Lexi's California Trip    

Friday, December 21, 2007 - Day #15

The last day. Lexi started her day right at 8am sharp. She was happy to see Marvia. They worked on taking off her shoes than elbow time. During elbow time she and Marvia just sit on their elbows and talk. It is so sweet. Marvia asks her what she had for breakfast, if she did any thing special last night, and today she asked Lexi if she was ready to see her brother and sisters. Well, Lexi got a puzzled look on her face and said "I am not on a plane yet!" She understands that she has to get on a plane first before she sees her siblings. After elbow time, she and Marvia rode the "horse". Lexi had fun again. This exercise makes Lexi stretch her heel cords and learn to find her middle. So it is a lot for Lexi to think about. She smiled pretty for me while I took pictures. She did very well. I could see her concentration while I was there. Lexi loved to say "Yee-Haw".

Rafael worked her out hard in the afternoon. He did some very good stretches for her too. They did standing tall for a long time. Then they moved on to high knee. This is when Lexi gets to draw or color.

At lunch, she was glad to see all the other boy's. She ate great. In fact, everyone ate more than they have every eaten in the three weeks. Rafael came to get Lexi for her afternoon session. She was a little hesitate but Rafael said she could draw a picture for him. Lexi again worked very hard in the afternoon. I could hear her arguing with Rafael. She was telling him she did not want to do that exercise. Rafael would laugh than Lexi would go on with the exercise. Today, Rafael worked on Lexi lifting weights. She has so much fun doing this. She grunts and laughs and even lifts the weights 1pound at most. At the end of the day, she had to do more stretching. So she was not happy. No tears were shed. The day is OVER!!

At the end of the day, they had a graduation. Ther e was a lot of food and a cake. Each patient got a trophy. Lexi was so excited. She had to tell her dad and siblings. Kelli told Lexi that only Hallie needs a trophy. Which is true, Kelli got one for dance, Trey got one for t-ball and now Lexi got one for her hard work. Although it was the last day, all the kids worked so hard!! The therapists worked them like it was the first day. All the kids are so tired and ready to go home.

Lexi, my words can not say how marvelous you are. You keep working even when you want to "go home". It was hard. You did not see your sisters and brother for three weeks. I have realized how much you need them in your day. You kept up the good work and did all that Rafael asked of you. That is all your dad and I ask from you. The whole program is intense. When you ask to stop, they push you. You have learned of new muscles you did know you had and did not know how to use them. Now, you understand how your body works as a "team". We have exercises to take home with us. With your brother and sisters near, I bet you will show off for them. You love your new friends: Jace, Chloe, Charles, Hayden, Brenden, Diego, Aidan, and Moorea.

Thursday, December 20, 2007 - Day #14

Lexi made it through the day.  She did great with her strengthen.  She did well while I watched.  She was in her crawl position and held her head up for 20 seconds.  Lexi would even lift her head up to see me.  I know at Jacob’s Ladder they play the same game.  She and Rafael worked on sitting.  They did the cress-cross position, legs straight out position, and side sitting.  Lexi was cooperative during this exercise but she let Rafael know she did not like it.  He just laughed and told her she could do it.  He put her on a rolling platform to make her work harder to keep her position.  I thought she would love this, but I think because Rafael would not let her have fun and just fall back, she fussed.  She came to me for lunch with the biggest smile ever.  She amazes me.  Think she has a thing for Rafael.

After lunch, Rafael and Marvia came to get her.  She was so excited because she made them a picture and with stickers she got from Great Bonnie.  Rafael and Marvia were so impressed. 

I went out to do some shopping with a mom, so I missed a lot of Lexis workout this afternoon.  We mom’s are getting ready for tomorrows big “graduation” day.  Lexis workout time tomorrow is from 8am to 2pm.  At 2pm is the “graduation”.  All the patients get trophies and there is to be food after.  The mom’s have gotten together a nice gift basket to give to the whole staff at NAPA. 

I was able to see her last hour of workout today.  She was working on crawling in the cage, but without the suit.  Well, no tears were shed and no complaining.  So it will be interesting to see how she does when we get home and she has had a week or two of rest.  Lexi ended her day with big smiles and much to say.  She is still asking to go home so tomorrow after therapy I will let her know that we get to get on the plane.  She will be so excited!!!

