Ch. 143 - Saturday
 
 
We had a lot of fun last night getting to know Blakely, or Blake, as she prefers. We told her that we are all open books when it comes to our unique lifestyles and to feel free to ask us anything. Blake seemed to be fascinated with Emme, Rebekah, and I with our matching casts and Judy and Collene with their braces, both orthopedic and orthodontic. However, she couldn't keep her eyes off of the completely immobilized Jackie and her tongue-controlled wheelchair. At dinner, Blake intently watched Ben feed his helpless wife.
 
 
After dinner, Stan suggested that we play a bit of a game with Blake. Only Jackie and Rita had told her why they were wearing their braces. Blake was so open-minded and curious about all of our casts and braces that Stan thought it would be fun to have her try and guess which of us were wearing casts or braces for a medical need and which were simply for fun. She got it right about Emme really breaking her wrist by how she wasn't using her left hand at all, but she figured out that Rebekah and I were wearing our casts for fun. With Judy, Collene, and I having withered, atrophied legs, she knew we needed our leg and back braces, but she was taken aback by the reason Judy and I needed ours. She was right most of the time with everyone else, too. It was a fun little game to play.
 
 
Then Blake went around and talked to each of us and asked many detailed questions. She sees many people wearing various braces and casts on a daily basis at work, but she can't ask them any questions except about any special accommodations they might need. We were asked what it was like to wear our braces and casts and why we enjoy wearing them. Blake and Collene had a long conversation about how Collene initially hated her orthodontic braces but grew to love them. Since she was doing so much talking, Blake's lisp began to diminish a bit as she got used to speaking with all the appliances in her mouth; she was beginning to not even think about her orthodontic braces and headgear anymore.
 
 
At one point, when Blake was talking to Rose about her casts and newly applied orthodontic braces, I heard her say, "I have never worn a cast before; I've never had a broken bone, and I have always wondered what wearing a cast is like." Rose replied, "You can find out right now. Pete, Blake wants to wear a cast; please get the supplies." Pete replied, "I'll get them; be back in a wink."
 
 
Pete returned with the supplies, and Ben asked what sort of cast Blake wanted to wear, and she replied, "I would like a short cast like Rose has on her left leg, please." "What color?" questioned Ben. "Purple to match my nails," was Blake's reply. She rolled up her pant leg, took off the high block-heeled hiking boot from her left foot—a boot designed for style, not hiking—and then removed her wool sock. Blake's long, slender toes had their nails polished in a deep purple hue; there was a white flower on her big toe and a silver ring on her second toe.
 
 
Ben explained the casting process and got to work. Very quickly, Blakely was in a perfectly crafted SLWC with a toeplate and one of the tall walking heels that Joel makes. As her cast hardened, she said, "Ooo, this feels so nice. My cast is getting warm; it feels great. Can I get one on my wrist like Rose is wearing on her right arm, but on my left?" Ben said sure, and soon Blake had a purple SATS on her left arm. She then stood up, wiggled her toes, and walked around, saying, "My casts are so comfortable, and my leg cast is easy to walk in; this is great! Let's go up to the lodge so I can show everyone my casts, braces, and headgear."
 
 
Collene asked Blake how she was going to explain her casts to people, and she said, "I sometimes have joint pain, so I will say my casts are for that. My parents live in the same town as you, and I'm going there at the end of next month to visit. I figured I could stop by your shop and get my casts removed before visiting them and taking them to the airport. They're going to Europe, and I'm going to take care of their place while they are gone for a few weeks. Their ranch is out on County Road 2A."
 
 
I said that several of us live on Road 2A and asked her parents' address. Blake replied, "5501", and Collene said, "Your parents are Donna and Dave Santos? They live near us. It will be fun to hang out with you, Blake, and Billy will be more than happy to remove your casts when you arrive." Blake happily said, "That sounds wonderful, and I'll be able to wear my casts until then. You all are the greatest!"
 
 
Several of us accompanied Blake to the main lodge, where she told her co-workers all about getting braces and headgear, along with casts for her joint pain. Everyone was very kind and wished her well with her orthodontic and orthopedic treatments, saying she would fit in well with the guests. All her apprehension about wearing her braces and headgear was diminishing; Blakely was always smiling, showing her braces and very crooked teeth.
 
 
With last night's story told, we made our way to our lodge for breakfast. Everyone was there, with Blake, Collene, and Judy busy in the kitchen. Breakfast was served, and we all discussed our plans for the day. Judy, Collene, Jimmy, and myself were going trap shooting. Jackie wanted to spend time exploring the grounds alone in her braces and tongue-controlled wheelchair. Joel, Paul, Pete, and Jose are going to give the bus a once-over before our trip home. I overheard Blake telling Emme she wanted to try wearing eye patches and experience being blind. We all agreed to meet up again at our lodge at three in the afternoon.
 
 
Judy, Collene, and I wheeled down the shooting range with Jimmy. When we went inside and Collene saw the 'Twenty-Five Straight' plaque on the wall with a tag engraved 'Judy Jenkins-Mekas' and last Saturday's date, it ignited an intense yet friendly sisterly rivalry. I couldn't shoot with my cast, so I just watched. The first round they tied with 24, and the second was 25 straight for both girls. By this point, their backs were painful from only wearing their low-profile Milwaukee braces, but there were two more tags added to the plaque.
 
 
Collene was a bit jealous when she saw Judy's name on the plaque twice; neither sister likes to be surpassed by the other. Jimmy wants them to join the team at his trap club, but their competitive spirit is only between themselves and no one else. With their spines sore, the sisters wanted to change into their more supportive braces, and I wanted to hang out in our lodge.

 
I found Sally, Jose, and Rose in our lodge talking about orthodontics. Sally was discussing what treatment Joe would likely choose for both of them and said, "Well, Jose, your case is rather simple. I think you will only need bonded brackets for about eighteen months. Now, Rose, your case is a bit more complex, borderline where Joe likes to start using bands instead of brackets and other more intrusive appliances. You'll likely need to wear your braces for two to three years, and you'll need headgear and some other appliances, too. Remember, I'm not an orthodontist; Joe will make the decisions with your personal desires in mind."
 
 
Rose replied, "Bands, like everyone else wears? I think I would like that. What do you think, Jose?"
 
 
"Whatever you want, Rosie! Braces like the other girls wear would look so cute on you; there's something so alluring about all that metal. I think I'm starting to have a bit of a thing for girls wearing braces," Jose admitted.
 
 
"My mind is made up, Sally. I want bands like the other girls. They look so cool."
 
 
Sally then said, "OK, Rose, that sounds good. You'll look great wearing them, too. When Pat and Terry get back later, I need to put spacers between their teeth so they can get their braces next week; Pat is getting bands on his molars, and Terry is getting a full set of bands like you desire. Since I put brackets on your teeth, I'll put small springs on your archwires to spread your teeth apart for your bands to fit. You don't need this done, Jose, since you're getting bonded brackets. You two can come in on Thursday afternoon with Pat and Terry. I'll call Joe and let him know to be ready."
 
 
I wished Jose and Rose well on their orthodontic journey; they're both very excited. They are slowly becoming more and more like the rest of us. It was then that we could hear the tapping of Emme's cane on the porch, and the door opened. Emme entered with Blakely following in her casts and wearing eye patches with her right hand on Emme's shoulder. We greeted them, and Emme approached our voices. The girls found chairs and sat down.
 
 
L: It looks like you girls have been out, not seeing the sights.
 
 
B: Yes, Leigh, and it's been a lot of fun. My other senses came alive.
 
 
E: We didn't bump into anything or anyone either, and we managed to stay on the paths, didn't we, Blake?
 
 
B: We sure did. It was a lot of fun, but I'm going to take my patches off now. I want to see again.
 
 
E: Not me! I'm going to stay blind for some time to come. Pete and I are going home with Ben and Jackie so Ben can get some more X-rays of my wrist to be sure everything is OK. We'll stay with them for a few days, then they will bring us home, and Ben will check on Lori to see if she can start wearing her KAFO and get her prosthetic leg fitted. They'll pick up Pat and Terry and take them back home, too. You know that Billy is fitting Pat with new legs next week, and both guys are getting braces on their teeth, too.
 
 
L: Yes, I know. They are staying with Kathy and Lydia, but I didn't' know you were going to stay with Ben and Jackie until you just mentioned it.
 
 
E: Ben wants to check my wrist thoroughly, and that means I get to spend another few days blind, too. I'm really enjoying my contacts, and having this big, heavy cast on my arm along with my braces just adds to the bliss.
 
 
Now here come Pat and Terry through the front door. Pat is in his manual wheelchair without his legs, with Terry pushing his wheelchair, which I have never seen him do. We all say hi, and Sally asks them, "If you guys are ready for a little pain, I can put in your spacers now. Oh, I'll place your springs too, Rose. Who wants to go first?" There was a moment of silence before Pat said, "I'll go first, Sally.
 
 
Pat sat in the recliner that has been a makeshift dental chair, and Sally got to work placing his spacers. When she was done, Pat said, "This sure feels funny, like there is something stuck between my teeth. There is a lot of pressure, but it doesn't really hurt."
 
 
Pat got up, and Terry sat down and reclined the chair. Sally placed his spacers, many more than Pat had received, and he said, "This doesn't feel so good, Sally. These things hurt like hell; the pressure is extremely intense. I guess it's all worth while to make my metallic smile possible." "It will be uncomfortable for a few days, Terry, but you will get used to it," replied Sally.
 
 
Rose then took to the chair and said, "I guess my teeth will hurt too, just like Terry's. It will be a good excuse to eat ice cream and cheesecake for a few days." We all laughed, and Sally got to work in Rose's mouth. Her archwires were removed and then reapplied with small springs between each bracket to do the same job as Pat and Terry's spacers.
 
 
When Sally was done, Rose smiled and ran her tongue across her teeth and said, "This is really uncomfortable, but I sort of like how it feels for some strange reason. I want to see what my smile looks like now." Jose helped Rose to her feet, helped her walk over the mirror with her casted legs, and she said, "Wow! My smile looks so cool with all the metal and these little springs." We all agreed that her smile looked great, and Rose was now more excited than ever to get her bands applied next week.
 
 
Ben and Jackie then arrived, and Ben made drinks for all of us, with the ones for Rose, Pat, and Terry extra strong to dull the pain in their mouths. Over the next hour, everyone else arrived, with Annie and Charlie being the last.
 
 
When they came in and took off their winter coats, they both turned away from us to show the artwork on the back of their shoulder spica Minerva casts. Annie had a scene of a sunrise over a small cabin in the woods with a creek flowing by it. Charlie had a scene with the sun setting over a frozen lake with an ice fishing hut. The artwork reminded us of something that Bob Ross would have painted, but with a bit more detail. Both paintings were beautiful.
 
 
The couple explained that last night they decided to wear their large casts for a full six weeks. Being top management at both their jobs, they don't have to explain their casts to anyone, but they did make up stories; they slipped on the ice and broke their wrists and shoulders, along with Charlie badly spraining his neck and Annie receiving a cervical fracture. I think they will really enjoy their first six weeks as newlyweds in their big, extremely immobilizing casts.
 
