Until she headed out to America, Jade Mitchell could look forward to a future in a wheelchair.
But, as reported in yesterday’s Evening Times, after two ops, the eight-year-old from East Kilbride is standing tall.
During five weeks at the St Louis Children’s Hospital, made possible after Evening Times readers helped raise £40,000, mum Pauline kept a diary of the life-changing journey...
Day 1
Saying goodbye to family was difficult and we were worried and excited at the same time. Excited about the difference this could make to Jade’s life and worried if we were doing the right thing.
Day 2
When we arrive in St Louis, I realise I’m 4000 miles from home with my little girl who has a very tough five weeks ahead of her.
Day 3
We met Dr Park for the first consultation. He said Jade would walk with flat feet, run and likely be able to take part in sports activities eventually.
Day 5
Today the hospital had to ensure Jade was in good health and fit for surgery. That night I double checked everything as I wanted everything to run smoothly. I never slept a wink.
Day 6
Jade laughed and joked as the sedatives hit her and she smiled and waved to me as they wheeled her away. I felt my heart sink, what have I done to my baby girl? In recovery, I was just so glad she woke up enough to see me and know I was there. I have no idea if I have done the right thing yet.
Day 7
The medication Jade is on makes her very drowsy. Her eyes look very different and it’s strange seeing her like that.
Day 8
Today Jade is starving and eventually allowed to eat for the first time in days. I let her order everything she wants.
Day 9
Jade’s legs are like little noodles and she can’t stand or take any weight. But she manages a couple of little steps and is very proud of herself. I am bursting with pride.
Day 10
Jade is sitting up in her wheelchair for longer periods and chatting to family and friends on MSN. Discharge day tomorrow worries me. I have been given very careful instructions on Jade’s care requirements but I am scared that I do something wrong. It felt a bit like when I took her home from hospital when she was first born.
Day 12
Jade has been out of hospital for a few days and is still unable to walk. But I can see her hard work paying off. She is so determined!
Day 13
It took a lot for me not to tell Jade that her dad and little sister Erin were flying out to surprise her tonight. Jade was stunned when the door opened and Erin ran in.
Day 14
Jade can’t wait to show off St Louis, so we visit her favourite place the following day, the mall. We spent a very hot Sunday at the zoo.
Day 18
Jade enjoys her dad taking her to therapy for a change and showing off her cute little sister. The week goes in too fast and on Friday dad and Erin leave and we are all alone again. Jade amazes us all in therapy as she walks unaided for 360ft. I can’t hide my excitement, Jade really is a superstar!
Day 25
Dr Park came to visit Jade and was very impressed as she showed off taking steps on flat feet.
Day 26
Jade walked to the train station without her wheelchair.
Day 27
Jade had a setback today when she sprained her ankle.
Day 30
Jade has had a fantastic weekend with friend Gavin and his parents, Tina and Marc.
Day 31
The last big step in Jade’s Journey! The heel cord surgery was very quick and Dr Dobbs called within the hour to let me know it was a complete success and Jade’s range of movement is much better. Jade woke up starving as usual and had me running to the canteen for hotdogs.
Day 32
Jade is discharged from hospital and we meet Gavin and his family to say goodbye. Jade is sore from the surgery and is sad to see her friend leave.
Day 33
Jade got new splints to support her legs and ankles while she regains strength.
Day 34
It’s my birthday today and Jade has plans for us but only after we complete our daily appointments. Dr Park is delighted with the outcome and informs Jade that she will walk, run and even dance eventually. He tells Jade she will be able to wear any shoes she wants next year. She has been desperate for a pretty pair of sandals for as long as I can remember.
Day 35
On her final day of physio, Michael has made her cookies in the shape of little sandals. Her last physio appointment is fun as she spends the time cycling around the hospital grounds causing chaos. We are sad as we say goodbye to everyone.
Day 36
Yippee, we are on our way home! Laura Phillips from British Airways surprises us again by upgrading our already free flights to business class. Jade is getting far too used to this celebrity lifestyle. When we spot everyone at the airport we feel so happy to be home. We have missed Anthony’s second birthday, Erin’s first day at school and Nini and Papa’s 30th anniversary, so we arrange a family night out to celebrate everything. St Louis was a wonderful place and I am looking forward to visiting again when Jade returns next year, but Scotland is home and we are glad to be back.