Lexi, you are just about done.  Tomorrow should be a simple day but still work needs to be done.  I hope it is fun work!!! You are awesome with what you have accomplished.  You smile when I think you are going to say “NO more”.   You are sitting now like a big girl on the couch.  Your head is held high.  That is what you always need to do.  Hold your head up high!!  You have come so far and will continue.  You have made your dad and me so proud these past three weeks.  Kelli, Trey and Hallie love you dearly and can’t wait to see you.  Kelli misses her roommate.  Remember, only 5 more hours of workout.  You can do.  It is tough BUT Lexi Kaiser is TOUGHER!!!  We love you so much.

Wednesday, December 19, 2007 - Day #13

Lexi started off working with Marvia.  When they worked today, they drew some pictures and worked on Lexi’s computer.  Lexi seems to want to push up on her hands rather than stay on her elbows.  But Lexi listens to Marvia nicely and will go back to her elbows. 

After elbow time, Marvia and Lexi started to put on the NeuroSuit.  In the middle of putting it on, Lexi said she had to go to the bathroom.  Well, if you have noticed the suit has lots of cords, hooks and buttons.  So when she mentioned this, Marvia and I had to undo everything quickly.  Lexi made it to the bathroom with very little success.  But she did make it!!  Once in the suit, Lexi worked with Rafael on the ball.  They did “fly time”, crunches, and side sitting.  She was very cooperative at this time.  Then she had to stand up, well she did not like this.  Lexi at home always likes to stand and walk.  So being here and hearing her complain about standing makes me feel that having the suit on is a different feeling than with it off.  So the suit does make a difference in how she feels standing, crawling and walking.  Amazing.

At lunch time, she was ready to go home.  So to distract her we called Kelli and Trey.  Well, that helped a little but Lexi is to smart.  After lunch she went with Avery.  Avery is a nurse here who worked with Lexi on reaching for toys while in her crawl position.  They had a fabulous time.  Lexi would say it was her turn than Avery’s turn.  Lexi was very into this exercise.  Then she and Rafael went to the cage to do crawling position and Lexi was actually great.  She said something I did not hear, but Rafael said “Girl you make me laugh!!”  Hearing that come from your child’s therapist makes a parent happy.  I like to hear that my child has fun while working so hard as well as those working with her.   I took a long walk today along Wilshire Boulevard.  Nice walk for me.  Oops, I even stopped in the GAP.  OK, it was an “all about me stop.”  So I got some new jeans.  When I got back to the center, Lexi was working with Avery again.  They were having lots of fun.  Avery had Lexi holding a noodle.  The noodles used in a pool.  Anyway, while Lexi was in sitting position, she had to hit objects on the wall.  This is very hard for Lexi.  She usually will go into extension…legs go out and she losses control.  So Avery was trying to teach her not to go into extension.  Avery was very good telling Lexi to think about keeping her legs under her while reaching.  When Lexi wanted to extent, Avery would tell her “think about your legs”.   I could see Lexi think about it and she did well.  She was not 100% but you could see on her face the concentration. 

Lexi, hump day is over.  We both are anxious to get home.  We miss dad, Kelli, Trey and Hallie.  We are ready to sleep in our own beds and wait for Santa to come.  You keep on working hard though.  You smile for me to let me know it will be o.k.  Although, I know you are sooooo ready to leave.  You have pleased your dad and me from day one here.  With all this hard work, your goal will be met.  It may not be this trip but your time will come.  So let’s just enjoy the next two days.  No matter what the out come…Your Dad, I, Kelli, Trey, Hallie, Granna Judi, Granna Beverly, Papa George, Papa Roger, all your Aunts, Uncles, cousins and friends LOVE YOU!!  Hugs and Kisses.

Tuesday, December 18, 2007 - Day #12

This morning I could not leave the apartment fast enough for Lexi.  She was ready to get to the center for her workout.  She started off working with Marvia and doing stretches.  Marvia lets Lexi take her shoes off by herself.  Lexi loves to untie her shoes.  Marvia calls her “Lexi pooh”.   Then they put on the suit and did some more stretches. She worked hard but was not very happy.  After her work with Marvia, Lexi and Rafael began working on holding the crawling position.  Lexi was awesome.  I could see a big improvement on her arm strength.  Then they worked in the standing position.  For some reason Lexi did not like this.  The suit was fitted differently than before so it was not as easy as yesterday.  She was standing in front a mirror and a ladder so she could hold on to the ladder for support but she did not always reach for it.  Rafael was teacher her to find her middle when standing.  There were no tears, I think she was  fussing in frustration.  Lexi loves to please others.