 
We all headed to the main lodge for dinner with soft foods for Pat, Terry, and Rose. A quiet evening back at our lodge will round out the evening before we all retire to our cabins. Tomorrow will be our last full day here. We're all sad to be leaving, and we will miss our new friend Blake, but we will be seeing her again soon.
 

Ch. 145 - Goodbye, Kings Mountain
 
 
After receiving the rather cryptic text from Steven, the general manager, Kathy, Rita, and I made our way to the lodge. When we arrived, Steven was waiting and warmly greeted us. He offered us coffee, then showed us to his office, closed the door, and said,
 
 
"Firstly, I wanted to thank you for spending time with Blakely. The second thing is, please call me Stevie; that is what my friends call me, and I consider you friends for what you have done for Blake."
 
 
"I have known Blake for seven years now, and we are like brother and sister. Blake loves the mountains and started working here in the summers while going to college. Blake is very shy, easily shaken, and embarrassed about her crooked teeth; she hardly ever smiled. Since she likes to be alone, Blake does accounting and reservations. After she got her business degree, I hired her full-time, and she lives in a little cottage just outside town. However, she often stays here in staff accommodations if the weather is bad; she doesn't like driving in the snow. Blake is always here early and stays late, taking long walks in the woods or a rowboat out on the lake."
 
 
"Despite being so shy and self-conscious, Blake likes people, but her bad teeth make her very uncomfortable. She's the girl off by herself at a party, just watching people. One day, we had a sudden snowstorm, and several busloads of guests got through before the road was closed. We were shorthanded, and I asked Blake to work the front desk. She seemed to really enjoy it, but she never smiled because of her crooked teeth. As time went on, her bad bite started to cause her to have jaw pain; something had to be done."
 
 
"I encouraged her to see an orthodontist since braces are covered by our benefit package. I went with her to visit several orthodontists, and she finally decided on a doctor to receive treatment from. Everyone in the office was wearing some sort of orthodontic appliance, including the orthodontist herself, who was wearing headgear like Leigh's. I even had a consultation, and I am getting braces next week, but nothing as elaborate as Blake has to wear. I wish my case was as complicated as hers, so I would need the same appliances. Blake would find that comforting, but you ladies have done that for her."
 
 
"So last week, Blakely finally got braces. She should have had them as a kid, but she refused, and her parents didn't force her—a decision she regrets now. I couldn't go with her to her appointment; we had a surprise inspection from the fire marshal. I felt so bad she had to face the orthodontist alone, and after her appointment, she sent me a picture of her wearing her new appliances. It was obvious she had been crying."
 
 
"I called Blake, and I could hardly understand her because of her lisp. She said the orthodontist told her to wear her headgear as close to 24 hours a day as possible instead of the twelve hours a day originally planned during her consultation. She was also told her treatment would take longer than initially anticipated, with several years in headgear. Blake was devastated. However, with her jaw pain becoming unbearable, she has to have treatment, no matter what it entails. She told me she was quitting her job and moving back home with her parents."
 
 
"I visited her that evening. All she did was cry, and I couldn't console her. I stayed the night at her place on the couch, and I could hear her crying all night in her bedroom. The next morning, she had calmed down a bit and was hungry, but her teeth hurt so much that there was nothing in the kitchen she could eat, and tears once again flowed. She finally settled down, and I went to the store and got her very soft foods to eat. When I returned, Blake felt a bit better, but she said she never wanted to leave her house again."
 
 
"When your group arrived and a bus trip was offered, I sent Blake a picture of the bus and asked if she wanted to join us; she said no. I visited her the night before the trip and talked her into going, but she said she was going to hide her face. I told her that no one really cares if a girl has to wear braces, and I reminded her of the various things we see our guests wearing. I told her I would pick her up; I didn't want to give her the opportunity to back out. Blake needed to get out and face the world."
 
 
"I noticed that as Blake got on the bus, she took a long look at Rita, wearing headgear just like hers, before taking a seat alone. Then Rita sat down next to her, and that is when everything began to change. It was the first time I saw Blake smile since getting her braces, and the first time I've ever seen her smile that wide. After seeing how much she enjoyed her day with all of you, I told her to spend the weekend with you, too."
 
 
"I never expected to see Blake wearing casts later in the evening, and she seemed happier than I had ever seen her before. Then I remembered something that happened at several of our first aid classes. In the classes, we were practicing applying bandages for sprains and splints for fractures. During one of the classes, Blake's left wrist was bandaged, and her arm was put in a sling. After the class, Blake continued to wear the bandage and sling for about a week until co-workers teased her about it. Another time, she had her ankle wrapped up and used crutches for a week or so. During these times, she volunteered to work the front desk and did so with a smile. Her bandaged wrist or ankle seemed to comfort her, and she said she had always dreamed of wearing a cast."
 
 
"I know Blake is going to wear her casts until she comes to visit you. I worry that when she gets her casts removed, she will go back to her old self, and I wanted to let you know this might happen. Please call me if Blake has any issues; she doesn't have many friends, and I worry about her."
 
 
Rita said, "Don't worry, Stevie; we'll look after her; I think she will do fine. If Blake needs something to distract her from her braces and headgear, I think we can come up with something." Kathy and I reassured Stevie and said we would keep in touch with him during Blake's visit.
 
 
Stevie said, "Thank you so much. I worry so much about her, and I know she lives a very lonely life; her job is her only real contact with people, and I would hate to see her quit and move away. By the way, for what you are doing for Blake, your stay here is on the house. It's the very least I can do after seeing Blake so happy and smiling like she is now."
 
 
We were all touched by the story of Blakely's life, and I assured Stevie we would do all we could for her. We asked him to join us for dinner, and he accepted. Kathy called Lydia and said that everything was in order and we would be waiting for everyone by the fireplace. While waiting, I briefly told Stevie the story of Emme and how wearing casts and a halo brace helped her cope with a traumatic event in her life (Chapter 84).
 
 
Once everyone arrived, we had a wonderful dinner together. It was hilarious watching Sam feed Millie. They made a bit of a mess, but finally Millie's belly was full, pressing firmly against her brace. After we ate, we went back to our lodge and spent time reminiscing about the events of the past week. Since it was a clear night, we went outside to stargaze for a while, too. We all really like Blake and enjoy her company. It will be great to spend more time with her when she visits us.
 
 
It was getting late, and all of us wanted to spend a final romantic evening with our spouses, so we all retired to our cabins. Sam and Millie were the first to go, excited to have some fun with Millie in her extremely immobilizing brace. Before they left, Ben showed Sam how to release and lock the joints on Millie's brace and how the hip joints can be locked with her legs spread, like the casts Rebekah and I are wearing. The girls then excitedly rushed to their cabin for some fun and romance.
 
 
The next morning, we all got up early for breakfast and to say goodbye to Blake. Today is her first day back to work after getting her braces and recreational SATS and SLWC. She looked so cute in her red Kings Mountain Retreat flannel shirt, a pair of jeans, which she had cut off just above her leg cast, and her high-heeled boot on her right foot. Blake's long, dirty blond hair was in a ponytail, and she made no attempt to hide her reverse-pull headgear. Blake had a look of confidence and held her head high—a complete change from the young woman we met a few days ago. We had our meal, then finalized the details of Blake's visit, and she headed off to the main lodge to begin her first braced and casted day of work.
 
 
We then went to our cabins to pack the last of our things before heading home. Paul and Joel, who were still in their KAFOs and Milwaukee braces, helped Pete check over the bus before departing. Rebekah and I were proud of our guys; not only did they get used to wearing their braces rather quickly, they really enjoy them and want to wear them often. I also got the impression that Billy and Jimmy were planning to do the same. We have seen several other couples around the resort that were wearing identical or near identical braces or prosthetics, and they really looked good. 
 
 
Finally, we were ready to depart. Millie, in her brace, and Rebekah, in her Petrie cast, had to be carried to their seats on the bus. Kathy and I gathered up everyone's resort phones and headed to the main lodge to turn them in and check out. We entered through a side door and could see Blake standing at the front desk typing away on the computer, but she didn't notice us enter.
 
 
It was then that a couple in their late 50s came in the main door. The woman, who had only her right leg, was on crutches. She was very beautiful and dressed elegantly in a blue dress, with a very high-heeled over-the-knee boot on her right leg and the stump of her left leg just barely visible below the hem of her dress. They approached Blake at the front desk:
 
 
"Good morning! Welcome to Kings Mountain Retreat. I'm Blakely. How can I help you on this fine morning?" Blake said with a smile.
 
 
"We are fine and very happy to be here." The woman said, also smiling.
 
 
"Good morning, Blakely. We're the Wards, Bob and Carol; we have a reservation." Bob said in a deep voice.
 
 
Blakely checked the computer, got the couple their phones, and explained how to use them. A bellman was called to get their bags. Blake was cheerful and smiling the entire time, seeming to totally ignore her casts, braces, headgear, and horrible lisp. The couple had to ask Blake to repeat many things because of her lisp, but they were very understanding of her situation. Something that Kathy and I both noticed was Blake's posture; we are certain she has scoliosis, and it's rather severe; I don't know why we didn't notice earlier. As the couple began to walk and crutch away, Carol turned to Blake and said, "You're so brave, Blakely, to wear your headgear to work. I think that would be harder than my first day back to work after I lost my leg."

 
"I've only had my braces and headgear for just over a week, and I hated it at first and never left my house. Then a friend got me to go on an outing where I met some wonderful new friends, and they made me feel really good about my braces and headgear. In fact, I love my braces and headgear now, and I think I look cute wearing them, too." Blake happily replied.
 
 
"Well, you do look lovely, dear. It must be even harder for you with that cast on your arm, but the artwork is beautiful." Carol compliments Blakey.
 
 
"Thank you. I did it myself, along with a cast my friend Emme is wearing. Oh, let me show you the cast on my leg; I decorated it, too." Blake stepped out from behind the desk and held up her left leg to show off her walking cast. "It's so pretty, isn't it, and very comfortable to wear."
 
 
"Your casts look great, Blakely. When I had casts after my accident, I wished I had someone like you to decorate them. It would have made me feel so much better." Carol says, with a hint of sadness.
 
 
It was then that the bellman arrived to get the couple's bags, and they headed to their room. We made our way to the desk, and Blake collected our phones and got us checked out. She expressed excitement about her upcoming visit and about getting to wear her casts in the coming weeks. She thanked us for everything and gave us both big hugs. As we went out the door, we turned and waved at Blake, and she returned the gesture with her casted left arm.
 
 
The bus was waiting for us outside with Stan driving since Pete and Emme went home with Ben and Jackie. Ben wants a couple more X-rays of her wrist to be sure everything is OK. Emme still has her contacts in and has been blind for almost two weeks. They will be coming home later in the week when Ben comes to check on Lori.
 
 
Pat and Terry are coming along with us since they are both getting orthodontic braces this week, and Pat is getting new legs too. This coming week will be very busy, and it will be great to see our friends getting orthodontic braces. Remember that Jose, Rose, and Pete are visiting the orthodontist as well.
 
