January 23

Today is January 23, 2009. One year ago today Kimmie went to the spine doctor and was released from wearing the back brace. It has been a wonderful year watching Kimmie move and play more comfortably.

Last night I got Kimmie to sit on my lap so I could talk to her about it. I told her that tomorrow would be January 23 and that last year on January 23 she went to see the doctor, and he said she didn't have to wear the brace any more. Kimmie told me that it was on a Wednesday. She has a wonderful memory. It was on a Wednesday.

Kimmie wore the back brace for scoleosis for a little more than 3 1/2 years. We hated that brace. At first it was hard to put it on her every day. But, as time went by, we became used to it and our desire to avoid surgery became stronger, so she wore it every day, 24 hours a day.

Yes, she slept in the brace. That was always the question people asked us, "does she have to sleep in the brace?" or "She doesn't have to sleep in that, does she?"

She did not wear it when she bathed, swam or went horseback riding. We would usually let her go without it on Christmas.

One year later she has had two checks of her back and so far no surgery has been recommended. Next month, on the 23rd, she has her next check.

Today I will hug Kimmie and enjoy the feel of my arms wrapping around her back. It's so much better than wrapping around plastic and metal.

--Mom