Lunch was fun.  We made crowns for everyone.  We did a crown for one of her friends, Hayden, because he took 18 steps by himself. Hayden is 9 years old and is the funniest little boy.  After we finished “King” Hayden’s crown, we decided to make crowns for all the students at NAPA . So between bites, Lexi helped me fold and cut crowns out.  We still have more to do.  Lexi got upset leaving me after lunch.  Think she was having fun making crowns.  Lexi worked on weight lifting.  Her favorite. They put toys above her to help keep her attention and she just loves it.  In the picture attached, you will notice her working on pulling a weight out with her leg.  Working on her outer and inner thigh.  That is hard work!!!  Lexi enjoyed it.  Then Rafael and Lexi played hide-n-seek.  You could hear Lexi counting and telling Rafael “I see you.”  This game made Lexi crawl and work on her arm and leg strength.  If she could play hide-n-seek all day, she would.  After this, they worked on crawling again!!  Not a happy Lexi, again!!  This did not last long, than Lexi got to push the big ball around.  So the day ended with smiles for  Lexi and Rafael.  Another day over.

Hip-hip-hurray!! Lexi!!  Tuesday is over.  Hump day tomorrow (Wednesday), then it is all down hill.   You have been working harder than ever these last two days.  Keep it up, tomorrow could be harder.  You keep on trucking even when lunch is over.  Your sweet attitude and personality helps.  I just loved it this afternoon when you told the therapists “I can show you how to do this exercise.”  It was too sweet.  Boy, you worked out so hard and never gave up.  Your complaining seemed a little louder today, but you jumped right back into the workout.  You are amazing.  Kelli, Trey and Hallie had busy days at school and other activities.  So we only go to talk to Trey briefly.  They all miss you and are ready to get us home.  Keep up the great work.  Your dad is glad to hear your voice each night and loves to hear you working so hard.  It makes us all so happy.  Remember, this therapy is tough but Lexi Kaiser is tougher!

WEEK 3

Monday, December 17, 2007 - Day #11

What a great morning.  Lexi was glad to get to the center.  She told Rafael she was ready to work.   This past weekend we went to Andrew’s for a party.  He had a moonwalk there.  Lexi, Hayden, Brenden and Moorea had a blast in it.  The mom’s worked off their meal in it!!  Anyway, today at NAPA Lexi told everyone Hayden jumped on her.  Not true.  But she gets to laughing and it is hard to correct her.  So that is how the day started off, with lots of giggling.

When she got her suit on she was very still.  Lexi kept her arms down and smiled at me.  I was around a lot today.   I wanted to see exactly what and how they were doing her exercise so we can continue it at home.  So when it was time for her to stand up, she was ready.  Rafael put her on the big ball first.  They rolled forward and backward on her belly with Lexi squealing the whole time.  Then she flipped over to her back.  Again forward and backward and Lexi squealing.  Next were side crunches on both sides.  She did so well, using her tummy muscles and arms.  Rafael and I were veryimpressed.  Last was her favorite thing…walking with the ball.  Lexi did very good.  She just loves walking with the ball.  She does well keeping her head up straight and not crossing her feet.  You could tell in her face how proud she was of herself.

After lunch, she worked on kneeling.  Lexi got to color during this exercise.  She did some standing exercise next.  This helps keep her heel cords stretched.  She and Rafael are face to face and they talk about all sorts of things.  Lexi likes to tell him about Kelli, Trey and Hallie.  She said Hallie cries.  Lexi again did some walking this time in a walker.  I did not see her walking in it but others did and said she did great.  I just saw Rafael getting her to find her center before they started off.  You can see her get frustrated because she just wants to go, go, go!!!  She did!!  At the end of the day, Lexi had to do crawling position.  She complained as usual.   She worked through it.  Rafael told me they pushed her a little more today so it was slightly difficult than Friday.

Lexi, only four more days.  You are doing well.  You and I miss dad, Kelli, Trey and Hallie very much.  This week will be the hardest but before we know, it will be time to go home.   Therapists have told me how much they will miss you and your cute talk.  You have shown what a hard worker you are and your great personality.  Hard work…that is all we ask of you. 

We Love you!!!

Friday, December 14, 2007 - Day #10  

Today, mom is not feeling real well.  Hoping I only ate something bad.  Lexi thought this morning we were going to get our toes done again.  She was not disappointed when I told her we were going to workout.

Towards the end of Lexi’s morning session (11-2), Rafael has her work extra hard.  She does not like this part of the day but she works through it.  She continues to listen to Rafael’s directions and does her best to do the work.  During this time she is crying.  It is “I am mad at you” cry.  You can here her say no, I don’t want to, etc.  Rafael just ignores her.  After, he tells her that she did good and he knew she could do it.  When she came to me for lunch, she was all smiles. Then she started “I want to go home”.  So to distract her, we made pictures for everyone with stickers.  She had a good time.  I was able to feed her than.  Lexi went back to work with no problems.