 
It will be great to see Lori again; we all miss her, and I know she really misses us from her texts. However, it's also sad to leave Blake, but we'll see her again soon.

Ch. 147 - A Day With Lori
 
 
"So what do you want to do today, Lori?" Judy asks.

 
"Several things, Judy. I need to buy some shoes to wear with my brace and new leg. Billy told me you ladies could help me choose shoes that would work well. Since I will be in my halo brace for quite some time, I need to get some clothes that fit over it better. Finally, I want to take you ladies out for lunch." Lori cheerfully replied.
 
 
Rebekah said, "Sounds like fun, a day of shopping; it's what us girls do best!"
 
 
We all wheeled, and Judy crutched out to our little limo bus. We got on, and Judy secured our wheelchairs for us, then she climbed into the driver's seat. On the way to the mall, Judy asked Lori, "How can you try on shoes while you're still in your cast?" Lori's answer was simple: "I know what size I take in several brands and will take the chance they will still fit my foot. When Scotty packed us up to move, I just had him donate all my shoes. I thought I would never walk again, but I was wrong; I will walk again very soon."
 
 
Then all of our phones beeped, and we saw there was a message from Pete:
 
 
"Hi there! Emme wanted me to let you all know that her wrist is doing well. Ben took X-rays, and her fractures are looking very good. She will need to wear her current cast for six weeks, then get a fresh one just like it for another six weeks. After that, she'll possibly need a SATS for a few weeks, too. So, Leigh and Rebekah, it looks like if you stand by your word, you'll be in casts for at least twelve weeks, maybe longer! Ben and Jackie will bring us home tomorrow, and they'll stay for a few days and check on Lori. Oh, Emme is still blind, too; she loves her special contacts."
 
 
R: Shit, Leigh, our arms will be in big, heavy casts for at least a quarter of a year if we stick with it.
 
 
L: I'm standing by my word to Emme; I'm wearing the same casts she has to for as long as she has to.
 
 
R: I guess I will, too. My word is my word, but it's sure going to be tough.
 
 
L: It will, but we'll be back on our feet when our casts are fully dry, then we can use platform crutches. But why are you so worried, Rebekah? You can still walk without crutches, can't you, Rebekah?"
 
 
R: Well, not so easily anymore; my legs are becoming quite weak. I can only walk a short distance without my braces and crutches. I barely make it to the bathroom at night. Like Rita, I never intended for it to happen; however, I've done nothing to prevent it either.
 
 
Judy excitedly said:
 
 
J: You're letting go of your legs too, Rebekah? That's great!
 
 
R: I don't know Judy. Paul doesn't know how weak my legs have become; I always wear my braces around him. I need to think about things and figure out what I want to do. We'll talk about it later; today is all about Lori.
 
 
We were all in a bit of disbelief at what Rebakah had just told us. Some time ago, Bekah mentioned that she someday might do what Judy and I have done, but she hasn't mentioned it lately. I think we are all curious, but Rebekah doesn't want to talk about it right now. We all sat in awkward silence for a few minutes before Judy pulled into the lot at the mall and said, "We're here, girls!"
 
 
Once at the mall, Judy got us off the bus, and we headed inside. Lori was not familiar with the mall but had checked online to see what stores were there. All eyes were upon us as we made our way inside the mall and to the Clark's shoe store.
 
 
Since all of us girls know about choosing shoes for our braces, we helped Lori pick out several pairs. Her choices were Orianna Derby and Talene Ave, both in black. They should work well with her KAFO and prosthetic leg, and Billy is used to working with the brand.
 
 
The next stop was the Doc Marten store, a place I visit often. Billy and Gary like working with their shoes and boots, and I have grown to love their chunky sandals. We had a great time looking at shoes, and Lori picked out a pair of Mary Janes with cute little perforations in the leather. She also chose a pair of Blaire Hardware lace-up sandals, which should work really well with her KAFO and prosthetic. We all really liked the style, and spring will soon be upon us, so we all bought a pair. I also got a pair for Emme, and Judy got a pair for Collene. They're really cute in a funky kind of way.
 
 
At this point, we were getting hungry and decided to wheel across the parking lot to the Texas Roadhouse since Lori wanted a steak for lunch today. It was quite a ways away across the parking lot, but Judy had no problem crutching the long distance. When we arrived, we got a table and ordered drinks and our meals. Soon, our food was served: grilled shrimp for Rebakah and me, a burger for Judy, and a ribeye steak for Lori.
 
 
Seeing that Lori couldn't cut her steak on her own, Judy turned to her, smiled, showing off her braces, and gently said, "Please, let me," as she picked up Lori's knife and fork. Lori smiled and said, "Thank you, Judy. You're so kind." It was the first time we had seen her crooked smile today. Judy cut the large steak into bite-sized pieces and slid the plate in front of Lori. Judy sure knows how to assist someone without making them feel helpless. We enjoyed our lunch and were soon on our way to do some more shopping.
 
 
Lori wanted to get some clothing that would be comfortable to wear with her halo brace, leg brace, and prosthetic leg. On the trek back to the mall, we shared with her what styles we have found that work the best when wearing various braces and casts. Lori said before her accident that she mostly wore jeans or shorts and t-shirts to work, and she only had a few dressy outfits. We all told her skirts and dresses were the easiest to wear; pants and shorts are hard to get on over leg braces and uncomfortable to wear under braces. We also suggested that since her halo CTLSO covers her breasts, just some loose-fitting sweaters and jackets would be the most comfortable things to wear, and with spring and warm weather coming, she wouldn't want to wear anything at all over her halo CTLSO jacket.
 
 
Once we were back at the mall, we headed to the clothing store where Jane works. Do you remember Jane? She's a lady a bit older than me with jaw problems who was wired shut for quite severe TMJ. Anyway, when we got to her store, Jane no longer had her jaw wired shut; however, she had bands on all her teeth and pink interlandi headgear with a thick upper facebow. She also had a heavy lisp; her speech was extremely difficult to understand. Jane apologized for her slurred speech, saying that she just got her palatal expanders placed last week. She asked about the casts that Rebekah and I are wearing and then politely inquired about Lori's situation. Lori spoke of her accident and the fact that she would be getting orthodontic braces soon, too. Jane then told us about her orthodontic treatment.
 
 
"I think that last time I saw you, Leigh, I was still wired shut. When I got my wires and archbars off, Dr. Joe applied my bands. I knew that after getting my braces, he would be placing a splint in my mouth and wiring me shut again for another month or so to position my jaw correctly. When I got the splint removed, Joe had a different splint for me to wear for ten hours every night with heavy elastics; it's like I'm still wired shut. He also had me start wearing headgear for the other fourteen hours a day, which means I have to wear it at work. It was hard at first, but I'm used to my braces now. I also get a lot of positive comments from people about how I'm taking care of my teeth. In fact, I really like my braces and headgear; they make me look so much younger. My husband says I look really cute wearing them, too."
 
 
"Now here's the kicker: My daughter Jill and granddaughter JJ got braces too, and theirs are exactly like mine! They could have gotten bonded brackets, but they chose full bands like I have to wear. Both of them have similar bite issues to mine and decided they wanted to be proactive and get treatment earlier in life. Jill and JJ are lucky; they don't have to wear splints, but they do have expanders and must wear their headgear 24/7. They'll only be in their braces for about three years, while I'll be in mine for at least five."
 
 
"JJ is doing well at college with her braces; no one seems to care, and she even has a boyfriend now. Jill is the one who surprises me with how well she is doing with her orthodontic treatment. She is an executive at a logistics company and deals with new clients. Her first impression must stun people when they see her teeth covered in metal, the headgear straps around her head, and they hear her lisp. It's been easy for me; I'm just an older lady working retail to be around people until my husband retires. However, Jill is the face of her company, and someone with orthodontic treatment like hers at her age is very unusual; however, she thinks her orthodontics have actually helped business. Several prospects she has been courting immediately signed contracts the first time they saw her wearing braces and headgear. Jill, JJ, and myself think that braces have a magical effect on many men."
 
 
All of us wearing orthodontic braces agreed, and Lori said she wonders if Scotty will be attracted to her braces when she gets them. Judy and I laughed and said he definitely would; we often notice him looking intently at our metallic smiles. Lori laughed and said, "I hope he does! I'm excited to get braces and all the appliances Joe says I'll need."
 
 
We all helped Lori pick out some stylish outfits that would work well with her back and leg braces. She's heavy on denim, picking out many skirts in different lengths, mostly dark blue but some black and stonewashed, too. She also chose several sweaters that she could wear over her halo brace. Finally, Jane helped Lori select a dark maroon strapless evening gown that fit perfectly with her halo brace. She's very excited to wear it for a night out with Scotty once she is walking again. The rest of us couldn't resist and picked out some new outfits, too. We made our purchases, and Jane said she would box everything up and drop it by the shop on her way home; it's on her way. We thanked Lori for her kindness and wished her and her family well with their orthodontic journeys. Jane gave us all hugs and thanked me for the kind words I spoke when she was first wired shut.
 
 
I could tell Lori was getting tired, so I suggested we be on our way. Lori asked if she could see our homes, and then Scott could pick her up there. Rebekah suggested that we all have dinner together, and the guys could pick something up on their way home. That was a great idea, so we made calls to our husbands, and Judy called Collene and asked her and Billy to join us.  
 
 
We made our way out to the bus, and Judy helped us get situated. It's amazing how easily she gets around on crutches and how much she can do. Same with Collene; their braces don't slow them down one bit.
 
 
Lori was impressed with my home and how accessible everything is. I decided to go out on a limb and let her see our cast room. Lori didn't know what to think of it at first but then said, "This is really cool! I know that you girls like wearing casts for fun, and I have to admit that I sort of like the one I really need to wear. It's strange, but wearing the casts and braces hasn't really bothered me, and in fact, I find them comforting. Even having my jaw wired shut brought me comfort that was more than just knowing my wires were helping me to heal. I don't know; I have some strange feelings about my situation—none of them unpleasant—and even losing my hand and leg hasn't really bothered me; it's like this is how I was always meant to be. Wow, this is getting really weird... Let's go see Judy's place."
 
 
We made our way down to Judy and Jimmy's place, and Lori really liked the wooded setting and said how lucky Judy is to live there. She was equally impressed with the cottage; it's small but not at all cramped, even with its fully accessible design. We then went down to Paul and Rebekah's, where once again Lori was impressed. Rebekah said that Scotty had stopped by to see all the houses to get ideas for the renovations he had done to their home. We took a few minutes to relax, and I got a text from Joel saying that he and the guys were on their way home with dinner. Joel also said that a lady wearing full bands and headgear stopped by the shop and left packages for all of us, too. I said that was our friend Jane, and I would tell him her story later.
 
 
We made our way back to my place and enjoyed our Chinese dinner. After we ate, we gave Billy the shoes we purchased to be modified for our braces. Billy and Collene then took Lori and Scotty to see their home. As they were leaving, I said Rebekah and I would see them all tomorrow at the orthotics shop when Lori's cast is removed and her KAFO is fitted. Tomorrow will be another milestone in Lori's recovery.
 

