Ch. 188 - Lori and Blakely
 
 
Last night, Lori and Scott had Joel and me over for dinner. It's remarkable how well Lori is doing with her KAFO and prosthetic leg; she gets around quite easily despite her cumbersome halo traction brace. She is also doing well with her prosthetic hand; it's almost like it's her real hand at this point. For the next few months, she will be wearing a very restrictive cast to over correct her scoliosis and kyphosis, two issues she never knew she had until they were worsened by her accident. Ben will apply her cast at the hospital he works at, and Lori will remain there for a few days for observation. Jackie graciously offered to let Scott stay with her and Ben so he wouldn't have to be alone in a hotel.
 
 
Lori was very apprehensive and feared the pain and discomfort, both physically and emotionally, that her casting would likely involve. The idea of giving up her hard-earned mobility, even temporarily, is very difficult for her to cope with. I think this is the most emotional I have ever seen Lori, and while we were taking a walk after dinner, she completely broke down. I hope things go well for her and that her discomfort is minimal.
 
 
We have all been waiting for news on how things went for Lori today, and this evening, several of us got a group text from Scott. It simply stated:
 
 
"Lori is now in her corrective cast, and she is in extreme discomfort. The cast holds her body in a very contorted position, and it pains me to see her like this. At least her halo is being utilized with her cast so her head is not casted as originally planned. Ben said it will get easier for her with time, but she will never be comfortable in her cast. The good news is that she will possibly only need one cast instead of two, which will make life a bit easier for Lori; the casting process was grueling. Once out of her cast, she will begin wearing her spinal brace and doing PT to rebuild strength and flexibility. This is quite the ordeal for both of us, and we are thankful to have friends to see us through it. We love you all, Scotty. "
 
 
****
 
 
Lori ended up spending two nights in the hospital. The extreme angles of her cast caused her to have some difficulty breathing, but she's finally coming home. Once she was home, we had a short video chat. Lori seemed to be depressed and lonely, but I did get her to smile a time or two. I couldn't see too much of her cast the way she held the phone, but she still had the halo ring on her head, holding it tilted back and to the right. She looked extremely uncomfortable; however, she invited me to stop by and visit tomorrow.
 
 
****
 
 
I'm off to visit Lori this morning. It's a nice day, so I decided to use my power chair to make the short trip to her home instead of driving. I wore my new bright red HKAFO-Milwaukee brace along with my red glasses, facebows, and headgear. I thought the bright color might cheer Lori up. 
 
 
When I arrived, I left my wheelchair on the porch, crutched to the door, and rang the doorbell. Scotty answered, saw me in, and hollered towards the back of the house, "Hey Lori, Leigh is here to visit you." He then led me to the bedroom, where Lori will be spending the next two months.
 
 
I was shocked when I saw Lori lying in her special orthopedic hospital bed with her body encased in white fiberglass. The bed is one of those where someone is strapped in and the bed rotates to prevent pressure sores. Her casted body was strapped to the bed, but her arms and right leg were free since she was lying on her back. 
 
 
Lori's cast is huge and looks to be the most uncomfortable cast I have ever seen, and I have seen and worn many casts. The cast covered the stump of her left leg and continued up her body, ending at her shoulders. The part of the cast that went over her shoulders did not touch them; there was about a two-inch gap. The cast held Lori's spine arched back, and there was a severe bend at her hips, pushing her upper body to the left. Her halo ring was attached to the cast, and her head was positioned leaning to the right and tilted back. She was wearing her orthodontic headgear attached to the outriggers on her halo ring. Lori looked miserable with her body forced into this contorted position, yet she smiled wide, showing her bands, when I came within view.
 
 
"Oh, it's good to see you, Leigh!" Lori happily said. "This has been so difficult for me, and the pain is pretty bad, too."
 
 
"I can't imagine what it would be like to wear a cast like yours, Lori. You know I love casts, but I don't think I would love that one." I smiled at Lori, and she laughed.
 
 
"I bet Judy or Emme would love to be in my place, wouldn't they?" Lori was right; those girls would probably enjoy a cast like this despite the discomfort.
 
 
"Yes, I think they would." I said, and we both laughed.
 
 
Lori and I talked for a while while Scotty ran to do some errands. Lori explained to me that she will be in this cast for a month, then X-rays will be taken. Then, depending on how things look, she will get a new cast or remain in this one for another month. Ben thinks that only one cast will be necessary, but only time will tell.
 
 
Lori said the hardest part for her so far is giving up her long-fought for mobility. The idea of being bedridden for two months is really difficult for her to cope with, even more difficult than the constant pain and discomfort she is in. Once she is out of her casts, Lori can finally get into the special brace that Billy is making for her, and can begin physical therapy to rebuild her strength. Eventually, Lori might only need to wear a Boston brace during the day and something a little more supportive at home and to sleep in.
 
 
We had a wonderful chat, and by the time Scotty returned home, Lori was rather tired. As we were saying our goodbyes, I reminded Lori that Blakely and Chris are arriving tomorrow and will be spending two weeks here. Blakely's parents are traveling again, and she is getting her external distraction device for her protraction treatment. Lori said that by the weekend, she hoped to feel better and would love for all of us to come visit. Lori loves being around Blakely, Emme, and Judy; she finds their youthful energy invigorating.
 
 
****
 
 
Blakely and Chris arrived early this morning, and Chris was sporting a new hair style. A high and tight looked great on him; he's quite a handsome young man. They will be staying in Billy and Collene's guest house for two weeks while Blake's parents take another vacation. It seems like Dave and Donna are always traveling, either for pleasure or for Dave's work. Once the kids got settled in, they went to visit Blake's parents and help them get ready for their trip; we are all going to take them to the airport this afternoon.
 
 
At about one, Judy, who now works from home most days, and I got in our small bus and headed to the Santos's home for a late lunch. After we enjoyed lunch, Chris got the suitcases loaded into the bus, and we began our journey to the airport. Recently, we have been spending at least one night a week visiting with Donna and Dave, and we have become quite good friends. I don't know what Blakely has told them about us, but the topic of our braces has never come up until now. 
 
 
"So Judy, Blake has told me all about wearing her various braces. What's it like for you to wear yours?" Donna inquires.
 
 
"Oh, after a while, they just became part of you. I really don't think about them anymore. Once you get used to them, they are very comfortable." Judy gives factual answers.
 
 
"How about you, Leigh?" Donna looks toward me.
 
 
"I feel the same, Donna. In fact, I enjoy wearing them, and I think Judy enjoys her braces, too." I reply.
 
 
"I think I understand. Blake has told me a lot about all her new friends—maybe too much." Donna shyly admits, and Blake looks quite nervous. "The reason I ask is that my back has been giving me trouble for years, and I think I need to get it checked out."
 
