Anxious Anticipation

As most know, Charlie has been trying to walk for the last couple of months. She is tempted to try each time she sees another toddler walking. Her most recent unsuccessful attempt occurred after she watched the birthday boy take some of his first steps on Saturday. After her fall, I picked her up and comforted her as she cried out of frustration.

As a parent, it is a tough thing to repeatedly watch. That is why I was delighted to learn today that her Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFO) have arrived. She will receive her AFOs next week.

While I am excited for Charlie, I am also afraid to hope. What if the AFOs are not as helpful as hoped? What if the issues holding her back are more extensive than the muscle tone in her feet and ankles? Quite honestly, I’m a little anxious.

So far, Charlie’s inability to walk has been the most difficult milestone to watch her struggle with. Socially, there is a large divide between the toddlers that can walk and the babies who can’t. Charlie is aware that she should be a walking toddler.

I hope next week’s AFO fitting will be the first step in helping Charlie become that walking toddler. I am apprehensive that it may not be. If it isn’t, I don’t know how I can remain positive for her when I will feel so discouraged.

As a physical therapy activity, Charlie climbs the stairs frequently. This was one of the first times that she did it.