Ch. 149 - At the Orthodontist
 
 
We had a wonderful evening last night at Harry's Grill. Joel and Paul invited Rose and Jose to come along, too. They are definitely into orthodontics and are getting braces to treat real bite issues, as well as some extras just for fun. Rose and Jose, along with Pat and Terry, had their teeth scanned on Tuesday, and Joe is making their appliances. Judy and I will find out what they are getting when we accompany them to their appointments.
 
 
Rebekah and I have become used to the heavy plaster casts we are wearing. With my thumb immobilized along with my index and middle fingers, my hand is pretty much completely useless, and I love it. There is so much I can't do, and that includes putting on and taking off my braces. Joel has to help me with everything, and I can't believe how this cast has affected my life. Rebekah and I could have our casts removed at any time; we are just wearing them to support Emme, but she must wear hers for many long weeks to come, and will we, too. I'm going to try using a platform crutch today with my casted arm and try walking.
 
 
Jimmy and Judy came by for breakfast as usual this morning, and Judy was really excited about our friends getting orthodontic braces today. After we had breakfast, the guys went to the shop, and Judy and I headed off to the orthodontist. On our way, we got a text from Pete asking if we all wanted to go to Rancho Gordo for dinner, then get together at their place to look at pictures from the trip. Emme wants to go out blind one last time, then remove her contacts in the evening; she has been blind for almost three weeks. Of course, we accepted the offer, and I also saw responses from Joel, Rebekah, and Collene. Emme will get to see the artwork on her cast and pictures of Blake for the first time; she has no idea what her new friend looks like.
 
 
When we arrived at Robbins Orthodontics, Pat and Terry were in the waiting room. Sally soon appeared, still wearing her hot pink Minerva cast, and took us all to the procedure room with two chairs. Pat and Terry took their places in the chairs, and Judy and I sat in the corner, with Judy helping me with my platform crutch. Joe then entered the room with an assistant we had not seen before. He introduced his wife, Mary, and said that she was assisting so Sally could wear her Minerva cast for a few weeks. Joe then said, "OK guys, let's get you in braces!"
 
 
Ben and Mary got to work cleaning the guys teeth and gave them a final examination. Starting with Pat, Joe got to work placing his molar bands. Once these were in place, the Roth brackets were bonded to the rest of his teeth. His archwires were put in place and tied to his brackets with blue ligatures. Finally, several surgical hooks were crimped in place on his archwires. They were not too visible unless Pat smiled wide. The process went very quickly, and Pat looked great with his traditional metal brackets. Now, time for the extras that are just for pleasure and are completely inactive.
 
 
Joe picked up several removable appliances from the nearby counter. The two surgical splints, one thin and one very thick, were trial-fitted. The large one held his mouth open very wide and had an oval hole between his front teeth for drinking and a liquid diet. Then Joe fitted a facebow to Pat's upper arch and adjusted the cervical strap. Finally, lip bumpers, upper and lower, were trial-fitted along with blue reverse-pull headgear. After everything was checked out, Joe asked which appliances he wanted to wear for the rest of the day. Pat chose his lower lip bumper and upper reverse-pull headgear. Joe put the appliances in place and said, "There you go, my friend. All done." Pat, with a slight lisp, thanked Joe as his chair was raised. Terry sat in silence the entire time, intently watching, knowing he would soon be getting much more placed in his mouth.
 
 
Joe's attention has now turned to Terry. His chair was reclined as Pat quietly watched. Terry had not told Pat anything about what appliances he would be getting today. The first thing to go into Terry's mouth was his lower expander. It was a very bulky device with four bands attached to it, with the screw in front like mine. The device was trial-fitted, and as always with Joe's work, it was perfect, so it was cemented in place.
 
 
Then Terry's upper appliance was fitted—a very bulky, older-style expander like I wear. It had a tongue crib, and unlike mine, this one looked like a torture device. It was connected to the bands with very heavy wire and an oval loop in the front. The loop had vertical bars with small, sharp spikes welded to them. The appliance was fitted to Terry's upper arch, and then the rest of his bands were applied. Finally, his archwires were placed, secured with wire ligatures, and surgical hooks were placed between each band. Joe then had Terry get up and rinse his mouth.
 
 
After he rinsed, Terry tried to speak, and we couldn't understand a thing he said. His speech was garbled, and he would wince when his tongue contacted the sharp spike behind his front teeth. Sally handed him a pad and pencil, and Terry wrote, "This is pure hell. I absolutely love it!" He returned to the chair, and Joe reclined it and proceeded to fit the same removable appliances as Pat received. Once everything had been trial fitted, Joe asked Terry what he would enjoy wearing out of the office today. Pat, using paper and pencil, said, "Put the big splint in and wire me shut. It's been a dream of mine to be splinted and wired after a friend's wife had jaw surgery several years ago. It's not like I'm going to be eating solid food for a while anyway with all this in my mouth."
 
 
Joe complied and wired Terry's jaw shut around the large splint. Joe raised the chair and said, "OK, Terry, it's all done. I hope you and Pat enjoy all your new hardware." Pat gazed dreamily at his husband, with his mouth full of plastic, metal, and loops of wire, then finally said, "A dream come true for both of us, Terry! I remember when Bev had her surgery and how we were both fascinated by her splint and wires. I always dreamed of you being wired shut like that, and now you are." The two men embraced and expressed their love for each other. They thanked Joe, Mary, and Sally and were on their way, likely off for a romantic afternoon together.
 
 
With Rose and Jose's appointment several hours off, Judy and I decided to go see how Billy and Rita were doing with making Lori and Pat's sockets for their new prosthetics. When we arrived, Billy had made Lori's arm socket and Rita the one for her leg, and they were now working on Pat's.

 
"So what did Pat and Terry have done at the orthodontist?" Rita asks.

 
"Terry got the works! He got his jaw wired shut around a big splint. Between that and all he has inside his mouth, he can't speak at all. It's really cool!" Judy eagerly explained.

 
"Pat just got molar bands and brackets, but both men have a wide array of removable appliances to wear as they please." I explain.
 
 
Our attention now turned to the work that Billy and Rita were doing. They explained how the sockets work in conjunction with a sleeve that fits on the limb to hold the prosthetics in place. It is all very interesting, and I wish I had asked Pat more about his legs while we were on our trip. I guess tomorrow I'll learn everything there is to know about wearing prosthetics when Lori learns about hers.
 
 
Collene then entered the workshop and asked Judy and me to stay for lunch. She had chicken tortilla soup going in the crock pot, and it was almost ready. We enjoyed our lunch and then watched Gary do some initial programming for all the limbs that will be fitted tomorrow. Time flew by, and it's time for Rose and Jose's orthodontic appointment.
 
 
When we returned to the orthodontic clinic, Jose and Rose had just arrived, and Sally was explaining that she planned to wear her Minerva cast for two months. Both were impressed that she was going to wear such an immobilizing cast for that long simply for pleasure. Sally then led us to the room where Pat and Terry got their braces a few hours ago, and the couple sat down in the chairs. Sally then confirmed a few details about their treatment. There was a knock on the door, and Joe and Mary entered the room. Pleasantries were exchanged, and Joe said, "Let's get you two braced up. Your braces are pretty basic, Jose, so let's start with you. Those spacers should have opened up the gaps enough by now."
 
 
Jose's chair was reclined, and Joe and Mary got to work. His temporary braces were removed, his teeth were cleaned and polished, and then Joe placed Jose's molar bands. Working with great efficiency, Joe and Mary got all of Jose's bonded brackets in place; they sure work quick. Then his archwires were placed and secured with silver ligatures. Finally, several surgical hooks were placed on Jose's archwires. The entire procedure didn't take long at all, and Joe said, "Almost done, Jose. We just need to fit the removable appliances that you and Rose requested that are just for fun."
 
 
Sally brought over a tray with an assortment of removable appliances, many of which were like what Pat and Terry got. The only things that were different were that there was a removable tongue crib and all of Jose's splints were dark blue instead of clear. The fit of all of the appliances was checked, and all was good. Joe then said, "All done, Jose. I hope you enjoy your braces and all the little extras you requested. If you are anything like your friends, I know you will love wearing braces." The chair was raised, and Jose said with a slight lisp, "Thanks, Joe. Everything feels great, but it will take some time to get used to it all, and it's nothing like what Rosie will have to learn to live with. So what do you think of your braced husband, Rosie?"
 
 
"You look so cute, Jose," replied Rose. "I'm so lucky to have you, and we are having so much fun trying new and exciting things together. I'm so glad we are doing this; it's so thrilling!"
 
 
Joe now reclined Rose's chair, and he and Mary got to work removing her temporary appliances. Rose is getting similar appliances to what Terry got, but her large tongue crib doesn't have spikes. Joe first fitted her upper tongue crib and expander, a fan type that looks rather bulky. Her tongue crib could easily be seen behind her upper front teeth, not leaving much room for her to eat. Her upper expander is just for pleasure and will not be used, but her lower one is therapeutic. Joe placed Rose's lower expander, a quad helix style, and I think it looks to be more uncomfortable than mine with the screw behind my front teeth, but maybe that's what Rose desires.
 
 
With all of Rose's fixed appliances in place, Mary and Joe began to fit her remaining bands. This went fairly quickly, as Joe is very adept at applying bands since about half of his patients wear full bands these days. Once her bands were in place, heavy archwires were tied to her bands with wire ligatures. Finally, surgical hooks were crimped on her archwires between each band. All of us with a special interest in orthodontics get hooks for a bit of fun, whether it's just elastics for an evening or being wired for weeks on end. Rose is now fully banded with a mouthful of metal, just like almost all her friends, and she looks great!
 
 
Joe then began to check the fit of all of Rose's removable appliances and adjusted her facebows. Everything she got was pretty much the same as Jose's appliances, but there was no removable tongue crib since she has one permanently in place. The only other difference is that all of Rose's splints are hot pink in color, matching her headgear. When the large surgical splint was fitted in Rose's mouth, she looked amazing. Her lips were parted, and the bright color contrasted with her olive complexion. I turned to Sally and asked if I could get splints in purple, and if so, to expect all the other girls to want colored ones also. Sally replied with a smile, "Sure, Leigh, no problem. You sure would look great in your pink and purple braces with your jaw wired shut around a big purple splint." I had to agree.
 
 
Rose's chair was raised, and Jose got his first good look at his banded wife and said, "You look amazing, Rose! Your smile is mesmerizing." Rose got up and walked to the mirror and said, with a very heavy lisp, "Oh, wow! This is so cool, Jose; I look amazing! All this metal in my mouth feels great; I can't believe how sexy I look."
 
 
The couple then kissed, exploring each others new braces. After their long, passionate kiss broke off, Rose, with her severe lisp, said, "Shall we do it, Jose?"

 
"I don't know, Rosie; it will be tough, but if you want to, I'm all in," replied Jose.

 
Rose looked to Joe and said, "We'll do it!" and the couple returned to their chairs.
 