 
"Well, get yourself checked out, Donna. You don't want to have back troubles as you get older. We are all here for you, like we were for Blake." I reassure Donna, and Dave holds her hand.
 
 
"Thank you, Leigh." A warm smile comes to Donna's face.
 
 
When we arrive at the airport, Chris pulls into the bus parking area, and soon a shuttle stops to pick us up. Once inside the terminal, Dave and Donna get their baggage checked, and we are soon saying our goodbyes. Once they board their plane, Blake wants to stop off at the lounge for a drink; she suddenly got to thinking about her orthodontic appointment tomorrow, which she is very apprehensive about.
 
 
When we get to the lounge, we find a quiet place to sit and watch the people hustling by outside. After a few minutes, we notice a man sitting at a nearby table with his laptop in front of him and a suitcase by his side. Since our braces don't allow much movement of our heads, we can't help but constantly look his way. His eyes are not focused on his laptop; they are focused on us, and he glances down wherever his eyes meet ours. We are used to having people stare at us, so we don't give it much thought. 
 
 
As we are enjoying our cocktails and Chris is sipping his Coca-Cola, the cell phone of the man watching us rings. He answers, and Judy, Chris, and I don't recognize the language he is speaking, but Blake is listening intently to the man's conversation.
 
 
"Do you know what language he is speaking?" I ask Judy.
 
 
"No, I'm not good with languages. How about your Chris?" Judy looks at Chris.
 
 
"All I know is a....." Blakely interrupts Chris and says, "Shut up! He's talking about us!"
 
 
We all listen carefully, with Blake being the one understanding what is being said, but he mentions our names often; He knows who we all are! The phone conversation lasts a few minutes, and when he puts down the phone, Blake boldly says, "I'm going to go over and talk to him!"
 
 
Blake walks over to the man and begins speaking to him. They shake hands, and the man pulls out a chair for Blake to take a seat. They talk for several minutes, but none of us know what is being said; however, we hear our names several times. Finally, Blake motions for us and says, "Come meet Jota. He's been reading your story, Leigh, and wants to meet all of you."
 
 
We had a wonderful conversation with Jota, with Blake translating for us. This is only the second time someone has recognized us from me telling our story online, the first being Shelly. Jota was a real gentleman and asked us many detailed questions about our braces and our lifestyles, and he was especially curious about our amputee friends and Collene with her paralysis. I wish Lori and Collene could have been here. 
 
 
Jota told us that he was traveling to meet a friend he made online who helps him with his own story-telling. He's also visiting the mountains to experience the cold weather and snow. Finally, we had to part ways. Jota needed to catch his connecting flight, but we promised to keep in touch. Hugs were exchanged, and our new friend was on his way.
 
 
We got on a shuttle to take us back to the bus, and once on board and heading home, Judy asked Blake, "So what else don't we know about you, Blakely? What language were you speaking?"
 
 
"Oh, Brazilian Portuguese. I was raised speaking it." Blake replied with a smile, showing her bands. "Three generations of my dad's family lived in Brazil; my grandparents came here when my dad was five years old."
 
 
"Oh, that explains your dad's accent; I could never place it." I said.
 
 
It was then that my phone rang; it was Lori. She asked if we would all like to come over for a steak dinner since Blake will probably be on a soft diet for quite a while after her orthodontic appointment tomorrow. We accepted the invitation and said we would be by around seven; we were just leaving the airport now.
 
 
****
 
 
When we got home, Joel and Jimmy got in the bus, and we headed over to Scott and Lori's home. Collie and Billy were there, along with Paul and Rebekah. Lori was much more upbeat this evening, and she said that she was no longer in as much pain, but her cast is extremely uncomfortable. Joel was quite taken by Lori's cast, and I know he would love to see me in one like it someday. Maybe if I am ever in a halo again, I'll let him cast me like this for a few days, but it sure doesn't look pleasant.
 
 
Scotty set up a folding table in Lori's room so we could all eat together. We had a great dinner, but it was quite difficult for Lori to eat with her body positioned as it is. She ate very slowly, with much help from Scotty. Chris ate slowly, too; he has spacers between his teeth so his braces can be applied tomorrow. We all felt really bad for Lori, but we know the unconventional treatment Ben has chosen for her will yield excellent results in the long run. As the evening came to a late close, Lori wished Blakely well on the next stage of her orthodontic treatment, and Blake promised to visit again after she gets her appliance placed tomorrow.
 
 
We then made our way home, and I could tell that Blakely was extremely nervous about what would happen at the orthodontist tomorrow.

Ch. 190 - Blakely Wakes Up
 
 
Chris is holding Blake's hand as she slowly awakens from her heavy sedation. As she wakes, she feels Chris holding her hand, and without opening her eyes, she groggily says, "Chris... Is that you?"
 
 
"Yes, it's me, Blake. How are you feeling, honey?" Chris holds Blake's hand tighter while speaking with a strong lisp.
 
 
"I have a headache, Chris. A really funny-feeling headache." Blake's voice is low and weak.
 
 
"I know; my head hurts, too. It will be OK." Chris comforts Blake.
 
 
Blake slowly begins to open her eyes and sees Chris wearing the WEDD appliance fixed to his skull. "What is that thing on your face, Chris? You look funny." A slight smile comes to her face, and she giggles.
 
 
"It's the same thing you are wearing, dear. We are both wearing them to help fix our teeth." Chris replies.
 
 
Forgetting why she is at the orthodontist, her eyes open wide, and in a worried voice, Blake says, "I'm... I'm wearing one of those, too?"
 
 
Blake lets go of Chris's hand and brings both her hands to her head. She runs her fingers along the halo that wraps around her forehead and feels the pins in the narrow gap between her halo and her head. Then her fingers follow the part that extends in front of her mouth, which is attached to the rods protruding from between her lips. Now wide awake and with a stronger voice, Blake says, "I... I look like you, Chris?"
 
 
"Well, not exactly; your appliance is a really pretty purple color, and you look great wearing it, too." Chris says with a smile, showing all the bands and wires on his upper teeth.
 
 
"I do?" Blake questions.
 
 
"Yes, you do. How's the pain? The pins in my skull hurt, as do the braces on my bottom teeth. However, I only feel slight pressure on my upper teeth." Chris describes how he is feeling.
 
 
"My head hurts a lot, and this thing in my mouth feels strange. There are a lot of big wires running across the roof of my mouth. Wait, pins in your skull? That means I have them, too." Blake is still a bit out of it from her sedation and looks scared and worried.
 
 
"Yes, that's right. Don't you remember what Joe and Walt told us? There are six pins that secure the devices to our skulls. You remember seeing the rendering Joe showed you a few weeks ago?" Chris inquires.
 
 
"Oh, yes, sort of. I was kind of out of it that day, and I guess today, too. Can I see what I look like?" Blake wants to see her new look.
 
 
"Stay in the chair, Blake. Leigh, can you hand Blake that mirror?" I do as Chris requests.
 