Afternoon session she giggles and talks.  She has a lot of fun and again works well.  Although today, Lexi got in trouble.  Rafael was working with her in the cage (suit on) in the crawling position.  She was mad.  She wanted to jump with him.  Rafael told her after they finish this workout than they can jump.  Well she kept up the complaining.  So he said she had to give him some side crunches.  Yes, my heart sank hearing this but I was right there; watched everything and there was not a cruel moment.  His voice did not raise, nor was he ugly.  Rafael told her he knew she did not want to do this but he would not ask her to do anything he knew would hurt her.  She did the crunches great!!  Even gave him a smile.  So after that, we worked in the crawl position with Lexi not complaining.  She did excellent and even laughed.  The exercise maybe lasted 3 minutes.  Then they jumped and both were laughing.  She loved it.  When it was time to go, she said bye to Rafael.  Kids jump back so quickly!!!  In fact, she said bye to everyone.  That made my night. 

Lexi, you are an amazing little girl.  Your future looks bright.  Today was tough again, but it is the weekend.  You can rest and have fun.  You deserve it.  We will go to Andrew’s house tomorrow for a party.  He will have a big jumpy there so we can jump til the sun goes down.  You may not be at your goals yet (crawling/walking) but you still have another week to achieve them or not.  Either way, your parents, family and friends are proud.  NAPA is a wonderful place and has helped you in so many ways you do not understand today.  Yet later in life you will.  Only one more week, than you get to go HOME!!!  Kelli misses her best friend “Lexi” she said.  Hallie misses her best friend “mom”.  Dad misses us both and Trey is ready to come to California to pick you up.  Let’s enjoy our weekend.  Your dad and I love you dearly!!!

Wednesday, December 12, 2007 - Day #8  

Today Lexi did well until, mom came around the corner to take a picture and see her work.  The picture taking went well.  You will notice in the picture that she is working with the suit on and walking.  This was difficult for Lexi.  I believe the feeling of the suit made it harder.  For some reason, the right leg did not want to work.  Rafael kept asking her to move the “righty”.  Lexi would not move that leg as far as the left.  We think with the adjustments they made on the suit made it more difficult than she is use to.  So when the suit is removed, maybe the “righty” will move better.  During the time of me taking pictures, Lexi started to complain.  Hoping mom would save her.  So I left; from that time on Lexi complained!!!  When it was lunch time Rafael mentioned she has been upset since when I took the picture.

At lunch, Lexi settled down.  She ate well and opened her mail.   She took some of the stickers she received from her cousins with her when it was time to start therapy again. Lexi had a smile on her face, even with Rafael.  Afternoon session went well.  No tears.  Lexi did some standing.  During this time, she gets to draw and color.  This is her favorite thing to do, these days.  She got tired and did seem stuffy again, but was happy.  I did not take any pictures in the afternoon.

Lexi, today’s journal is short.  You still are working so hard even though you are a bit under the weather.  You get so upset but you know this is helping you.  If you did not you would not even go to the therapist.  Lexi your attitude is great.  Your dad and I are so proud of your continuous hard work.  Your brother and sisters miss you bunches.  You enjoy talking to them on the phone and you tell them you are in California.  Trey even told you today that he, Kelli and Hallie were coming to get you.  Big smile came across her face.  You will be going home real soon. Only seven more days!!!We ALL love you!!!

Tuesday, December 11, 2007 - Day #8  

Lexi started her day off marvelous.  She wore the suit most of the day.  She did high knee (kneeling), walking in the walker and just standing.  Lexi never complained about it today.  She even had it on during her lunch time.   Lexi came to workout with some-what-of a stuffy nose/runny nose but she still worked very hard the therapist said.  During lunch she played ball with one of her friends, Jace.  Jace is 18 months old and doing great.  It was funny to hear Lexi boss him around.  I wonder where she gets that? (Kelli and Hallie) 

I did Pilates today with the other mom’s.  During the hour workout, I was able to see Lexi working in the walker.  She was getting frustrated because she wanted to take off and walk but the therapist did not want that yet.  I believe it is because she does not have the correct position.  I also heard Rafael tell her that she is doing well getting her feet flat to the ground.  I was glad to hear that because they are not asking her to wear her leg braces.  During the time of her working in the walker, I could hear her saying she wanted me.  I went and got her a few minutes later because it was her break/lunch time.  I noticed she was stuffier at lunch time but she kept up a good spirit so I did not worry.  Lexi did her weight lifting after lunch and loved it.  She hits a ball hanging down in front of her to keep her attention.  If she missed the ball, she would say “O-Man.”  I loved to hear it.  The therapist thought Lexi had a messy diaper but it was just smelly.  She seemed very stuffy at that time, so I called it a day for her.  She missed the last hour of her workout.  I thought I would rather miss an hour, than push it and miss a whole day.  We went to the grocery store and got her some soup.  She ate it up.  After her dinner she watched a show, and then told me she was tired.  So she went to bed this evening at 6 pm and probably fell asleep at 6:20pm.  Hopefully, this will make for a good evening and lots of rest for Lexi.