 
Evidently, Joe and Mary knew what they meant, and the chairs were reclined. Joe worked on Jose and Mary on Rose, placing their large, colorful surgical splints in their mouths, and then they deftly wired the couple's jaws shut around the bulky splints. The chairs were raised, and the couple got up and kissed once again as best they could with their splints and wires. Then many thanks were given, their other appliances were packed up, and we went on our way.
 
 
As Judy and I were returning to the car, we saw Rose and Jose walking towards the nearby park, arm in arm. They stopped, turned to each other, and tried kissing once again before continuing on their way.

Ch. 151 - Three Legs and a Hand
 
 
We all slept late this morning after the events of last night. It was something to witness Emme regain her sight and see pictures of her new friend Blake for the first time. Before bed, Joel only removed his KAFOs and the shoes from my braces; we slept in the rest of our braces. With me still in my leg braces, Joel slid my feet into my shoes as he attached them to my braces. Once my shoes were buckled snugly on my feet, he helped me get dressed before putting on his KAFOs and clothes. I transferred to my wheelchair, and he picked up his crutches. We headed to the kitchen, hoping someone had already made coffee.
 
 
Indeed, coffee had been made, and the sisters and their husbands were enjoying a cup. We joined them, and soon Pete and Emme came crutching in. We were all hungry, but no one felt like cooking. Collene volunteered to go get us breakfast from McDonald's if she could borrow Emme's car with hand controls. Soon, Collene returned with several bags of McDonald's breakfast items, which was a treat for those of us who don't live close to town.
 
 
As we were eating, we wondered how Terry, Rose, and Jose were doing with their jaws wired shut. Joel texted Jose to find out how he and Rose are doing and to tell them to take time off from work, with pay, for as long as they are wired shut. Judy texted Terry to see how he was doing, too.
 
 
Terry was the first to respond, and he said, "This is pretty damn tough, but I'm sticking with it, Judy. I can't imagine what it would be like with all the pain from surgery, too. However, I'm getting used to things, and I greatly enjoy the immobilization. Last night, Kathy, Lydia, and Pat put tight elastics on their braces and are still wearing them. We had a liquefied meal last night and again this morning. Pat says he is looking forward to Lori getting her prosthetics later today and giving her advice and support."
 
 
A moment later, Joel got a reply from Jose. It was simply a picture of him and Rose in the park by their house, giving a thumbs up and smiling wide, showing their colorful splints and wires. Evidently, they must be enjoying themselves.
 
 
Billy then said, "I hate to be a wet blanket, but Collie and I really need to get home and get ready for work. I would hate for Gary and Rita to arrive at the shop before us." Emme said she needed to get payroll out since Sam has never done it on her own before. Pete also needed to spend time in the office; he hasn't been in since Emme started her blindsimming adventure. We said our goodbyes and loaded up on the bus to head home.
 
 
Judy dropped Billy and Collene's off at their house first. She then crossed the new bridge the guys had built across the creek to our property and parked the bus by the shop. We all wheeled or crutched home to get ready for the day.
 
 
Joel and I got out of our braces, and he put a waterproof cover on my cast. He cleaned our orthodontic appliances, and then we showered together. He helped me into my braces and got me dressed. I decided to continue to wear my sling with the left sleeve of my sweater rolled up. At first glance, I look like I'm missing my left arm, and I get a lot more looks and stares than I usually do. Joel hugged and kissed me, then placed my double-facebow headgear and headed off to pick up Paul and Jimmy to go to the shop.
 
 
I fixed my hair and did my makeup, then went to watch the news and await the arrival of Judy and Rebekah. When they arrived, Judy suggested that we invite Lori and Scotty to have lunch with us before Lori gets her prosthetics fitted this afternoon. Rebekah and I thought that was a wonderful idea, so I called Lori. They happily accepted our offer, and I said we would be by at ten thirty with the small bus, so it would be easy to transport Lori in her large wheelchair.
 
 
Time got away from us, and we needed to get on our way to pick up Lori and Scotty. When we arrived at their home, they were waiting on the front porch. Lori was, of course, wearing her halo CTLSO and brown KAFO on her remaining leg. Under her KAFO, she wore a dark blue compression stocking. Wearing a denim skirt and blue sweater over her halo jacket with her graying hair in a ponytail, she looked adorable. She also looked very confident, cheerful, and much more comfortable since she could now sit with her right knee bent. Judy showed Scotty how to use the lift, and he got Lori on the bus and her wheelchair secured. Scotty then said, "Can I chauffeur you beautiful ladies today? I've driven everything from jeeps to Abrams tanks, so a little bus like this is nothing." Judy gladly let Scotty drive, and she sat in the back with the rest of us to talk.
 
 
As we were on our way to the China House for lunch, Lori was very chatty and excited about her appointment this afternoon. The prospect of having two legs and two hands once again made her feel really good about her recovery. Lori then began to explain what Ben had planned for her spine.
 
 
"Ben wants me to wear my halo CTLSO for a while longer as I learn to walk with my prosthetic leg and KAFO. I have actually grown to love wearing it, and I feel comforted and safe by its constant, tight embrace. Then, he wants me to wear a brace that is sort of like the one Kathy is wearing for fun. He theorizes that because my muscles are so weak, the constant traction will quickly straighten my spine. I think that Kathy's brace is cool; I'm looking forward to wearing one like it, but not looking forward to getting four more pins placed in my halo ring."
 
 
"When my spine is straight, or at least as straight as possible, Ben will have me wear a cast to over correct my curves, then I'll have to wear a brace like Lydia wore at her wedding-a Kuehnegger brace. I'll wear this brace while my spine stabilizes, and then I'll wear a Milwaukee brace like all you girls wear—likely for the rest of my life. I think I will quite enjoy it all, and Scotty says I'll look sexy in my cast and braces; I have to agree."
 
 
Scotty turned red with Lori's final comment.
 
 
"I also have a consultation with Joe in a couple weeks to finalize my orthodontic treatment plan. He stopped by to see me several times at rehab, but he needs to get scans of my teeth to make his final determination. All he said was that I would be in full bands with several appliances inside my mouth and something called 'extra-oral traction'. I was always jealous of girls with braces when I was a teenager; they looked so cool. Now, I'm finally getting them—bands like everyone wore back then, too, just like you all wear now."
 
 
Just as Lori finished telling her story, Scotty pulled into the parking lot at the restaurant. He helped Judy and Rebekah down the steps, then used the lift to get Lori and me to the ground. Lori led the way inside, looking very confident and poised in her wheelchair and braces. She sure is taking all this in stride, and she even seems to enjoy it. Lori is an amazing and inspiring woman!
 
 
We enjoyed our lunch and attracted quite a bit of attention, as usual. Lori seems to like people looking at her, and when she notices someone staring, she warmly smiles at them, but she doesn't let her crooked teeth show. She even likes to strike up conversations with strangers and talk about her situation. After our meal, we got on the bus and headed to Rogers and Jameson Orthotics and Prosthetics.
 
 
When we went inside, Ben and Pat were chatting with Collene. I asked where Terry and Jackie were, and Ben said they were with Kathy and Lydia. Lori asked why Terry hadn't come along to see Pat get his new legs, and he replied, "At this point, a new set of legs is nothing. It will be the same for you someday, Lori. A new hand or leg will be something you get every few years as technology improves. However, there's a learning curve when you get a new prosthetic; something is always a bit different."
 
 
Billy heard us talking and called for us to come to the fitting room, where all the prosthetic limbs were laid out on a table. There was a woman sitting with her back to us, typing on a computer connected to Lori's leg. Upon hearing us enter, she stood up, and Billy said, "This is Gertie. She represents the company that made your prosthetics and will assist with setting them up. They are new models that we have never worked with before, so Gertie is here to help us out." Gertie warmly greeted us with a thick German accent.
 
 
Pat would be getting his new legs fitted first today, so Lori could see how they were worn. He was walking today and wearing loafers and trousers, which he removed. We all got a good laugh when we saw his pink boxers with red hearts. Pat has a great sense of humor. Pat sat in a wheelchair that Billy had brought him and asked Lori to come closer; he wanted her to see how he took off his legs.
 
 
Pat removed his right leg, explaining how to release the prosthetic from his stump. Then he removed the silicone sleeve from his stump, exposing his bare leg that ended just above where his knee had once been. He then allowed Lori to release his left leg, and she helped him remove it and the silicone liner from his stump.
 
 
Billy then handed Pat new liners that he applied to his stumps, with Lori and Scotty intently watching. He explained how it is important that they fit snugly and have no wrinkles in them. Then Gertie handed him his left leg. He put his shoe on the foot and placed the socket on his stump, then repeated the process on the right. With the brakes set on the wheelchair, Pat carefully stood up, firmly seating his stumps in their new carbon fiber sockets. He told Lori that it is important that her stump is fully seated or there is a chance of her leg falling off, which he said from experience is very embarrassing.
 
 
Pat then walked around the room effortlessly, but Gertie asked him to come over to the computer. She plugged it into each of his legs and made some minor changes to the programming. Pat then walked around again, and he even jogged down the hallway. Gertie, Billy, and Gary were satisfied with Pat's new legs, and so was he.
 
 
Now it was on to Lori's leg, but Ben wanted to do a quick examination of Lori's right leg first. Scotty and Billy helped her up onto the table, and Scotty removed her KAFO. Ben then did some neurological and strength tests. Lori's hips were strong; however, the rest of her right leg is very weak, and she has little control over her muscles but has fairly good feeling, especially in her foot. Ben said that between that and the strength in her hips, she would be walking in no time. Scott then helped her put her KAFO back on, and Gertie handed Scotty Lori's leg and silicone liner.
 
 
Scott, with Pat's assistance, put the liner on what is left of Lori's stump. Then, her prosthetic leg was fitted, and Billy and Scotty helped Lori stand and seat her stump in the clear plastic socket. Lori asked, "Billy, why is my socket clear plastic instead of carbon fiber like Pat's?" Billy explained, "It's so we can see how the socket fits you, plus the material is far less expensive. You will need several sockets made until your stump stabilizes, then I'll make you one like Pat's."
 
 
Lori sat back down in her wheelchair, and Gertie had her wheel over to the parallel bars. She stood up, taking hold of one bar, with Billy behind her and Scotty in front. She took several small, halting steps, and Gertie told her to stop. She brought over the computer and modified the programming of Loris' leg, then had her take a few more steps. Gertie was satisfied and said the final programming would be done at the rehab center. Scotty was overjoyed to see his wife walk again, and he hugged her, bumping his head on her halo ring as they kissed and shed tears of joy.
 
 
Lori then returned to her wheelchair and wheeled over to get her MyoHand fitted. This prosthetic simply slipped onto her arm and over her elbow, allowing the electrodes to make direct contact with her skin. Gertie and Billy checked the fit, and Gertie turned the device on and plugged in the computer. She asked Lori to try to open and close her non-existent hand as she typed on the computer. Then she asked Lori to rotate her wrist while more settings were made. Finally, Gertie unplugged the computer and told Lori to try to open and close her hand. Her new hand moved with jerky motions, but Lori did have control over it. Again, Gertie said the final programming would be done at rehab when Lori learns how to use her prosthetics.
 