 
I hand Blake the mirror, and she silently looks at her reflection for several minutes. She moves the mirror around a bit and turns her head from side to side to get a better view of her new WEDD appliance. Blake opens her mouth to try to get a look at what has been affixed to her upper teeth. We are all looking at each other, hoping for the best, but we are prepared for the worst.
 
 
Blake lowers the mirror and hands it back to me, looks to Chris, and with a smile says, "This is so cool! I, oh, I mean we, look so cute wearing these things! I'm so glad you decided to get the same treatment as I need, Chris. It shows how much you love and care about me, and it will make this much easier on me. But there is only one problem: I don't think we can kiss anymore. There is too much metal in the way."
 
 
We all laughed and were pleased that Blake is doing so well accepting her situation. However, we know that things could take a turn for the worse emotionally for Blake, so we all tried to be very upbeat and supportive of both her and Chris. This will be a difficult time for them, especially when they go out in public and back to work. Chris helped Blake up from the chair, and we all hugged and offered words of encouragement, with Emme and Judy expressing jealousy; they wished they were wearing appliances like Chris and Blake are wearing.
 
 
We made our way to Joe's office, where Rita helped Blake into her Milwaukee brace. She reminded Blake that she no longer needs to wear her Kuehnegger brace with its orthodontic attachment during the day anymore. Instead, she can wear her Milwaukee brace for ten hours a day and her Kuehnegger brace the rest of the time, and of course, she no longer needs to use the orthodontic attachment.
 
 
As Blake was putting her blouse back on, she asked Rita, "But I can still wear my big brace all day if I want to, can't I?"
 
 
Rita replied, "Of course you can, Blake. You can wear any of your braces during the day, but be sure to wear your Kuehnegger for at least fourteen hours a day. Oh, never forget to do your exercises either; they are very important."
 
 
With excitement in her voice, Blake said, "Oh, that's great! I really like wearing my big brace; it's so supportive. I love how it cradles my head; it feels so good to wear it."
 
 
With that said, we thanked the doctors and assistants. Joe said he would like to see both Chris and Blake before they go home and to call if there are any problems. He also asked me to teach the kids how to care for their pins since I am so well versed from my almost year-long halo brace adventure. We said goodbye to everyone, with Emme and Rita going off to work. We got into the bus, and Judy began to drive us home.
 
 
On the way home, I asked Blake and Chris how they were both feeling. Blake said that the pins securing her halo were the worst part, especially the pressure, but it wasn't too bad. Chris agreed and said that his bottom teeth were starting to become tender, but his upper teeth were still feeling pretty good. They both had lisps, with Blake's being considerably different from when she was wearing her previous appliances; it was much less pronounced. I reassured them that the pain from the pins would diminish in a few days, but from my experience in a cervical halo brace, the pressure would remain to some degree, but it should be less since their pins are smaller. They found my words reassuring and comforting.
 

******

 
Over the next few days, Chris and Blake got used to their new orthodontic appliances and visited friends to catch up and show off their WEDD appliances. Blake got her Milwaukee and Kuehnegger braces adjusted by Billy, and she is making great progress with her curves. The discomfort from their halo pins has diminished, but the pressure on their teeth increased when the first of their every-other-day adjustments were made. Overall, they're doing well, and they both are wearing their KAFOs, with Blake continuing to wear her Kuehnegger brace even during the day while Chris prefers his Milwaukee brace. It seems that Chris very much enjoys supporting Blake by wearing his recreational leg and back braces as much as possible.
 
 
We were all so glad to see Blake doing so well since she has had such trouble coping with things in the past. Maybe it is because she has Chris in her life now, or maybe it's just her becoming stronger when it comes to her health issues. The only thing that was taking them a while to get used to was the weight of the large metal appliance secured to their heads. Even though it was made from a lightweight alloy, it still feels a bit heavy, and their spinal braces help to support their heads and the extra weight; maybe that is one reason Chris has been wearing his back braces so much.
 
 
Well, early this morning, I got the call I was dreading...
 
 
L: Hey Chris, what's up?
 
 
C: Hi Leigh. I hope you can help; Blake is having a really rough time this morning.
 
 
L: Oh no! What happened?
 
 
C: Well, I told her that I made us reservations at the hotel in the city for a few days so we could visit the museums and galleries like we did before. I thought it would make her happy, but she started to cry. Blake said she didn't want to go out and be seen wearing her WEDD appliance and that she is having trouble eating and drinking, too. Worst of all, she misses being able to kiss me. Of course, I miss kissing her, too. I have to agree that eating with that thick metal bar in front of our mouths is quite difficult, and we must drink with straws, which are hard with the rods between our lips. You and your friends have helped Blake in situations like this before, and I need your help now.
 
 
L: OK, well, get her up to our place for breakfast and just follow my lead. I have a plan.
 
 
C: OK, thanks, Leigh. We'll see you soon.
 
 
When Blake and Chris arrived, it was obvious that she had been crying. It was a cool morning, and she was trying to hide all her braces by wearing long, loose pants, a turtleneck sweater, a beanie pulled over her halo ring, and a scarf wrapped around her face. Only a small part of her appliance could be seen in front of her ears. When the other arrived, the mood was rather somber, and Blake only picked at her meal. Everyone finished their meal and went on their way, leaving Joel, Chris, Blake, and myself alone.
 
 
"Hey Chris, would you like to see our cast room? It is where we apply our recreational casts and keep our supply of orthopedic braces," I said, not remembering if I had shown Chris our cast room, but he definitely knows of our interests.
 
 
"No, I don't think you have seen your cast room; I would like to see it. I know that Blake really loves wearing casts." Chris took my lead well, and Blake's eyes lit up.
 
 
"Well, come on and I'll show you." I grabbed my crutches and got up, with everyone following me to the cast room.
 
 
"Wow, this is amazing! It's just like the cast room at the hospital when I broke my leg." Chris is impressed. "What's that metal frame in the middle of the room?"
 
 
"That's our traction frame. It's for applying large body casts, like you saw Judy wearing in those pictures she showed you and Blake. I could teach you how to apply some smaller casts, Chris, if one of the ladies would volunteer." Joel says it with a smile, glancing at Blake.
 
 
"Me...Me...Me!!! I volunteer." Blake excitedly begins to take off her loose pants and sweater, then hops up on the table.
 
 
Joel proceeds to explain how casts are applied and demonstrates it to Chris by putting Blake's left arm in a purple SATS, just like she has worn before. Then Blake says, "Show him how to put a cast on my leg, Joel!" Joel gathers more material, including a set of knee hinges and the proper-height walking heel to compensate for Blake's short left leg. Chris removes her left KAFO, and Joel begins the casting process with help from Chris. Soon, Blake is wearing a big purple hinged LLC with a toeplate and very tall waking heel, and she is all smiles.
 