Although your day was cut short, Lexi, you did tremendous.  Your attitude was great and your sweet, polite personality was seen.  You enjoyed talking to your Granna Beverly this morning and of course your dad!!  You do not seem to miss Kelli, Trey and Hallie today but that does not mean you do not.   Unfortunately, we missed Kelli and Trey’s Christmas program at school, but dad and Granna taped it for us to see when we get home.  Dad said they did good and looked cute.  Trey was a little more outgoing than Kelli, but Kelli kept her smile on.  Hallie has become attached to Aunt Pam, so Dad did not get a lot of “Hallie time” during the program.  By the end of the show, she was ready to go with dad. 

We love you, we love you, we love you.  We love you, Kelli, Trey and Hallie.  You ALL make us extremely proud.

WEEK 2
Monday, December 10, 2007 - Day #7  

We had a great weekend with Granna and Papa Fead.  Did not do a lot but enjoy the beautiful view of the mountains.  Lexi was a little under the weather but on Sunday started to feel better.  Papa did take us to see Christmas lights and trees at the Marriott Palm Desert Hotel.  We even saw boats come into this hotel.  Way cool!!!    Lexi and I had lots of fun…thank you Papa and Granna for extending your stay in LA.

Chip’s weekend:  Kelli, Trey and Hallie stayed with Eliza and Ellison Friday night and dad was there early in the morning to take them home.  So they all had a nice relaxing day at home.  Then at about midnight, Chip was woken up by Kelli getting sick.  Bless her heart and Chip’s.  In short, he survived.  He had to wash her sheets but he survived.  Kelli was fine in the morning.  Trey and Hallie did not get sick.  So that was Chip’s first weekend home.

I could not get out of the apartment fast enough for Lexi this AM.  She kept saying “let’s go, let’s go, let’s go mom!”  It was very nice.  She was ready to workout this morning at NAPA.  She showed off her new phone she got in Palm Desert to Rafael.  I heard a lot of giggling from her today.  What a change from last week.  One of the pictures in today’s journal, Lexi is working on getting her arms and shoulders stronger.  While sitting up on her shoulders, she is rolling a ball forward and back.  She is not to let go of the ball.  I was pleased with her determination when doing this exercise.  While Lexi worked out, I took a long walk (3.5miles) with some of the moms today.  We did some window shopping and I got myself and Lexi a sandwich.  No major purchases on this walk!!!  When we got back to the center, I could hear Lexi’s sweet voice so I knew she was having fun.  Then I noticed it was getting closer.  So I came out of the parent’s room and saw her and Rafael walking with the big ball.  The ball got away from her and she said “Mom, can you get us the big ball, please.”  My Lexi is back, I thought to myself.  You do not know the joy I had seeing her sweet personality coming out.  Anyway, Rafael said she walks very well with this ball in front of her.  She is not to push the ball away from her but she is to push it along, keeping her hands on it.  If you notice in the picture, she has the suit on.  It is a full suit.  What I mean by full suit, is it is on her legs, chest, arms and hands.   Some kids cry the whole time it is on them, but Lexi did not seem to mind it.  Lexi just said she was hot.  After working with the ball, it was lunch time.  So she ended on a good note.  During lunch, she got to talk to Kelli, Trey and Hallie.  Attached is a picture of the three of them with Santa last week at school.  This week Kelli and Hallie are with Aunt Pam.  Trey is staying with Aunt Wendy.  So they are having fun with their cousins.  Lexi got to talk to her cousin Addy and Alex also.  She very excited about that.  She made sure she told her therapist!!  Last part of the day, Lexi worked on weight lifting and resistance.  She giggles big time during this workout. 

Lexi, you worked so hard AGAIN.  I am so proud of you and your great attitude.  Your smile today means more to me than you know.  Keep it up.  Dad, Kelli, Trey, Hallie and I love you!!! 