 
Lori pulled a stocking and shoe from her bag that matched what she was wearing on her right leg and asked Scotty to put them on her prosthetic leg. Her prosthetic leg had the profile of a normal leg, especially when covered with the stocking. Lori wheeled over to the mirror and said, "Wow! I look normal again, with two legs and two hands. This is wonderful!"
 
 
Lori, Scott, and Pat thanked everyone for their work today, and Pat and Ben went on their way to pick up Jackie and Terry to head home. The rest of us got loaded up in the little bus and headed to the park. Lori wanted to be seen as a complete woman for the first time in almost a year.
 

Ch. 153 – A Cast, Bands, and Wires

 
Well, this morning everyone was up early and at my place for breakfast. After we ate, everyone was off to start their day. However, Joel stayed behind to apply Shelly's cast, and then he would drive Scotty and Lori home in the little bus. He needed to take it to the shop anyway since it is getting a new interior and paint job. Joel is converting our little bus into a para transit limo bus. It should only take a few days; everything is already prepared for the conversion.

 
After everyone went off to work, Joel was anxious to get Shelly into her cast and be on his way. Scotty and Lori went to pack their things, and the rest of us headed to the cast room. On the way, Shelly went out to her car and then came crutching in on neon green crutches with her left foot bare; her nails matched her crutches. The wear on the tips of her crutches and her skill on them proved that Shelly had been using them, and she said, "I think I broke my leg, and I need a cast so it can heal." We laughed, and Shelly crutched into our cast room.

 
Once there, she removed her rather short overall skirt, and Joel helped her up onto the casting table. He asked the usual questions, and Shelly's reply was, "Yes, Joel, a full leg cast on my left leg; neon green to match my nails with black stockinette. I want my ankle at ninety degrees and my knee bent enough so I can drive my car. Please make it go as high as possible on my thigh, and I want a toe plate so my toes are protected, too." For someone who has never worn a cast, Shelly knows all about them. Joel replied, "Very well, Shelly. Let's get you into your first cast ever!"

 
Joel got to work, and he soon had Shelly's leg encased in bright, neon green fiberglass. As her cast cured, she simply laid back on the table in silence, enjoying the warmth and immobilization. After Joel cleaned up the cast room, he said, "OK, Shelly, your cast should be fully cured. You can test its immobilization and get up and see what it's like to crutch around wearing a big leg cast like that," as he offered his hand to help her stand up.

 
Once standing, Shelly crutched around the room and said, "Oh, this is wonderful. Thank you both so much! This is my first cast, and it feels great. George knows of my interest in casts, and I can't wait to see the look on his face when he gets home tonight; he doesn't know I'm doing this. This is going to be so much fun. Thanks again, my friends." Joel then helped Shelly put on her skirt, and we went to have another cup of coffee.

 
By this time, Lori and Scott were packed up, and they joined us for coffee. Shelly got up and modeled her cast for them, and she looked great, especially with the high wedge sandal on her right foot. Lori told her how cute her cast was and that she hoped it would be greatly enjoyed. I think the girls wanted to talk more about casts, but Lori has her orthodontic appointment, so she, Scotty, and Joel went on their way.

 
Shelly and I then chatted for a little while, and she asked if I wanted to go shopping with her today; she wanted to be seen in her cast. I graciously declined, saying it would be too hard for her to deal with my wheelchair, and my arm cast was still not hard enough for me to use my platform crutch. Shelly understood and said maybe some other day. We went to her room, and I placed her suitcase on my lap. She crutched, and I wheeled out to her car. I placed her bag in the trunk, and then Shelly leaned over and hugged me, thanking me for everything. I watched Shelly maneuver into the driver's seat, which was a challenge for her in her long leg cast. Finally, she was seated and comfortable for the drive back to town, and we said goodbye.

 
After lunch, I got a text from Lori that read, "Hi Leigh. My spacers are in, and boy, are they uncomfortable. At least, with all the gaps between my teeth, I only needed eight of them. Joe showed me the appliances that I will have placed in my mouth later in the week, and I don't know how they will fit in there. I guess they will, since you and the other girls have similar appliances in your mouths. I am so happy that I am on the road to having my old smile back, though it will take many years." I replied that I am very happy for her and can't wait to see her with her metallic smile in just a few more days.

 
Those few more days are finally upon us. The 'kids', as we call them, Jimmy and Judy, came by for breakfast as usual this morning. I was going into the office with Judy this morning for my contract work, so I dressed a bit nicer than usual. I decided to do my thing and look like an arm amputee by wearing my sling under my sweater with my empty sleeve rolled up. I'm sure that will get me some attention today. It got to be time to go, and Joel helped me into Judy's car and put my small power chair in the trunk.
 
 
On the way to the office, all Judy could talk about was what was happening after work—we're visiting the orthodontist's office. Not only will we get to see Lori with her new braces, we are also getting our new surgical splints to wear just for fun. With their bright colors and large size, there will be no way to hide the fact that we are wearing them. It will also be the first time Judy has had her jaw wired shut for more than just overnight. I made a similar deal with Judy about our splints as I did with Emme about her cast; I would wear my splint and be wired shut for as long as Judy was, but it would only be a few days.

 
My day at the office went great, and it was a lot of fun with my two presentations going very well. I got many questions about my arm and pulled up my sweater to show people the large plaster cast that renders my left arm useless. Around noon, I got a call from Blakely, and she is very excited about her visit. She told me that she has several things to show us that relate to her orthodontic work. I told her that Judy and I were getting new orthodontic splints to wear and our jaws would be wired shut when she arrived, which caused her more excitement.

 
When I met Judy at her car to head to the orthodontist, she was very animated and talkative. She asked me many questions about what living with a wired jaw is like, and I gave her hints on how to make life easier. However, I warned her it could be very difficult, and if it was too much, we could remove her wires and splint. The questions kept coming, and I was looking forward to her getting wired shut; maybe that would quiet her down a bit.
 
 
When we got to Dr. Joe's office, we were greeted by Sally in her well-worn Minerva cast. She said she was still enjoying her cast and was going to get a Minerva CTLSO brace to wear when her cast came off. We were led to the room that Lori was in; she had requested that we be brought in when we arrived. Lori was in the chair, with a small pillow between her neck and the back uprights of her halo brace, with Joe holding a large orthodontic appliance in his hand.
 
 
"This is your functional regulator, Lori. You need to wear it for at least twelve hours a day; at night is probably the easiest. The other 12 hours, you will wear your lip bumpers. Your functional regulator clips onto the bands that secure your expanders. Until you are better able to use your left hand, I don't think you will be able to remove it on your own, but you should be able to place it yourself. Be careful with not being able to remove it; you won't be able to speak clearly, if at all, while wearing it. Why don't you place it in your mouth now, Lori?"

 
Joe raised the chair, and we could now get a good look at Lori's braces. She smiled and said hi, and we returned the greeting. Lori's teeth were almost entirely covered in metal, just like mine, with extremely wide bands. As she spoke to Joe with a very heavy lisp, I could see the expanders inside her mouth—big, bulky ones like mine. Finally, she took the large removable appliance from Joe and placed it in her mouth; it clicked in place, and the bulky appliance puffed out her lips and cheeks. Her front teeth were parted, and she could not bring her lips together. Joe asked if it felt OK, and Lori smiled and gave a thumbs up.

 
"Come over here, Scott. Let me show you how to remove Lori's appliance and place her lip bumpers," Joe said to Scotty. Scotty approached his newly braced wife, and Joe showed him how to remove her appliance and lip bumpers, which looked really cool. They have thick bows that are wavy across the front, with purple plastic covering the heavy wire. Scotty placed the devices into the tubes on Lori's bands, and Joe asked if they felt OK. Lori replied in her new, lispy voice, "These things feel really strange, and I must look like I'm pouting; I can feel them pushing my lips out. Please give me a mirror so I can see my new smile." Joe hands Lori a mirror, which she grasped with her MyoHand and held in front of her.
 
 
"Wow! I look great with braces, like I knew I would. Thanks so much, Joe. I know it will take many years, but I am so excited knowing I'm on the road to getting my old smile back." Joe said he is pleased that she is so happy with her new braces and explained that her functional regulator and lip bumpers are only temporary; she will get headgear when she is out of her halo. With Lori's procedure complete, we all congratulated her on her new smile, and Judy and I each gave her a big hug. It's great seeing Lori so happy, especially with her cute, metallic smile.
 

Lori then carefully got up from the dental chair all on her own and sat down next to Scotty. Joe said, "OK, Leigh and Judy, which of you is up next? I understand you want to not only have the fit of your new splints checked, but you both want your jaws wired shut, too." Judy replied, "Yes, sir. That is what we want; it will be so much fun. Leigh, would you go first so I can see what is going to happen in my mouth? I'm a bit nervous." I said, of course, and wheeled over and transferred to the dental chair with Scott, Lori, and Judy intently watching as I removed my interlandi headgear and twin facebows.

 
Joe changed his gloves, and Mary brought over the tray with the necessary tools and supplies, along with my splint. It's neon pink with purple swirls and a large oval opening between my front teeth, just like Rose and Jose have. Joe reclined my chair, then gently placed the large splint into my mouth. Mary then handed him loops of wire that had been previously prepared, and the splint was wired to my upper archwire in four places. Then my upper and lower arches were wired together, firmly clamping my jaw closed around my large, bulky splint. The job was done in minutes, and Mary handed me a mirror as Joe raised my chair.

 
Judy excitedly asked, "So what's it like, Leigh? Does it feel good? I know you love having your jaw wired shut, and I know I will, too." I tried to reply, but couldn't really speak clearly and simply gave a thumbs up as Lori did with her large appliance in her mouth. I transferred back to my wheelchair, turned to Judy, and said, "Ur uh, Ooey! (You're up, Judy!)" Judy stood and quickly crutched to the chair as I wheeled over to Lori.  She took a very close look at my splint and wires, which were in clear view since I could no longer bring my lips together.
 
 
Once in the chair, Judy removed her headgear; we can't wear it when wired shut. Joe repeated the process of splinting and wiring Judy's jaw with her neon green splint. She winced several times as the wires were being twisted tight, but Joe was soon done. The chair was raised, and Judy looked so cute with all the brightly colored plastic between her teeth and her wires and bands sparkling in the light. With great difficulty, she spoke, and I think she said, "Oh, this is wonderful. No wonder you enjoy this, Leigh. This is so much more intense than just being wired shut without a splint like I was that night. Wait until Jimmy sees me like this. He doesn't know I'm having this done, but I know he'll love it."
 
 
Judy then looked at herself in the mirror and was quite pleased with how she looked with her splint and wires. Lori asked her to come over so she could take a close look and said that we would definitely get a lot of attention when we went out. Lori then turned to Scotty and said, "Please remove my lip bumpers and put in my functional regulator. I want to have a mouthful like Leigh and Judy. We all should go for a walk in the park, too. I need to get my mile of walking in for the day." Scott removed her lip bumpers and placed the large appliance in Lori's mouth.