 
"Oh, this is great, guys! Thanks for the casts; they are so comforting to wear. Once they are dry, let's go get ready for our trip to the city, Chris," Blake happily says while hugging Chris.

 
Chris helps Blake get dressed, and they are on their way, with Chris giving me a wink and a thumbs up.
 
 
Over the next five days, Blake and Chris sent us many pictures and videos. They are having a great time in the city, and Blake seems to really be enjoying herself, showing off her casts, braces, and orthodontic appliances. In almost every picture, she is wearing a short skirt and a crop top to show off her casts and braces. Blake is even on crutches in several videos, with the hinge on her left knee locked at an angle. There was even a picture of Blake with another girl about her age wearing a traditional rigid distraction device, and they were both smiling. It seems that a couple of casts have once again brought Blake the comfort and security she needs during a trying time.
 
 
When they got back, Blake and Chris went for a quick checkup with Dr. Joe. He was very pleased and said that Blake's upper teeth have moved more in the last two weeks than during her entire treatment up to this point. He also said that Chris is making good progress and that they might be able to get their appliances off early. Blake decided to wear her casts for a full six weeks and get them removed when they come for their next orthodontic checkup. Blake's folks were a bit shocked to see their daughter, and likely future son-in-law, wearing their appliances and Blake in her casts, but they were very supportive.
 
 
Collie had our entire group of friends over the night before Chris and Blake were to go home. She cooked a great Italian dinner with the recipes that Flora had taught her. Scott and Lori, who is still in her very uncomfortable corrective halo cast, joined us with Lori strapped to my old reclining wheelchair I lent her. A good time was had by all, with Blake very upbeat and happy once again. The next morning, Blake and Chris joined us for a final breakfast together, and then they were on their way home to Kings City.
 
 
A few days later, I got a text from Blake:
 
 
"Hi Leigh! Thanks for everything during our visit. I am really enjoying my casts; they are so comforting to wear and make my worries fade away. Chris and I are doing great, and we have very little discomfort from our appliances now. We have even mastered eating and drinking, but kissing is still impossible. I'm doing great at work, and everyone is so supportive. Chris got teased a bit at work; they guys now call him 'Robo-Jaw, but he's taking it in stride. We'll see you in a few weeks. Love, Blake and Chris."

Ch. 192 - An Afternoon With Pam and Addy
 
 
It took Lori a few days to get as comfortable as possible in her halo-hip spica cast. The position in which her halo holds her head is even more awkward than before, and eating is a real challenge for her. However, the pain of having her upper spine stretched and contorted so much has diminished. 
 
 
Luckily, Lori has a few things going on around her home to distract her from her immobilization and discomfort. Scotty puts her in her wheelchair every morning so she can watch the workers doing projects around their house. They are getting a large hot tub installed and handicap hoists installed for both it and the swimming pool. The entire patio area is being redone with an outdoor kitchen, too. Lori can't wait until she gets her new spinal braces and can once again be on her feet, one real and one prosthetic, and host a party for all her friends.
 
 
****
 
 
Tonight, we are meeting Pete and Emme for dinner at Ranch Gordo. I think that Shelly should be out of her SLWCs by now and likely wearing ROM boots. When we arrived, Pete and Emme were sitting outside enjoying a cocktail, with Emme wearing patches over both her eyes—another evening blindsimming for her. We join them for a drink before getting a table for dinner. As always, Shelly was our waitress, and she was in fact now wearing ankle ROM boots, but they looked custom-made. Pete compliments Shelly on how well she's getting around and that she looks lovely with her orthodontic braces and bright pink combination headgear. Shelly responds:
 
 
"Oh, I love my braces and headgear! I'm finally getting my teeth fixed up, and I really enjoy the process. Joe is so gentle, and my braces never cause me any pain or discomfort. Oh, these boots Billy made for me are so cool, too. He gave me a series of insoles that fit in the boots and gradually get higher at the heel. I started low and have worked my way up to a four-inch lift at the heel. Generally, they are used in the opposite order and without the ankles free for people with Achilles injuries. I'm using them differently, so I can get used to wearing high heels again without risking injury to my ankles."
 
 
"Oh, something else that Billy did was make detailed castings of my feet and legs. He said he has a client who requested extremely detailed prosthetic feet and legs, and he thought mine were perfect for her. So, somewhere there will be a girl with my cute feet and sexy legs!"
 
 
We had a wonderful meal as always, and it was good to see Shelly enjoying her orthopedic and orthodontic adventure. She is truly one of us, and I wonder what she will desire to experience next. Anything is possible.
 
 
****
 
 
I'm finally meeting Dr. Pam Moore and her assistant, Addy Wilcox, for lunch and a chat today. It was a bit of a challenge to schedule a date with how busy they are, but we will have all afternoon to spend together after lunch today. I know they both are very curious about my situation, and with Pam being a doctor and good friends with Ben, I must tell the truth about my braces and letting go of my legs. Outside of my group of close friends, no one knows the full story about my legs and my braces. I'm a bit nervous talking about it with a doctor and her assistant, especially since Pam has a real disability. I am also torn about how I should present myself. Should I use my wheelchair or crutches? Should I hide my braces as best I can or let them be seen? Should I wear my headgear or not? I just don't know; I don't want to offend.
 
 
With the nice weather today, I decided to wear a long, flowing dress, use my crutches, and my twin facebow interlandi headgear with black straps; I can always take it off at the last minute. Pam has seen me wearing it before, but Addy has not, and I think she is really curious about my colorful bands and appliances. I wonder if she has talked to Joe about getting colored brackets. It's been a few weeks, so she might have gotten them.
 
 
I pulled into the parking lot at Mimi's Cafe and parked near the entrance. At the last minute, I removed my headgear and put it in my purse, then crutched inside. I looked around and didn't see Pam and Addy, so I took a seat in the waiting area. The ladies soon arrived, and they were dressed casually like I was, with Pam rolling along in her wheelchair. When Addy greeted me with a smile, she had iridescent light blue brackets on her front four upper teeth; the rest of her teeth were banded with bands of the same color; they looked great. We got a table near the back where it was quiet, and I sat across from the ladies. From the way Pam and Addy interacted, I could tell their relationship was far more than professional, just as I had suspected.
 
 
Addy was very talkative and told me about going to see Joe to get her new braces, which it is obvious that she badly needs. She even admitted to me that she has a 'thing' for braces and really enjoys her new colorful braces that match the color of her eyes. With Addy admitting that she has a 'thing' about braces, I told her and Pam about my love of orthodontics and how very little of what I have in my mouth is actually necessary. However, I didn't tell them that all my appliances have been permanently bonded to my teeth and they cannot ever be removed. Addy was excited to meet someone with a similar interest in orthodontics, and Pam seemed enthralled by our sparkling smiles. This left me wondering if Pam has a thing for braces, too, and maybe that Addy has an interest in orthopedic braces and disabilities, too.
 
