Getting around

We are getting around the hospital now that Freya can get in and out of her wheelchair with more ease.  She is now able to stand with support and swivel herself into the chair.  The support she needs from us is more for balance, because she takes all her weight herself indicating the return of strength to her left leg and hip.

The number of places to visit within the hospital is pretty limited, but she has made friends with another young girl in the rehab. unit., Beckie.  Beckie and Freya are only a couple of weeks apart in age and have already formed a bond.  Like most of the other children in the rehab. unit Beckie was involved in a serious car accident and sustained head and spinal injuries.  She is doing well, although it is likely to be another 6 weeks or so before the "halo" that is supporting her spine can be removed. There are only about 6 or 7 children in the rehab. unit and all except for Freya and a 9 year old boy (who had a stroke) are victims of rural car accidents.  Talking to these families, we realise how lucky we are to be local to the RCH with a trip home for us taking 15 minutes.  For these families, home is several hours away, and some have not even been home since the time of their accidents weeks or months ago.

Freya's other favourite place to visit is the RCH Children's Garden which is beautifully designed and maintained by Sarah Baldwin's sister Julie.  Julie is an amazing individual and is famous throughout the hospital for her devotion to the garden and getting the kids involved in gardening activities.  We can't wait for the weather to improve so we can spend more time out there with her, her volunteers and the other children.