Friday, December 07, 2007 - Day #5  

Today, Lexi did not say two words to me.  She was not a happy girl.  Every time I asked her a questioned she just moaned.  Lexi found out her dad was going home this morning and of course she wanted to go.  She cried some but still mad at mom.  When we got to the center she was still very quite then when Rafael (Rafael and Lexi) came to get her, one big smile came across her face and her arms went out to him.  What a flirt!!!  So Lexi is mad at mom, today.  She worked very well with Rafael.  They crawled without the suit on.  Michelle and she did her neck exercises which Lexi is beginning to ace.  Lunch time came, right when she saw mom, came the pout face.  She wanted to go home.  Lexi and I went out side for some fresh air and to talk…well I did most of the talking.  Then I was able to get half a sandwich in her and juice.  Lexi got a lot of stickers from her cousins, Billy and Betsy.  She brought them to the center today and has shared them with some of her friends.  So during her time of eating, she gave Hayden and Brendan one.  Both boys were much appreciated.  Then Rafael came around the corner to get her and a big smile came out again.  She told him “I got stickers”.  So thank you Billy and Betsy for the awesome stickers, it is keeping a smile on her face.  After lunch, Granna and Papa Fead arrived.  Yeah!!!  Lexi did not see them until after her workout because we were afraid she may not want to finish the day.  But Granna and Papa are able to watch at a distance.  Lexi was a little confused when she saw Granna and Papa but she was very excited to show them her picture she drew.  Then we got in the car and headed off to Palm Desert, CA for the weekend with them.  Our drive was long to Palm Desert, one being that Papa wanted to show Lexi (drive past) Beverly Hills, Brentwood and a small part of Hollywood.  You know what I mean Aunt Wendy and Aunt Pam?!?  Then of course the California traffic!!!  In short, we made it and the place is beautiful.

Kelli, Trey and Hallie are staying with Shelly, Steven, Eliza and Ellison for the night.  I spoke with Shelly and she mentioned she thinks they are getting sad.  But Hallie is becoming Shelly’s buddy.  At Eliza’s house, they have played outside, ate a good dinner and watched “Santa is coming to Town” in their sleeping bags.  All three went to bed at a good time.  Chip made it home safely. Bo and Charlie (the dogs) were very happy to see him.  He will head to Shelly’s house in the morning to pick the kids up.

Well, we ALL have made it through the first week.  Let’s enjoy the weekend, rest and recharge for the new week ahead.  Lexi, you have given 100% to your first “workout”.  That is all your dad and I ask of you.  Now, you only have two more weeks.  You have become stronger in your arms and stomach.  You are learning to sit up by yourself and do perfect tall knee.  There will be more stretching, weight lifting and suit time.  You can do it!!!  It may not be easy but we all are behind you.  We love you, Lexi!!!  Kelli, Trey and Hallie only two more weeks than your Lexi will be home!!  Keep her in your prayers.  As well, we will keep you three in our prayers.  Dad and I love you four dearly!!!

Thursday, December 06, 2007 - Day #4  

Once again the day started off with crying but ended within 5 minutes.  Lexi works very hard the therapists say.  She had the suit on a lot today.  You can tell the suit makes her work even harder, in fact most of the kids/patients here are not fund of the suit.  Rafael had her crawling in it and walking.  Before her lunch break she walked to me and did well not great but good.  Of course, she wanted me and complained but Rafael pushes her…NICELY.  In the picture at left, Lexi and Michelle are working on getting Lexi’s arm stronger so she can crawl.   She does not like to put pressure on them but all the different work they do here has helped her tremendously.  They are teaching her how to sit herself up from a lying down position and I am learning too.  Rafael is very good with her and so is Michelle.  In fact, Michelle and she color a lot when they are working together.  The pictures are for me, dad, Kelli, Trey and Hallie.   At the end of the day, Michelle had Lexi working on her neck muscles. Chip and I noticed we can adapt that exercise very easily at home.  Anyway, my point is that Michelle told us that she has gotten stronger because when she first started this Lexi needed a lot of support and today she only needed the bench.  Chip and I were so proud.

Today, Chip went to lunch with Andrew Gold, the founder of NAPA.  Andrew is a really neat person.  When Chip was at lunch, me and the other moms did a Pilates class.  It was fun and today I am a little sore.  Andrew brings in the Pilates teacher twice a week and once a week we can have 30 minutes FREE messages.  So I am loving it!!!  Chip and I also played Wii again.  He seemed to really enjoy boxing with me…of course he knocked me out!!!  I believe when Chip heads home he will be searching for the game.

Kelli, Trey and Hallie had a good Thursday.  Hallie had gymnastics, which she loves.  Kelli and Trey had school.  This evening Granna and Papa Kaiser took them to see the Lights of Life.  All three of them had fun.