 
We ate our meal without any discussion about my leg and back braces. What was mentioned is that Addy has been working with Pam for about fifteen years as a physician's assistant. I was thinking from her looks and playful demeanor that Addy was in her late twenties, not her mid-forties. Pam also said that as her condition has progressively gotten worse, she needs more and more help with her daily activities. About eight years ago, the lease on Addy's condo was up for renewal, and Pam asked her to move in with her as her caregiver. Soon after, they fell in love, and they have been in a very happy relationship ever since. 
 
 
After we finished lunch, Addy and Pam asked me to join them for an afternoon together at their home. Of course I accepted their offer; I wanted to learn more about them, and I'm sure they have a lot of questions for me. After all, Pam did want to talk privately with me about my situation. I followed them out to the parking lot on crutches, with Addy pushing Pam's wheelchair towards an Aston Martin DBX. Addy helped Pam into the driver's seat, and she then put the wheelchair in the back of the car and said for me to follow them as she got in the passenger's seat. Pam cranked the engine, and it sounded amazing! 
 
 
I followed the blue DBX that sparkled in the sunlight like Addy's braces, and soon I found myself in the most exclusive part of town. The Aston Martin turned into a driveway, and the wrought iron gate opened. The driveway must have been at least a mile long and ended at a large house that overlooked our entire town. The garage door opened and the DBX pulled inside, and that is when I noticed the cute little car parked in the garage—a make I had never seen before—Wartburg.
 
 
I parked, got out of my car, and crutched over to the little car. As Addy was helping Pam into her wheelchair, she said, "It's a 1960 Wartburg 311 that belonged to my father. He bought it while serving in the Army in Germany and brought it home with him. It's so cute, isn't it?"
 
 
I had to agree that the little cream and blue car was cute, and I told Addy my husband would love it with his interest in communist-era cars. Addy pushed Pam's wheelchair into the house, and I followed. We got comfortable in the large living room with big windows that gave a full view of town. I could even see the bus shop and an old Greyhound Silversides reflecting the sunlight as it pulled out of the parking lot. 
 
 
Pam then asks me about the condition that requires me to wear the orthopedic braces that I wear. I matter-of-factly told my story, a story you all know well, and it was accepted without question. Pam was quite impressed with the extremes I went to to let go of my legs. I told her about how Judy had done the same thing and that she was my inspiration. Addy said that, as Pam's condition worsened and they became closer, she discovered that she was a devotee. Both Addy and Pam asked me a lot of questions, and I was open and honest. It was nothing that you already don't know, so I'll skip the details.
 
 
It was then that, with a smile, Pam sternly said, "Addison, shouldn't you be wearing your headgear? Dr. Robbins said you should be wearing it whenever you are not at work."
 
 
Addy turns red and says, "But we have a guest, Pammie. I like my new colorful braces a whole lot, but I'm not fond of my headgear at all."
 
 
"Leigh's headgear is much more complicated than yours; I've seen her wearing it before." Pam smiles at me.
 
 
"Very well, dear, I'll go put it on. I know how much you enjoy seeing me wearing it." Addy smiles mischievously at Pam.
 
 
As Addy goes to put on her headgear, I get mine out of my purse. Pam wheels over and helps me get my facebows in place and attached to my interlandi headgear. When Addy returns, she is shocked to see me in my rather complex headgear. "Oh my, that is quite the setup you have to wear, Leigh. Please tell me it is an actual part of your treatment, not something extra for your... um... pleasure."
 
 
I smiled at Addy and Pam, then I said, "My headgear is simply a fashion accessory for my pleasure. I truly enjoy wearing it."
 
 
"You only wear it at home, right?" Addy questions.
 
 
"No, I generally wear my double-facebow headgear all the time. I really like how I look wearing it and the feeling of my facebows between my lips and my Interlandi straps on my head." I smiled once again.
 
 
"May I please take a look at what else you have in your mouth?" Addy sits down next to me.
 
 
"Sure, Addy, I love talking about all my braces. Take a look." I open my mouth, and Addy and Pam examine my orthodontic appliances. I explain what all my appliances are normally used for and why I enjoy wearing them simply for pleasure. Then I demonstrated my modified Herbst, which allows me to lock my jaw in any position. I clenched my teeth around my splint, locked my jaw in place, and left it like that for the rest of our visit. Both ladies are impressed with how well I can speak with my jaw completely immobilized.
 
 
"See, Addy, there are other people like me. I'm not so strange after all." Pam smiles at Addy.
 
 
"Well, if you like braces so much Pammie, why don't you get all the same stuff as Leigh has? I would sure like to be able to lock your jaw shut when you're in a bad mood and start yelling." Pam leans over and kisses Addy, taking her facebow between her lips.
 
 
"Maybe I will after I retire, Addy. With my condition getting worse, I don't think I'll be working much longer." Pam's expression is a mix of happiness and sorrow. "So, Leigh, let me tell you about my physical condition."
 
 
Pam explained that both she and her daughter have a degenerative nerve condition that is likely genetic. I remember Sam telling me about going to see Dr. Moore to get her Milwaukee brace prescribed years ago and how the doctor mentioned her daughter wears the same type of brace as Sam. I also remember Sam telling me that her doctor wore an AFO on her left leg at that time. Pam explained that in her case, she started to lose movement and sensation in her left foot and leg, which finally required her to wear a KAFO.
 
 
As Pam's condition progressed, she had to wear KAFOs on both legs and use crutches or a wheelchair. Now she is in HKAFOs and using a wheelchair almost exclusively, but like me, she can get around easily on crutches. I asked her if she had any idea how quickly her condition would worsen further.
 
 
"I don't know Leigh... No one knows. If I live long enough, I'll likely end up completely paralyzed and on a ventilator, but hopefully it won't come to that. Things get worse, then stabilize for several years. Only time will tell." Pam explains her situation as tears come to Addy's eyes. Pam hugs Addy and says, "It's OK, dear; hopefully things won't get too bad too soon. I know you will take good care of me and that I love you very much."
 
 
Now that we had all learned quite a lot about each other, the conversation turned to lighter topics. Pam and Addy talked about traveling after Pam retires, and I told them about the redevelopment project that Joel is involved with. They had read about the project in the news, and I explained how the area around our shop is being reinvented. The old factories and warehouses are being converted to housing, retail, and commercial. What is hoped is that the neighborhood will become its own self-contained little town with everything the residents need. Someone could live, do their grocery shopping, go to work, and have fun possibly all in the same building. Pam was glad the old buildings were being saved and expressed interest in investing in the project. 
 
