Rolfing to Increase CP Movement

While in Utah this spring, I was introduced to a deep tissue massage called Rolfing. The idea behind Rolfing is that you work an area from the origin of the problem. Rolfing has done a lot to reduce my pain and inflammation, while giving me greater range of motion in problem areas. Although Rolfing was not originally designed for children, I realized that much of Alex's uneven gait and limb difference comes from tight muscles and ligaments, and thought Alex might benefit from it. So, our beloved Sachi, an amazing Rolfer who finds pain where you had no idea pain existed, agreed to give Alex a shot. Alex, like most preemies, does not like massage. He loves hugs, but nothing that rubs his skin. But Sachi, working her magic, eased him into the idea and feeling of Rolfing, and now he can't wait to see her every week. He walks into her studio tight, and walks out very loose and feeling good. She has also taught me how to massage Alex's problem areas and with a little coaxing, he now allows me to give him a massage every night before bed. We work on elongating muscles in his back that shorten his leg length, loosening the areas around his spine which are pulling his spine out of place, and working his arms and hand which continue to be very tight and problematic. There is a visible difference at the end of every massage. Although Rolfing is expensive, it is worth it if you can afford it. For anyone who can not afford professional massage for a child with physical disabilities, slowing and gently introducing your child to your own hands may help. Massage has incredible healing powers. I am amazed at how it improves my body and mind, and continue to be impressed with the results we get with Alex.

Postponing An Ultra

The Grindstone 100 mile race starts tonight at 6pm. I have been training all summer and fall for the race, overcoming training interruptions such as illnesses and Alex's seizures, to get into shape to tackle this monster. On Wednesday, the morning of my departure for the race, Alex woke up having seizures, the first sign that we were all getting sick. One of the many drawbacks to having small children in school is that we spend much of the school year sick. Every year I think we will be less sick, and I plan races during the school year, and yet every year I have to bow out of some of them. Erik, worried that I would be terribly disappointed, graciously offered to tend the kids all weekend and support a 100 mile run, if I felt the need to complete the race plan this weekend. Supportive spouses are very important! But, I'm not disappointed. There are ALWAYS other races. I need to be here with Alex, who takes several days to recover from his seizures, and Izzy, who is also sick and needing her Mommy. I am an ultra distance runner, but I am Mommy first. I may sneak in a rather long trail run this weekend, though. Maybe just 25 miles or so...