Last, Andrew got us a babysitter so Chip and I could have a night out.  One of the therapists, Kelly, came back with us to the apartment and feed Lexi and put her to bed.  Lexi protested a little bit but Kelly said she was very good.  Chip and I went out to a very nice steak restaurant.  We had a wonderful meal and a great bottle of Merlot wine (can you believe Laura and John, Merlot?) It was so nice.  We/I am going to miss him, he leaves tomorrow AM. 

Lexi, you have worked hard again today.  We know it is hard and you do not understand the reason for all this, but hopefully when the day comes for you to read this journal you will understand and know how proud of you your dad and I am.  Life can be hard at times but with your determination, strength and faith it will be a WALK in the park.  We Love YOU, Kelli, Trey and Hallie!!!! 

Wednesday, December 05, 2007 - Day #3

Lexi had a good nights sleep last night and woke up very happy.  When we told her we were leaving to get some breakfast, she cried.  She said she did not want to go back.  My heart sunk but I knew I had to be strong.  So I just focused on going to breakfast and told her we will be coming back.  She ate well and when we got back to the apartment she played.  Then when time got close for us to leave for the center, I talked to her more about “working out”.  She got quiet and listened.  I told her that I understood it was hard work but in the end they will help her walk.  I mentioned how happy Kelli, Trey and Hallie would be to see her get around. Then when I put her in her wheelchair she said “Mom, I am happy.”  I about cried because then I knew the day would go well.  She went into therapy in good spirits.  I only heard her cry for about 10 minutes.  Then when it came time for stretching, I did not hear anything.  That made me very happy. 

She was in the spider cage today.  This helps her work her stomach muscles.  She had fun doing this. Then they had her stand up.  Again, she had fun and smiled when working on this part.  I was around during this part of the workout and she did not once cry to leave…YEAH!!!!  After the cage, she went and did some standing.  While in this position the therapist has learned that she loves to color so she colors a picture for us.  After standing, she does her weight lifting.  Chip and I were in the parent’s room and we could hear her laughing and talking.  Of course we had to see what she was doing.  It was so cute to see her lying down working her arms out and just laughing, grunting, breathing out, smiling and counting.  She had a great time.  Another great day for Lexi at “workout”.  One of the things I am impressed with is how she is not so grumpy after and has energy to play.

Chip and I are having fun too.  We have been playing WWi at the center.  Chip more than me.  We played tennis, boxing and bowling.  I won BIG time in bowling…yes, I even won using my left hand J.  But he won at the other two games.  Chip even left the center to see if he could find one to buy.  Kelli, Trey and Hallie saw Santa at school this morning.  Beverly took some really good pictures for us.  I was able to speak to the three of them and so was Lexi.  Hearing their voices excites Lexi. 

Another day has come and gone.  Thank you, Lexi for making your dad and me so proud.  You are a champ!!!  And thank you, Kelli, Trey and Hallie for being so good during our time away from you all.  All four of you make us so happy!!!!

Tuesday, December 04, 2007 - Day #2

Lexi’s full day of therapy started off rough.  She cried hard when they were stretching her muscles.  It was very hard to hear but I knew if she saw me she would kick it up a notch.  All the parents said it is what their kids went through too.  Some of them still do it today.  Once the stretching was over the tears stopped.  Lexi then had a great time in her suit.  She looked so cute.  They had her doing the crawl position and for a break during sets, they would fly her around like “Superwomen”.  Her therapist today was Rafael and Michelle.  Now in yesterday’s journal I mentioned her team included Amanda, Trish and Volba.  Well, I think being her first day Rafael worked with her b/c he is one of the top physical therapist. So he can learn most about Lexi then when the team takes over they can ask him for help or advice on how to position her correctly.  In short, Rafael was GREAT!!!  He has a nice voice that is not harsh but encouraging.  She giggled with him a lot.  What a flirt!!!  He pushed her hard but not to misery.  Then she worked on lifting weights with Michelle.  Honestly, she was lifting sand bag weights.  She was able to lift 1 pound weights with her legs.  Everyone there mention that she was too funny.  So I can’t wait to see the video.  They also mentioned how polite she was, even when they were working her hard.  Lexi came to me with a big smile on her face at the end of the day.  So a good day it was!!!!!