 
All in all, we had a wonderful chat. I could tell that, even though they have worked and lived together for a long time and love each other very much, Pam and Addy are still learning about each other's minds and bodies. Their playful banter was heartwarming, and Addy is very concerned about Pam's health. We agreed to get together often, and they want to meet all my friends. It was a great day, and I enjoyed talking openly to new friends about my lifestyle.

Ch. 194 - MJ BioTronics II
 
 
Judy and I are on our way to MJ BioTronics; we are excited yet nervous. The hour-long trip seemed to take an eternity, but we finally pulled up to a large building in an industrial park with many nondescript buildings that looked alike. There were quite a few cars in the parking lots, with many trucks backed up to loading docks. This seemed to be a small-scale manufacturing and warehousing complex, not what we were expecting for a medical research facility. After some difficulty, we finally found Myra's office with a very small sign reading 'MJ BioTronics' above the door.
 
 
Judy parked the car in one of the reserved parking spots that was simply marked with the suite number but no business name. As we crutched towards the entrance, we noticed a camera above the door, then the door buzzed and began to open. We looked at each other with nervousness and almost turned back; we both had a bit of a creepy feeling. However, we crutched inside the small lobby, which had an old couch, some dust covered boxes, and not much else except for an old pair of crutches leaning in the corner. A tall and well-built man with a long graying ponytail limped into the room wearing a MJ BioTronics T-shirt, worn-out blue jeans, and sport sandals. 
 
 
"Hi! You must be Leigh and Judy. I'm Myra's husband, Mike, and I do all the engineering and programming here. It's a pleasure to finally meet you; Myra has told me a lot about you two ladies." Mike smiled as he spoke with a deep but caring voice.
 
 
I introduced Judy and myself, and seeing us on crutches, Mike said, "I'll shake your hands after you take a seat. Let me take you to Myra's office." We followed Mike, who leaned on the wall as he limped along the hallway, passing several offices, a break room with a full kitchen, fully accessible restrooms that appeared to have showers, and what looked like a medical exam room with a lot of computer equipment, before arriving at Myra's office. 
 
 
The office was well appointed, with a large leather couch and two recliners; we both felt very comfortable in these surroundings. Myra sat strapped in her wheelchair at her desk, dressed very casually in a T-shirt that matched Mike's. Her hair was up in a messy bun, and she was wearing no makeup. When Myra wheeled out from behind her desk, she was simply wearing a pair of shorts with her feet bare and making no attempt to hide her catheter bag or scarred, withered legs. She wheeled over to Judy and me, extended her arms, and we leaned over to hug her.
 
 
"Good morning, girls! I'm so glad you could come today. I see you have met Mike. He's a great guy, and despite his little disability, he takes excellent care of me." Myra winks at Mike.
 
 
Mike left the office, closing the door behind him, with Judy and I taking a seat on the couch with Myra sitting in her wheelchair facing us. Judy, being her usual inquisitive self, bluntly asks Myra, "What happened to Mike? Why does he limp so badly?" Myra explained that he was a football player in high school and then went to college on a football scholarship. Mike played tight end, and his team even made it to the Rose Bowl, where his left leg was badly broken. It never healed correctly, and it left him with a gimpy leg ('gimpy' was the term Myra used).
 
 
We talked for a while more, just getting to know each other better as friends. After about an hour or so, Myra suggested that we get the formalities of the day out of the way and begin our interviews. She explained that everything would be confidential and that she was now acting as a medical researcher and not as a friend, which we understood would be the case at times. Myra also explained that some of the questions would be extremely personal but necessary for her research. Since Judy was my inspiration for 'letting go of my legs', Myra wanted to do part of the interview with us together. We agreed since we already knew all there was to know about each other. Myra wheeled over to her desk and set a small video camera to film Judy and me being interviewed.
 
 
Before the camera was turned on, Myra told us that we could use our real names, initials, or a made-up name. We chose simply to use our first names; we have nothing to hide. We were also told that after our interview was transcribed, we would have a chance to review it before it went on record. With that all said, Myra turned on the camera and began the interview.
 
 
The questions asked were simple at first: our names, sex, ages, sexual orientation, marital status, education, employment, our relationship to each other, and to give a brief biography. Then we were asked to describe our current health status, including the reason we are wearing the braces that we are wearing, including our orthodontic braces and appliances. Myra had a bit of a shocked look on her face as I explained the details of my orthodontic braces and the fact that I can immobilize my jaw at will with my modified Herbst appliance. Many questions were asked about our orthodontics, our feelings towards our appliances, and why we have the ones we don't really need. 
 
 
Then we were asked why we chose to do what we have done to our bodies. Judy explained how Collene contracted polio and that she wanted to be just like her sister—crippled. This is something that Myra asked a lot of detailed questions about, since part of her ultimate goal is to allow friends and family to experience what their handicapped loved ones experience. Judy was asked how Collene felt about what she had done and to talk a little about her relationship with Jimmy and his thoughts about her decision to live as a handicapped person. After these questions were answered, I was asked the same things and to tell about how Judy inspired me to let go of my legs. We both also stated that our husbands have leg and back braces that are worn for pleasure only, Jimmy has unnecessary orthodontic appliances, and everything that Joel has in his mouth is recreational. 
 
 
The interview went on for quite a while, with Myra seeming to have a very personal interest in our lives at times. Finally, the first part of the interview was over, and Myra said, "First, thanks so much for sharing your stories with me for my research. It will be a great help in evaluating future clients, and I thank you for being so open. Second, you two are not just participants in my research; you are my friends also. You have both told me some very personal things, and I hope that I never accidentally betray your confidence in a social setting."
 
 
We both assured Myra that we are very open people and to not worry if something slips out accidentally. With that, Myra said she needed to interview each of us privately for a few minutes, then we would meet Gracie and have lunch. 
 
 
I was the first for the final part of the interview. Myra called Mike to escort Judy to the break room for a cup of coffee, leaving me alone with Myra. She then explained that what Judy and I have done is considered by mainstream psychology to be a form of self-harm. However, she doesn't see it that way and wants to change the perspective of the profession. She likens what we have done to being the same as an amputation to prevent the spread of infection or the fusion of a joint where function is lost for a greater gain. That's how Myra views what Judy and I have done and what Gracie does when she uses the BioTronic device for pleasure. We lose physical function to gain emotional function. The last few questions focused on actual self-harm through either deliberate injury or surgical means by underground practitioners. I answered no to these questions, but I had a question for Myra.
 
 
"So, Myra, you are working on an implantable device to accomplish the things that Judy, Gracie, and I desire. Won't this be considered a surgical procedure to cause harm since it renders a part of the body useless?" I inquired.
 
 
"The way I and many of my colleagues see it, no. It is a completely reversible procedure to treat paraphilias, not a form of deliberate injury or an unnecessary procedure. The device can be turned off or removed, and physical therapy would restore function to weakened muscles. Technically, people like yourself have a psychological disorder. Normal treatment involves trying to discourage the types of feelings you have. However, I believe it is better to embrace them, and I have devised a treatment to allow that—a rather unique treatment that the patient will greatly enjoy." Myra confidently and reassuringly explained.
 
