We arrived at Holland Bloorview this week as planned. When we explained Holland Bloorview to Judah, we said there was going to be a gym there to do his exercises and a school for him to go as well. It didn’t take him long to interrupt us and say “maybe we can call it a ‘Gymie-School’ then! It has stuck and we’re going with it. 

We are so thankful for the care Judah received from the staff at SickKids from start to finish. They were truly supportive and compassionate as we navigated the pre-op and post-op stages. 

Judah has been in a lot less pain which is the hope at this point. Pain meds are on an as needed basis now. It’s hard to believe this surgery was just last week. Judah has been such a trooper over the past week and presently with everything going on and with so much change. It’s taken a few days for myself to get adjusted here with all the change we are going through right now. It was more emotional for me than I expected. I know there will be better days ahead. Getting into routines and knowing the place and people better will help, one day at a time. 

All of the staff we have met are so kind and helpful. Judah enjoys going to the therapeutic playroom available to play with a variety of toys and do art activities. It’s something for him to look forward to and he is thriving there. We are able to drop Judah off there and take some for ourselves. As I’m writing this, he just asked, “when is the playroom open this afternoon?” We’ve explored outside at the playground and embraced the warm sunshine as we wandered around different areas.

Judah has started physio and occupational therapy here as well. Our focus over the next three months will be strengthening his muscles in various ways. He is enjoying the new toys and games to play and has some new equipment like a wheelchair and stander. He is definitely motivated to try various movements independently when he has the energy and that is so amazing to see. He will often say, “I want to do this on my own”….”I didn’t need your help that time!” Judah will also be starting school next week here. 

Praise God for: 

-A good transition for Judah from SickKids to Holland Bloorview 

-Judah’s pain meds decreased 

-Friendly and helpful staff at Holland Bloorview 

Prayer Points:

-Judah’s incision to continue to heal well

-Judah’s continued motivation and confidence to try new exercises and activities for physio and occupational therapy and a good rapport between Judah and these wonderful therapists 

-Smooth transitions for Jesse and I between home and “gymie-school” and for our family in this time of change 

-For me specifically as I’m beginning to feel the emotional weight of these changes

Thank you!