I also want to add that Chip and I had a good day too.  We stayed most of the day at the center, being her first day I wanted to stay and watch.  Plus I took some pictures.  We had a nice lunch together and did some more walking along Wilshire Road.  O-yeah!!  No joke, Chip even worked out this morning.  He really did!!.   I talked to parents and Chip spoke to the founder of NAPA.  His name is Andrew Gold.  His resume is very impressive.  He is also a parent of a special needs child so opening this center was a no brainer.  We are completely impressed with NAPA.  Andrew takes great care of the kids and parents.  He has brought a lot of top ranked therapist to LA.  I mean a lot!!!!   Today was so fabulous; I even have a big smile on my face!!!! 

Great job Lexi.  We are so proud of you!!!!

Monday, December 03, 2007 - Lexi’s first day

Lexi made it to California.  She enjoyed her plane ride.  (see large photo) No tears just got a little restless the last 45 minutes.  She did take a nap too!!!  So did mom and dad.  Today Lexi got to meet all her new friends, who will work with her.  She was very pleasant…most of the time.  Her “team” consists of 2 physical therapist (pt) and an occupational therapist (OT).  Their names are Amanda, Volba (he is from Siberia) and Trish.  Small world it is…Trish’s husband use to play rugby at Life.  So Trish and Chip talked about Life and some of the people they know.  During her time at NAPA today, they asked Chip and I a lot of questions about her birth.  You know the new stuff you always talk about when visiting a new doctor. 

Then they had her do some work and she showed off well.  Jacob’s Ladder is a true blessing.  As usually, she got upset when it was time to stretch her heel cords but she worked through it.  Amanda said she can wait to see what she does in two weeks.  I thought that was pretty good.  She also mentioned Lexi has a lot of potential. 

They video taped her today also.  This video tape will allow us to see her before and after progress.  Tomorrow will be her first FULL day.  So it will be interesting.  Can’t wait!!! 

WEEK 1
Sunday, December 02, 2007

Hi to all our family and friends,

Some of you already know and some this is new news to you!!! Today, Chip, Lexi and I are going to LA, California to attend NAPA Institute. NAPA helps thoses (children and adults) who have had some sort of brain injury. Lexi will be attending for three weeks this program. The program includes "therasuit", which is a therapy where the client wears a suit for part of the day to help with the correct posture when standing, crawling and walking.

Our goul is help Lexi get "moving". She really wants to walk. Her days are 6 hours and we (Lexi and I) will be out there for three weeks. For more information about this program go to www.NAPAInstitute.com. Chip will be returning to Atlanta on Friday December 7th and Lexi and I will be coming back December 22. I plan on doing a daily journal of our journey and progress during those weeks and if you are interested you can check the journal on www.Lexisgame.com This trip to California would not be possible with out the support we receive from Lexi's Game golf tournament.

Chip and I want to thank you all so very much for your help, time and contributions you have given to help Lexi become the person she is today and to come.

Many thanks again!!!

Christy
770-402-1985 Cell

feel free to send us an email or letter.

Lexi Kaiser C/O NAPA Institute
11860 Wilshire Boulevard
3rd Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90025

Saturday, December 01, 2007

On December 3, 2007, Lexi will begin an intensive “Therasuit” program in Los Angeles, California.  This program lasts for three weeks and will be 6 hours a day.  She will be at NAPA (Neurological and Physical Abilitation) Institute. www.NAPAInstitute.com

“Therasuit” therapy is an intensive physical and occupational therapy.  During the therapy, Lexi will wear what they call a “space suit”.  On the suit are hooks and bungee like cords.  The therapists will then play with her in a “cage” like space.  This “cage” also has hooks and bungee cords.  They will position her correctly for standing, crawling and walking so she can feel the correct way her body should be when standing, crawling or walking.  Chip and I have been researching this therapy for months.  We talked to couples and even visited a couple and their son who attended the clinic in Los Angeles.  We discussed it with Jacob’s Ladder and had them research this therapy.

Amy (founder of Jacob’s Ladder) thought it sounded likea program Lexi will benefit from.  She will continue at Jacob’s Ladder in the new year.   After much thinking, Chip and I decided to go for it. Our goals for Lexi, while there, are to get her moving!!!  Whether it is crawling or walking.  

Because of “Lexi’s Game”, we are able to do this program.  For those of you who have been a part of this event, we thank you. To find out how she is doing, you can open up “Lexi’s journal”.  We hope to have daily updates and pictures. 
Please keep us all in your prayers.  Lexi’s brother (Trey) and sisters (Kelli and Hallie) will stay in Atlanta with family.  Chip and I are so blessed to have the support we have in all our family and friends.


Feel free to send a note or call us.
cfeadkaiser@yahoo.com/phone
770-402-1985 Christy’s cell

Love to you all,

Christy and Chip