 
I now left the room and made my way to the break room, and Judy went into Myra's office for the final part of her interview. It wasn't too long before Myra came wheeling out with Judy crutching behind her. Myra then showed us around the facility, which was a lot like the design area of Joel's old electronics business. In the warehouse, we met Myra's sister, Gracie, who was packing boxes for shipment. She, of course, is a few years older than Myra, and they have similar features. Gracie was simply wearing a denim skirt and t-shirt with Keds on her feet. Her black hair was spiked, and she wore several earrings in each ear and a silver ring in her septum—a look that really fit her.
 
 
"So you are the ladies that have interests similar to mine, and boy, it looks like you have done something about it! Just look at those beautiful back and leg braces you're wearing and your cute orthodontic braces." Gracie says with excitement.
 
 
"Tell us what it is like to use the device, Gracie. Myra tells us you have been doing some of the testing, and you also enjoy it in your off time." Judy asks as Gracie blushes.
 
 
"Yes, please tell us. We are really curious." I add enthusiastically.
 
 
Myra then says, "I'll leave you three alone to talk about your unique desires, and I'll go get us lunch. There is a great burger joint in the complex across the road." Gracie then goes to the corner of the warehouse and wheels over two very nice but well-used wheelchairs; they must be Myra's old chairs, and she says, "Here, take a load off, and you two can help me work while we talk. I have to get this shipment out to the Army this afternoon." 
 
 
There wasn't much we could do sitting in wheelchairs, but we did do a lot of talking. We told Gracie our story and said it was fine with us if Myra showed her our interview video to learn about us. Gracie then asked if Myra had told us anything about her, and I said that she had the night we met at the convention. With tears coming to her eyes, Gracie said, "So you know all about the incident? I still can't get over everything; it haunts me all the time. The only time I feel better is when I use the device to paralyze myself. Then somehow, it makes me feel complete and linked to Myra and her plight. I plan to get the implantable version when Mike finalizes the software and live life with the same disability that Myra has. I think that's what you both plan to do, isn't it?"
 
 
Judy explained that she wishes to experience the same disability that her sister Collene has for the rest of her life. I never gave much thought to things, but I said that I wanted to be paralyzed forever like our friend Flora. It was then that Myra's voice came over the intercom—she had arrived with lunch.
 
 
Over lunch, we all chatted and got to know Mike a bit better. He said that very soon he would have the final version of the software for the external device ready for Judy, Gracie, and myself. Mike then asked if Judy and I wear our spinal braces full time, and we explained that we did—we are almost completely dependent on them at this point. He then said he would modify the device to mount to our back braces instead of using the adhesive pads; it would be more comfortable that way. We thought that it was a great idea, and Gracie's eyes lit up.
 
 
"Do you think that I could get a back brace like yours to wear with my device?" Gracie asks us.
 
 
"Sure, call my sister Collene and set up an appointment. She and her husband, Billy, own an orthotics shop. You can talk to them about getting whatever type of brace you desire to wear with your device.But please, don't mention you know Leigh and I; we are keeping this all a secret." Judy was excited to find someone else who desired the pleasure of wearing an orthopedic brace.
 
 
After lunch, we chatted with Mike in his office about exactly what we wanted to experience. He says that what we want should be no problem, then proceeds to show us the prototype of the implantable version. He explains that it is was initially designed for pain control but can also be programmed to provide what Judy, Gracie, and I desire. Mike then goes on to tell us that the final version will have two sets of electrodes that can be placed at different locations along the spine to allow more control of the experience. We learned a lot from Mike, and I understood a lot of the technical jargon from listening to Joel and Pete, who are always working with electronics. Mike needed to get back to work, so we went and spent the rest of the afternoon with Gracie.
 
 
We talked with Gracie for a while more, and we really hit it off. She is a great person and is so full of compassion. However, we wanted to get on our way, so we were home before the guys arrived from work. Judy and I have told no one about what we plan to do, but of course Jackie has probably figured things out.
 
 
Judy and I can still move our legs a bit, and our feet spasm when tickled. I can't wait to see the look on Joel's face when I ask him to rub my feet and legs, and he finds them completely limp and unresponsive to his touch. It will blow him away!

Ch. 196 - MJ BioTronics III
 
 
Judy and I got a text message the other day from Gracie at MJ BioTronics. She informed us that Mike had finished the software for the device to simulate various disabilities caused by spinal cord injuries or disease. We set a date to visit to get our devices to try out. Judy and I will finally get to experience what it is like to be paralyzed, and it's all very exciting to us. No one knows that we have visited with Myra except for Jackie and Ben, and that is only because Jackie set up our initial meeting. We have not told anyone about the external devices that we will be trying out or that we plan to get devices implanted in our bodies to paralyze us.
 
 
When we spoke to Gracie, she offered to have us stay with her for a few days to get used to our paralysis. Since we had hit it off so well when we first met, and we have been texting and talking quite a bit, we graciously accepted her offer. It will be interesting to spend time with someone who has the same desires as Judy and me. We have also spoken to Mike and Myra several times to discuss what we wanted to experience with the devices.
 
 
Gracie did suggest a few things to us since she said she has been using her device for the last few weeks and only removes it to bathe. She suggested that we bring the following: manual wheelchairs, power chairs, and strap-on heeled shoes so our heels hold our feet in place on the footrests of our wheelchairs. She also suggested that I bring along a Milwaukee brace without KAFOs attached and that we should either bring diapers or use catheters; we opted for catheters.
 
 
Judy and I taking a trip together won't arouse any suspicion with Joel or Jimmy. It's not unusual for us to take short trips together, especially since Judy works remotely most of the time these days. We told Jimmy and Joel that we were going to the city for a few days, and that was not a lie. After a few days with Gracie, we are going to the city for a few days as truly handicapped ladies. 
 
 
I packed one of my old Milwaukee braces, one without KAFOs attached. It will be enjoyable to just wear my spinal brace without anything on my legs and just a pair of regular shoes on my feet—shoes that will not see any walking. I had several pairs of new heels that are too high to ever wear with my HKAFOs, so I picked out a pair of black boots with high block heels; they will go with any outfit. Judy didn't have any shoes that were not already modified for her braces, but I happened to have a pair that were a bit too big for me that fit her fine—a nice pair of strappy, heeled sandals. Judy enjoys driving our limo bus, so it was no problem to take both our manual and power wheelchairs, too.
 
 
We all got together for breakfast as usual before leaving on our journey. Myra had told us not to arrive too early; she and Mike were being interviewed for a paper that will be published in the American Journal of Psychology. We took back roads to enjoy the scenery and arrived at MJ BioTronics just before noon. When we wheeled up to the door, it opened automatically as before, and the lobby had new furnishings and pictures on the walls. It was much more inviting than before.
 
