't walk on it. And he couldn't. Of course, those who know Zeke know he wasn't stopped for long. He got around just fine by crawling. And by the time we were called, he was able to put a small bit of weight on it, if we were holding his hands.
When we entered the room, Zeke's doctor began by telling about his case. He also showed the video and pictures they took two weeks ago. It was a bit bittersweet to see him running up and down the hall! While he was talking, a woman walked up and stood beside me. Dr. H said that because of Zeke's age, this would "test the method" and that we weren't sure if it would work or not. The woman at my side leaned over and said, "Don't worry. This WILL work." As it turns out, she is a doctor from Brazil who works with many cases of neglected and also poorly corrected clubfoot. She even showed us pictures later of a four year old she had helped! I think she had taken part in the teaching earlier in the day. And she ended up putting Zeke's cast on. She gave us some helpful tips before, during, and after the casting, and also shared her contact info in case we have any further questions.
Don't get me wrong...we feel that Zeke is in good hands with his orthopedic doctor. But, we're glad he has the support of other doctors with more experience with older kids. And we were thankful for this evening and the chance to meet this woman who was very encouraging!
By the way, this new cast is plaster, covered in fiberglass, to halp protect it. He is much heavier now!! The doctor said that the plaster made it easier to mold, since you could feel the bones. Zeke had quite an audience, as some of the doctors stayed to watch the casting. He screamed much less than last time. Here are some pictures!
First a picture of the smile we see each day!!


The cast removal








The finished cast



By the way, most of the pictures tonight were taken by Josh, who also helped tremendously by distracting Zeke during the casting!