A newborn horse will have the desire to get up and stand within minutes. Shortly after his arrival he'll stretch his front legs out in front of his chest and balance his head. Putting his neck into line is necessary to gather his balance. A first push with his body will extend him half way up and back down again. He then roles to his side and stretches to gather his breath before he tries again. The colt's eyes will be wide and full of life. A short fluffy tail quickly flutters behind him to show his eagerness to have the ground under his soft hooves.
The mare is watchful at his side. She encourages him with a soft grunt and a nudge of her nose. The colt will try again, even after falling to the pasture grass several times. Each fall is a transition towards being stronger and smarter for the moment. All four legs will be wobbly under his body as he stands for the first time. Nostrils wide, the colt will explore his legs. The successful stance on all four legs will be a celebration! Pride will show by the lift of his eyelids and the arch of his neck. It is the colt's spirit that attracts us to his story. This grand accomplishment will lead to more celebrations.
Gustus has the spirit of a new colt. He shows the same eagerness and drive to accomplish all of his goals. His top goal right now is to be healthy and strong enough to go home. Gus is participating in a rehab program to accomplish this goal and overcome his challenges. These challenges are mostly because of a stroke. The stroke probably happened sometime during his life-saving procedure in the PICU. That was miracle number two, and around day four, but who is counting miracles anymore? This part of Gus's story saved his life, and we are so thankful to be helping him overcome the challenges of a stroke. Hopefully I have been able to describe what Gus can still do spite his stroke. He is happy as ever, still clever when he plays, smart to figure out problems and completely a tease. Gus remembers everything he loves; including his friends, family and memories.
During the day Gus works to repair and reconnect his body. His eyes are full of determination to accomplish the next therapy goal. His body movements are directed by his inner try. Gus shows how his core strength is increasing when he sits up all by himself. Stronger and smarter is how I would also describe his latest transitions. He practices the successful changes from last week, and focuses on a new target this week. Curt and I watch and encourage as he works through his struggles. Each fall is a motive to keeping trying. Gus gives every task all his try and always works hard to accomplish it. A successful therapy and goal reached is a celebration! Pride is shown as clicks up a smile and cheers "Oh yea!" He is making great progress and is happy all the way.
When you do get to see Gus again you will know he is not the same little boy from before the accident. He is so, so much more. He is beautiful. Absolutely a miracle.