 
We all thanked Joe, Mary, and Sally and were on our way to walk, crutch, or roll through the nearby park. Lori and Judy couldn't be happier, and Judy is very excited to show Blake her splint and wires this weekend.

Ch. 155 - Blakely's Arrival - Part 1
 
 
Well, I was right; Blakely was up early this morning and sent me a text just after seven:
 
 
B: Good morning, Leigh. Are you up yet?
 
 
L: Oh, good morning, Blake. Yes, we're up; how are you today?
 
 
B: Great! I'm excited to see you and all the friends I made at the retreat. My plan this morning is to take Gordie out for a ride, then we'll come over to your place. I haven't ridden him for a long time, and Billy said you have a stable for Gordie to stay in. Is this OK?
 
 
L: That sounds great, Blake. Now I know what Billy was doing down at the stable the other night.
 
 
B: When I got my casts off, Billy mentioned you have a stable for guests with horses. He said he would get it prepared for Gordie to stay in if I wanted to spend the night at your place.
 
 
L: I'm sure Gordie will be right at home here. I don't remember if I gave you my address; do you know where we live?
 
 
B: Actually, I don't Leigh.
 
 
L: We're at 5262; there is a big iron gate. The first one from your place is Billy and Collene's; ours is the second one. The gate code is 3006. Where the road splits, stay right. The left split goes to Jimmy and Judy's and then on to Paul and Rebekah's.
 
 
B: Wow, that is where you all live? My parents always called it 'the compound'.
 
 
L: That's funny, Blake. That is what we call it. See you soon, and enjoy your ride; it's a beautiful morning.
 
 
B: We'll have a great time. See you soon, Leigh.
 
 
By the time I got braced up and dressed, Jimmy and Judy had arrived with Collie and Billy. Joel blended up some smoothies with protein powder for all of us, which were very good. Over our liquid breakfast, Judy said she had a rough time early this morning.
 
 
"I woke up around four this morning with terrible pain and spasms in my jaw. It hurt so bad, and with my muscles jerking around, my wires really pulled on my teeth; they are still quite sore. Jimmy was extremely concerned, and I was barely able to tell him to get me a hot compress, just like you did for me, Leigh. Soon, the pain and spasms subsided, and I feel better now, except for my sore teeth."
 
 
I explained again that the first few days of being wired shut are the hardest, then it gets easier. Judy recalled the experiences that Rose and Jose had with their splints and wires during the first week and how things got easier to the point where they got bored with their situation. Just as we were finishing our smoothies, Paul and Rebekah came crutching up to the house with Paul in his Kuehnegger brace and KAFOs, and we waited for Blake to arrive.
 
 
Soon, all of our phones beeped; it was the gate alarm. On the screen, we saw Blake getting back on Gordie after punching the code into the gate. She was wearing a western shirt, blue jeans, a leather gun belt, and, of course, her trademark high-heeled hiking boots—she's a very fashionable cowgirl. However, what really caught our eye was the device she was wearing. She rode out of view before any of us could get a good look.
 
 
Billy and Jimmy, who often look after the Santos' horses when they are away for the weekend, headed down to the stable. We watched from the window as Blake rode up to the stable; we were still unable to figure out what the device she was wearing was. On her chest there was a plate with straps, sort of like the front of a SOMI brace. The part on her head looked like the liner from a military helmet. Between these parts was a curved bar that was fully articulated; the movement of her head was not at all restricted. In front of her mouth, there was a cross piece with what appeared to be elastics going into her mouth. It must be some sort of orthodontic protraction appliance.
 
 
We then saw Billy turn Gordie out onto the pasture, and the trio came walking back to the house, with Jimmy carrying Blake's saddlebags. When they got inside, Blake took off her coat and belt with a Colt Bisley in the holster. She hung them on the coat rack while Jimmy took her bags to the guest room. Blake then said, "It's so good to see all of you again! Let me take this thing off so I can give you all hugs." She then removed the elastics from her braces, undid the straps, and removed her orthodontic protraction appliance. Blake then came over to me, carefully lifted me from my wheelchair, and hugged me tightly. She gently set me back down and proceeded to have a tearful reunion with the rest of her friends. Blake sat down to talk, and Joel brought her a cup of coffee.
 
 
Rebekah asked Blake about the device she was wearing when she arrived. Blake said it's called 'The Bow' protraction appliance. She explained that it is a bit cumbersome; however, it's extremely comfortable to wear—she even wears it at work when not wearing her facemask or her other device, 'The Crane'. Paul asked what 'The Crane' was, and Blake said, "Let me show you," as she got up and walked to the guest room.
 
 
Blake soon returned wearing a hard collar-style neck brace, but it had a T-shaped bar at the front. From the top of this bar were elastics that went inside her mouth to the hooks on her upper arch. It combined orthopedics and orthodontics, and Blake really looked great wearing it. Blake then told us all about this appliance:
 
 
"This is my other protraction appliance I enjoy wearing. It's called 'The Crane' and this is what I wear most days at work. For some time, I've had neck and back pain, and not only does this brace move my teeth, it also relieves my neck pain. My orthodontist was initially against me wearing these devices; she just wanted me in my facemask, but finally relented and gave me the proper elastics to use with these appliances. But enough about me for now; I want to know about the splints and wires that Judy and Leigh have; it looks extremely intense!"
 
 
Since I often wear a splint with my jaw wired shut, I can speak more clearly than Judy, so I began to explain things to Blake. I told Blake that Judy wanted to experience wearing a splint and being wired shut, sort of like her wanting to experience wearing casts. I said I was also doing it to show support, just like Rebekah and I are wearing casts in support of Emme with her broken wrist. Blake asked many questions, and we answered them for her; she then expressed a desire to be wired shut someday, too.
 
 
Blake then said, "Speaking of Emme, I talked to her and Pete last night on the way home from the airport. She really wants to see me for the first time since she was blind the entire time at the resort. Pete suggested that we all go out to dinner tonight and let them know if that was OK. Emme said something about the Brazilian steakhouse, where she is known as a handicapped blind girl, and Gary and Rita will join us, too. I really want to thank Rita for all the kind words, encouragement, and support that day I first ventured out in my braces and headgear. Things have gone so well since then, and I had my casts to distract me from my orthodontics, which really helped, too."
 
 
We agreed that dinner was a great idea, and Blake called Emme to let her know. During the conversation, Blake asked if it was OK for Pete and Emme to stay with Paul and Rebekah's, which was fine. The girls chatted for a few minutes, then Blake said, "Emme and Pete will be over in a little while. After she gets to see me for the first time, she'll put in her contacts for our evening out. By the way, Emme said the restaurant is rather formal, so I think we'll all need to change before we go; I know I can't go dressed as I am now."
 
 
We spent the entire day chatting and catching up. Everything is going great for Blake, but she often mentions having pain in her back, knees, and ankles. Kathy and I think Blake has scoliosis. Maybe we can talk her into seeing the doctor Sam saw for her back. 
 
 
Time flew by, and we all went to get changed before Pete and Emme arrived. Joel helped me put on my black brace with wedge booties and a black dress that was a stark contrast to my white cast. My thickly framed black glasses and pulled-back hair completed my look. Joel dressed very nicely but didn't wear any of his braces, which was fine with me. He's been a real trooper, wearing his braces all the time when not at work, as do Paul, Jimmy, and Billy. They seem to really love the braced life as much as all of us girls do.
 
 
When I wheeled out to the den with Joel following, Blake was waiting for us, and she looked stunning. We had always seen her in her casual western-style outfits, but never anything formal. She was in a black cocktail dress with long sleeves and strappy stiletto sandals on her feet. Her dirty blond hair was up in a messy bun, which was the perfect look for her. Around her neck was her Crane neck brace, with two thick elastics running from it and disappearing between her lips. The country girl had transformed herself into someone you would expect to see on the red carpet in Hollywood. Blake looked absolutely ravishing.
 
 
Blake said to us, "I don't look too bad for a tomboy country girl, do I?" Joel and I told her how beautiful she looked, not that she didn't look great before. Blake said, "I may be a bit of a tomboy, but a very pretty one that likes high heels. This girl can style herself to fit in anywhere. It's going to be great to go out all dressed up. I rarely get the chance to go anywhere formal."
 
 
Soon, all the others arrived, and the girls were in black braces and dressed to the nines. Judy and Collie were in matching dresses, and if it weren't for their eye and hair color, they looked like twins. Collie and Rebekah had on their black headgear, and Judy's brightly colored splint and wires really stood out, as did mine. Like Joel, none of the guys were wearing their orthopedic braces—just their usual headgear. Rebekah was in her small power chair, like me, so as not to have to deal with crutches. Everyone complimented Blake on her very sexy yet classy look.
 
 
We heard Pete and Emme pull up outside. I know this will be an emotional reunion for Emme since she has spent many hours with Blake but has only seen pictures of her. Joel went to the door to greet our guests, with Blake right behind him. When they entered, they were both dressed for the evening, and Emme was, like the rest of us, all in black: shoes, braces, dress, and headgear. Well, almost all in black; her plaster cast was the exception. 
 
 
Emme and Blake rushed to each other and hugged, with Emme wrapping her casted arm tightly around Blake. Emme said, "Oh Blake, you are such a beautiful girl; the pictures and even your self-portrait don't do you justice. Just look at you and your crooked teeth, Blake. You would be even cuter with bands like mine. I know getting braces and headgear has been rough for you, but you sure look great!"
 
 
"You're so sweet, Emme," replied Blake. "I have fallen in love with my braces and headgear now, and I love wearing them thanks to the encouragement you all gave me. I know how much you love your braces, and I can't wait to show you my other appliance. Hey, we have time now. Everything is in the guest room. Let's go."
 
 
Emme quickly said hi to everyone, then the girls vanished for almost an hour. When they returned, Emme was using her white cane; her eyes were milky white and blind. Blake helped her to take a seat, and we all talked until it was time to leave for dinner.
 
 
Paul helped Rebekah and I get on the bus using the lift. Emme carefully climbed the steps, and when she turned to take a seat, her eyes were glowing green. The white pigment in her contacts must be sensitive to black light; her eyes looked so eerie and spooky. We all described to her how she looked and took pictures for her to see later. On the way, Pete told us about where we were going, and he mentioned they had a dance floor. Blake's eyes lit up, and she said, "If only I had a dance partner; I'm a great ballroom dancer." I said to her, "Joel and Rebekah used to dance and win competitions until she started wearing her braces full time. Joel would love to dance with you, and I don't mind one bit."
 
 
When we arrived at the restaurant, Gary and Rita were sitting in the lounge by the dance floor. We sat with them, enjoyed a cocktail, and watched several couples dance. Blake shyly said to Joel, "Want to dance, Joel? Leigh said it was OK." Joel took her up on the offer, and they hit the dance floor. The music was slow, and they danced a few songs, then Joel asked for the tempo to be kicked up a bit. The two of them put on quite a show, and I think Joel has found a new partner for competitions.
 
 
We then got our table and had a wonderful meal. Emme had made arrangements for Judy and me to get our soup blended and strained. We even had a few bits of beef that our husbands cut up really fine and fed to us through the holes in our splints. Judy and I will definitely be back when we are unwired; the food is excellent, and Emme can go as a blind, crippled girl, too!
 
