Graduation

Matthew graduated today! Yes, he graduated for the 2nd time in less than 1 year.  His first graduation was at exactly 2 months old when he left the NICU and then today he leaves Hope Orthotics behind and is helmet free. He received a t-shirt that says "I am well rounded because of Hope Orthotics." He was a trooper for the 4 1/2 months that he wore his Super Dave helmet. 

Matthew was fitted with the helmet because he had plagiocephaly, which is characterized by an asymmetrical distortion (flattening of one side) of the skull. This is common in multiples and in preemies. Luckily, there is a solution in the form of a little Starband helmet. Matthew went for monthly checkups to follow his progress. Today he went for the final scan and was discharged. 

Over the 4 1/2 months, Matthew wore the helmet for 23 hours a day. David painted and taped it with the letters SM for "Super Matt." Many people would comment on how cool his helmet was and kids would say that he was a football player. When we would remove the helmet for his 1 hour break, Matthew would rub his head like "yay, I am free!" and now he finally is free!! Now we can kiss his head any time we want to!!