Big Red

Framed on the wall of the Therapy Gym is this quote:

Little by little, inch by inch,
By the yard it is hard,

By the inch, what a cinch.

Never stare up the stairs,

Just step up the steps,

Little by little,

Inch by inch.

By: Ron Hamilton

The physical therapist bursts through Gus's hospital door, "Gussy!" "Good morning buddy," she tells him. "Want to go play in the gym?" She asks. "Ya!" Gus exclaims back excited. He's on the edge of his bed, ready to go. Pancake breakfast in belly, he loads up in his chair. We wheel to the therapy room, or what we call the gym. The gym is the place to be in Gus's world. On the floor is carpet and foam mats for playing and sitting.  Mirrors around the room invite positive feedback as he can see himself working. In the corner is where the bikes and bigger equipment is parked. The cabinets are full of puzzles, games, balls, blocks, cars, books and other toys. Resources all used to help children become better at using their bodies again. The best resource is found in the inventive mind of the therapist. Her ability to be creative keeps Gus motivated and active. The item that caught Gus's eye from the very beginning was 'Big Red.'

Big Red is an extra, extra large exercise-therapy ball. Gus has asked to play with it almost everyday. "Big Ball?" he points over to it. Propped against the wall, the ball has a voice of its own, "Let's play and bounce!" The first time Gus and Big Red bounced was a priceless moment. Gus laughed from his belly when the therapist rolled over to him on top of the ball. Smiling with all his mouth he motions to get on.  The therapist positions his body next to the ball that is three times his size. Palms first, she starts to roll his body onto the massive pillow of air. He holds his breath as he rolls all the way to the top, eyes wide with suspense. Securely holding his feet, the therapist takes Gus on a Big Red roller coaster ride.  He rolls back, forth and all-around, extending his arm out for the floor. Smile being smooched against the plastic surface. Having to much fun to care as some spit runs down the side. I can hear Gus's giggles jump up and down as he bounces. It makes us all laugh harder. Then I hear the sound become a burp. Then a belly gargle. The ride comes to an abrupt stop. Gus signals with his hand on his mouth. His sign language for, "my belly doesn't feel good." To much bouncing on the big red ball can make you almost lose your breakfast. Gus still rides Big Red often, we just have to monitor the belly bouncing.

Physical therapy for Gus is play and practice. I think the first goals he accomplished was to hold his head up and focus his eyes on the toys. Just weeks ago, his goal in physical therapy was to sit up by himself for a minute. After that he increased his core strength and began sitting up during most of the therapy sessions. This means he can cruise the halls in a less confined wheel chair. Now the goals are directed to help the left side of his body and his core strength. Being able to move and coordinate his left leg and foot is a target. Gus practices this by scooting on a bike down the hall. Another goal is to have Gus aid his left arm and open his left hand. Gus practices when he plays with toys and games on the floor mats. He practices his bodies balance and core strength as he plays T-ball, bean-bag toss, or on Big Red

The best part about Gus's therapy is his attitude. He knows he is getting better and he works so hard every minute. He is positive and helpful in the rehab program. Witnessing his success is incredible and we know he is the main reason he is becoming stronger everyday.  Strength is not just the quality of being strong. Strength is Gus's potential in action. Not only potential in his body, but in his mind.

Gus's physical therapists are creative, helpful and encouraging. They challenge Gus to accomplish his goals inch by inch, step by step.  We would like to thank Gus's therapists for all their time and caring gestures. We know his strength is put into action with your help.