 
After dinner, we headed home for a good night's sleep. It has been a busy and emotional day; we're all tired. Tomorrow I'll spend time with Blake doing whatever she wants after Judy and I get our jaws unwired.

 Ch. 157 - My Day with Blake
 
 
At least we didn't overdo it last night with the wine; there were no hangovers this morning, and we all arose well rested and refreshed. Blake, who was still wearing Rebekah's old Milwaukee brace and KAFOs, made us berry smoothies with berries from the ranch. She carefully strained them so no seeds got caught in our orthodontic appliances. As we were enjoying them, Blake asked Judy what life was like with her splinted and wired jaw. Judy replied in a voice a bit more clear than a few days ago.
 
 
"It's great, Blake. I am really enjoying my splint and wires, but it was hard for a few days. I really wanted to cut my wires, but I persisted, and I'm glad I did. A long time ago, when I was wearing a Minerva cast and just got my bands on my teeth, Leigh wired me shut for the night with the hooks on my archwires, no splint. I spent a very pleasurable evening alone in my coach; I was living in an RV where our cottage is now. Being wired shut for just one night was really easy, as were the first day or two of being wired shut with my splint."
 
 
"However, I started having muscle spasms that were really painful, and I almost had my wires cut, but Leigh encouraged me to continue my adventure. As you know, my wires stretched, and you saw Joel redoing them for me the other morning. I'm doing great now; no more spasms, and Jimmy and I are really enjoying my splint and wires."
 
 
"Going to work like this has been a real thrill—maybe the highlight of my adventure so far. Everyone asks questions, and I got tons of attention, which I really enjoyed. Everyone has been very kind in trying to understand my garbled speech, but I think it's improved quite a bit. Next week will be extremely exciting; I have to give a presentation to over one hundred people. Not only will I be standing before them in my braces and on crutches, but I will also have to give my presentation with my splint and wires immobilizing my jaw. It will be a real challenge, but I'm really looking forward to it. So Blake, tell us what it's like to wear your Milwaukee brace and KAFOs. You seem to be enjoying them."
 
 
"Oh, I am enjoying my Milwaukee brace and KAFOs, Judy. For years now, I have been having rather bad back pain when I wake up in the morning, then often throughout the day. This morning was the first time in years that my back didn't hurt when I woke up. However, my hips are a bit sore from the brace rubbing, but it's nothing I can't handle. I think I'm a bit thicker than Rebekah in that area. When I stand up, I feel so much taller, and I look straight ahead instead of slightly down like I usually do. I notice this when I wear my Crane; I don't slouch as bad. My KAFOs comfortably support my knees and ankles, too."
 
 
"I'm beginning to think that I might actually need to wear a back brace of some sort at this point in my life. When I was in middle school, we were all checked for scoliosis, and I was given a referral to see a doctor. I tore up the note, never took it home, and ignored my back as I did my teeth. My parents never forced anything upon me, and at least with my teeth, I'm paying the price now with my extensive orthodontic treatment. I think the same might hold true for my back; I really should get it checked out. You all live full and complete lives in your braces, but I don't know if I could. I enjoy wearing these braces for fun, but actually needing to wear them would be really tough; I don't think I could do it. However, I guess I should get my back checked out."
 
 
I reminded Blake that Ben and Jackie are going to be in town in a few days to check on Lori and suggested she have Ben check out her back. Blake thought this was a good idea, but she looked nervous. She then asked if she could meet Lori and Scott since we have talked so much about them. Emme said, "You will just love Scotty and Lori. They are the kindest people in the world, and Lori is so inspirational; she never really let her accident get her down. If you stop by the shop tomorrow, you can meet Scotty. He works with Jimmy while Lori is at PT."
 
 
Collene, Judy, and Emme then needed to get going; they all had to go to work today. I'm going to stay behind and spend a day on the ranch with Blake as she does her chores. As they were all getting on the bus, Collene said, "Dinner at my place tonight; I'll get takeout on my way home. Don't worry, Judy, I'll fix something for you, my weird, wired little sister." We all laughed at Collies comment, and then the girls were off to get ready for work.
 
 
The rest of the morning, I just followed Blake around the ranch in my wheelchair as she did her chores wearing her Milwaukee brace but without her KAFOs; she didn't want to soil Rebekah's shoes. Blake brushed all three horses; Molly is a sweet old mare that foaled Gordie. The other horse is Blackie, a gelding that Blake's mom rides. Blake then put them out on the pasture and cleaned the stable. All her movements were very stiff since she was wearing a Milwaukee brace, but it didn't seem to slow her down any. She had no problem shoveling manure, handling bales of straw, or sacks of feed. It was almost like she had been wearing the brace for years.
 
 
After the chores were done, we went back to the house for lunch. Blake wanted to take a shower, and I volunteered to make something simple for lunch: grilled cheese sandwiches and soup. She helped me get everything to make lunch, then she went to get cleaned up. As she was walking away, she asked me how to clean her Milwaukee brace; it had become quite sweaty from working. I told her what to do and said we all have multiple braces, so they have at least a day between being worn.
 
 
Blake soon appeared, looking very refreshed with her long hair still damp. She was dressed very casually: denim shorts over her KAFOs, a tight-fitting T-shirt under her Milwaukee brace, and of course her reverse-pull headgear. She asked me, "Is this outfit OK for going to dinner at Collene's? She and Judy are always dressed so nice, even when just hanging out and having fun." I said, "You look great, Blake. It's just dinner with close friends—nothing fancy like the other night."
 
 
As we ate our lunch, Blake asked me if she had told her about Stevie, the manager at the retreat, and her brotherly friend, finally getting his braces. She had not, and I wanted to hear all the details.
 
 
"It's a wonderful story, Leigh, more about love than orthodontics. Let me start by telling you about Cyndi. She works for the company that keeps the resort stocked with first-aid and safety supplies. I have known her since I started working at the retreat, and she is a really nice lady. I always noticed there seemed to be a little spark or chemistry between her and Stevie, often exchanging playful looks and making little comments to each other. They are both single, but neither one has ever made a first move."
 
 
"This all changed the day Stevie got his braces. I went along with him, and when we arrived, Cyndi was in the waiting room. She thought that we were there for work on my braces, but Stevie said that he was getting braces today. Cyndi laughed and said she was also getting braces today; she was finally going to get her overbite corrected. Cyndi asked me why I was wearing my two casts, and before I could answer, the assistant then called for both Cyndi and Stevie; it was their time to face the orthodontist, and I followed to sit with Stevie while he got his braces, as he had wished he could have done for me."
 
 
"The clinic has a large treatment room with a row of chairs. Stevie and Cyndi were seated next to each other, and I sat across from them to watch. The orthodontist moved between chairs, giving instructions to the assistants, who, like Sally said, do all the real work. Soon both Stevie and Cyndi had their braces applied, and Stevie got instructions on how to wear his elastics and Cyndi her hot pink cervical headgear. When they got up from the chairs, they looked at me and smiled. I smiled back and said they both looked great. Then they looked dreamily at each other, and then Stevie said, "So Cyndi, do you want to get a bite to eat before our teeth really start hurting? Blake says it gets pretty bad after the first few hours." Cyndi, with a smile, replied, "I would love to, Stevie. I have always wanted to ask you out but never could muster the courage."
 
 
"By the time we were walking back to the parking lot, Stevie and Cyndi were holding hands. Stevie had picked me up earlier, and he said to Cyndi, "Can I ride with you, Cyndi, and let Blake drive herself home in my truck? You can drop me off to get it after dinner." Cyndi replied, "That would be wonderful, Stevie. In fact, you can drive my Grand Wagoneer; I see you eyeing it every time I'm at the lodge." Stevie tossed me his keys, and he and Cyndi were off. I drove home, and when I left for the early shift the next morning, Stevie's old Bronco was still parked in front of my place. When he arrived at work later in the morning, I asked how the previous night went, and he said, "It was wonderful! Everything is wonderful, Blake." It seems the two are now almost inseparable, and I think that Stevie might move in with Cyndi soon. I always knew there was a spark between them, and their braces seemed to fan that spark into an inferno of love."
 
 
After lunch and telling Stevie and Cyndi's happy story, we retreated to the living room to talk. Since we had all been so open and honest with Blake, I wanted to ask her some questions about why she wanted to wear casts and what she enjoyed about wearing the braces that Rebekah gave her.
 
 
L: So Blake, you seem to really enjoy wearing those casts you got at the retreat, as well as Rebekah's old braces you are in now. May I ask a simple, or what seems like a simple question: Why?
 
 
B: I really don't know, Leigh. I just really like how they feel, especially my casts. They were so soft and comforting on the inside and hard and tough on the outside. I also loved all the attention I got from strangers and the looks I got from guys. At night in bed, they just brought me comfort, sort of like sleeping in this Milwaukee brace did for me last night.
 
 
L: I also enjoy the contrast between the inside and outside of a cast. It always amazes me how something so rough and hard is also soft and comforting at the same time. What about your KAFOs, Blake? How do they bring you enjoyment, comfort, or pleasure?
 
 
B: They bring me all three of those feelings, Leigh, and I really can't explain why. Maybe it is the coldness of the steel and the softness of the leather working together to support and limit the motion of my legs. With casts or braces, it's not the immobilization that I enjoy; it's just how they feel on my body. I've never been into bondage or anything like that. In fact, I find the idea repulsive, but for some reason, I just like wearing all these braces, especially the Milwaukee brace; my back doesn't hurt when I wear it, despite it being far from my perfect fit.
 
 
L: That how I always felt about my KAFOs until I decided to let my legs go like Judy did. Now that I really need them, and I have always needed my Milwaukee brace, I feel naked and incomplete without my braces. When I'm taking a bath, I can't wait to put on my braces again and feel complete.
 
 
B: You just said it, Leigh. I feel complete wearing these braces, but I don't know how I would feel about actually needing to wear them. Part of the enjoyment is knowing I can take them off if I want to, like not wearing the KAFOs to clean the stable. I think it would be really hard to actually need to wear braces like these without the option of taking them off at will.

 
However, I went from despising my orthodontic braces, though I very much needed them, to loving them; I can't imagine myself without them now. If I had to wear a back brace, I think I would grow to love it, but it would be really, really hard at first.
 
 
But I'm so glad I decided to go on that bus trip with you all and that Rita took me under her wing. I think that day has changed my life forever, and maybe I have discovered a new way of life, too. Hey, look at the time; we need to head over to Collene's place. But first, let me text my mom and tell her how things are going.

 
L - Sounds like a plan, Blake.

 
Blake used voice to text to send her mom a message just before we left for Collene's.

 
"Hi mom. Things are going great here; the ranch is in good order. I have been having a wonderful time with my friends, too. In fact, we're all having dinner at Collene's house tonight. Oh, I think I am finally going to heed your advice and get my back checked out; I've been having so much pain lately. Dr. Ben will be in town this week, and I'll have him check my spine. I hope you are having fun and give dad a hug and a kiss for me. Blake"