Take The Plunge Day 7

I AM WALKING! Yup I actually walked up and down my wheelchair ramp twice. I watched Kate push my wheelchair out to the car without me. I just followed behind. I feel so good.
I got right out of the car and Kate wheeled me into the Y. I am not afraid anymore. Where I used to hesitate before standing up I just go the extra step and let my legs do the standing. I still need handles and rails, but more for balance. When I get into the pool area, I get pushed to the edge of the steps where I stand up and with the rails I walk down the steps. I did not do this the first day. I am getting stronger by the day and lovin it!
I take a quick plunge to get used to the water the its into the whale suit...thats the life jacket I have decided its just too big for me...oh well 4 clicks and I'm in. Now for the fun...I am floating over the steps, no sitting. Kate and Marie put on my LOBOS.  They set them right in place and Marie holds them while Kate straps them on. All nice and snug, they steer me to the deep water...I paddle my arms but I need steering. I have learned the oars are not swim fins. I cannot kick and propell myself foreward, so i paddle and they point me in the right direction. I go to the pool at night so it is not busy. The Lifeguards know me now and watch as I get myself into a vertical position. They dont worry any more when I disappear in to my whale suit...the regulars are interested . They are amazed at what I do and DO NOT HURT the next day. I feel better .  I start to stride  and count . There are clocks all around the pool so I can watch my time. Let me explain this stride I do. My legs are strapped onto these oar looking  things.My knees are imobilized, so I am striding from my core and hips. Once I start it takes a few strides to get a rhythm, then I'm off. Tonight they had music on and it was great...I strided to Dirty Dancing...I Had The Time Of My Life!
The Pool part of this experience is easy .. After the pool time I have to get out of the pool. The first day was just plain scary...there are 5 steps up out of the water. With every step up I get heavier again. My knees are weak. But its getting easier. I do not dread the climb...I am actually letting my legs lift me...wow.
I got out, got showered,got dressed and here I am home. I will be up a few hours, but when I do go to bed I will sleep like a baby I am going to take my measurements tomarrow...I think we are in for a surprise.