Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Horse to His Armor: Kenan’s Stander


Written January 8, 2013

We have been waiting seven long months for this baby to arrive (insurance related). The Stander is probably the most crucial in the prevention of morbidity - something I talked about in an earlier post on his splints. For the first time ever, Kenan gets to experience his body in complete head-to-toe vertical alignment. Based on tolerance, a child can start out flat, parallel with the floor and slowly work their way up over the course of months. This is due, in part, to the heart not being used to pumping blood against gravity which can induce dizziness and nausea. Currently, Kenan is at a 60-degree angle. The Stander allows him to bear weight comfortably, strengthening his muscles and set his joints. Gravity now can affect his vital organs so that they can rest in what’s meant to be their intended alignment. He spends 1-2 hours standing both in he morning and afternoon. There is a mating tray table allowing his hands to rest and providing a surface for activities. He is calmed and comforted by the experience of standing and will often fall asleep. When fully harnessed I can push him around the house (and perhaps outside come spring) giving him the sensation of moving through space upright- a true gift!



Putting them close in height, Tamsen's ability to interact with Kenan has also 
grown with the new apparatus.

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