 
Just as we entered, Gracie wheeled into the room in a sleek manual wheelchair just like ours. She was wearing scrubs with white Keds on her feet. Her legs were strapped to the leg rests of her wheelchair, and there was also a strap around her lower body. From her stiff posture, I could tell Gracie was wearing a spinal brace of some sort, and it appeared that she was paralyzed from the waist down. Gracie warmly greeted us with hugs, which was awkward for us in our wheelchairs, especially for Gracie since she was strapped into hers, and she said, "It's so good to see you ladies again. Let's order lunch, and I'll tell you all about what the last two weeks have been like for me. Myra and Mike will be back soon; they are having lunch with the people from the AJP."
 
 
We went to Gracie's office, and she recommended we only have a light lunch with what will be going on later. Judy and I decided to split a burger and fries, and Gracie placed the order for delivery. Then she began to tell us what the last two weeks have been like, paralyzed like her sister.
 
 
"I've been using the device for the last few weeks. I got a plastic TSLO brace made with a pocket in the back for the device, and it's very comfortable once I got used to wearing it. I only take it off to bathe, and the rest of the time I am paralyzed, just like Myra. My boyfriend, Larry, has been extremely supportive. He just wants to see me happy, no matter what it takes, and I think he has a thing for crippled girls, too."
 
 
"Most of the time, I have the device setup to exactly simulate Myra's condition, including the bowel issues she has and the need for a urinary catheter. I do experiment with other things, like partial paralysis and a situation like Collene's, where I have feelings but no movement. I'm trying to figure out exactly how I want to live when I get my implant, but I think it will be just like Myra."
 
 
"Myra has been extremely supportive, too. She thinks it's very therapeutic for me to experience what life is like for her, and when I'm paralyzed, I no longer feel the guilt that I always used to feel. However, when I am bathing and I'm not paralyzed, those feelings of guilt and sadness return. Larry says I'm a different person when I'm paralyzed; I'm much more outgoing and loving, which he really likes. We even make love with me paralyzed, and it is amazing. I can sort of feel him inside me; my body responds to stimulation, and I still get very wet. Myra asked how it felt, out of personal curiosity and for her research, and she says she responds to sexual stimulation in a similar manner."
 
 
Gracie told us a few more things about living as a paralyzed woman, much of which Judy and I already knew from letting go of our legs. Over lunch, we enjoyed light conversation and made plans for the evening. This will be the first outing for Judy and me using the device, and we are both really excited. While we were eating, Myra and Mike arrived, both dressed very nicely; Myra looked ravishing strapped into her manual wheelchair. She joined us to chat, and Mike wanted to change into something more comfortable for the afternoon.
 
 
After our meal, Gracie suggested that we visit the bathroom and then meet in Mike's office. She explained that when her device was being trained to her body, she had an issue with bowel and bladder control. Judy and I did as Gracie recommended, then wheeled into Mike's office. He was now wearing a t-shirt, shorts, and sandals and looked much more at home than he did in a suit. Mike then explained what we would experience today and that things would only take a few minutes.
 
 
Mike, being very familiar with Myra's brace, could tell I was wearing HKAFOs, and he asked, "Leigh, do you intend to walk using your leg braces or do you plan to be confined to your wheelchair?"
 
 
"I brought one of my old Milwaukee braces without HKAFOs. I want to wear that brace for a few days, then I'll try walking with my HKAFO-Milwaukee brace before going to the city." I replied.
 
 
"That sounds great, Leigh. I can help you learn to walk in your HKAFO-Milwaukee before you leave for the city. When you swap the device from one of your braces to the other, just make sure it is at exactly the same level on your spine. How about you, Judy? What are your intentions?" Mike inquires with a smile.
 
 
"I want to be like my sister Collie, with just my legs not working. However, I do want to experience what Leigh wants—to be like Myra and our friend Flora. I'll use my wheelchair when I'm completely paralyzed." Judy says with a hint of excitement.
 
 
"OK, then, let's go and make your dreams come true." Mike says with a smile.
 
 
We follow Gracie to a large room with a hospital bed, several computers, and two racks full of electronic equipment while Mike goes to the bus to get my old Milwaukee brace and our shoes. He and Myra soon join us, and, with a warm smile, Mike asks, "Who's first?" Judy and I looked at each other, and without saying a word, a game of roshambo settled the matter. Judy's paper wrapped up my rock—she would go first. Mike then helped her out of her wheelchair and onto the table. 
 
 
Once on the table, Mike helped Judy undress and take off her KAFOs and Milwaukee brace. He then placed the device with its numerous electrodes on Judy's back. Then Mike had Judy lay down on a pad that looked like a heating pad. Mike explained that the pad allows the device to communicate with the computer as it is trained to respond to our nervous systems. He said there might be some muscle spasms and feelings of pain, but nothing too uncomfortable. Mike also said he believes he corrected the problem that caused Gracie to lose bowel control during the training of her device. With us understanding everything, the procedure got underway.
 
 
Mike sat at the computer, and the first thing he had Judy do was move her legs, hips, and feet. Her hips moved fine, but her legs and feet barely moved—not from the device but because they were so weak from years of immobilization. It didn't matter since all Mike was concerned about was the nerve impulses, not actual movement. Next, he had her attempt to move her bowels, and then, despite having a catheter inside her, he had her try to urinate. Mike explained that this is to isolate the nerve impulses associated with these activities so the device would not affect them unless we desired it to.
 
 
The final part of training the device was very interesting. There was a device that looked like an electric razor attached to a long, coiled cord connected to the rack of electronic equipment. Mike explained that this is a stimulator used to map the nerve impulses involved with feeling. The device would be run over our feet, legs, and lower abdomen, and this might be the uncomfortable part. For Gracie, it tickled, but when Mike used it on himself, it felt like a mild electric shock. For both Mike and Gracie, it caused muscle spasms.
 

This device was then slowly run along Judy's feet, legs, and body, keeping clear of her vagina and anus. As Mike was doing this procedure, he said that the loss of sensation would not go overly deep into our bodies, so if we fractured our leg or had other deep-seated pain, we would feel it no matter what. Judy said the procedure tickled, despite having several muscle spasms in her thighs and feet.
 
 
Once this was all done, Mike finalized the programming and removed the device from Judy's back. The adhesive pad was removed, and the device was mounted left upright on her Milwaukee brace. Mike helped Judy into her back brace and then helped her get dressed, but she did not put on her KAFOs. She just put on the heeled sandals I gave her. Judy transferred to her wheelchair, and Mike assisted me up and onto the table. I undressed, and Mike got me out of my HKAFO-Milwaukee brace without too much effort. He said he was used to assisting Myra, but the superstructure of my brace added a bit of complication. My device was placed on my back, and the training procedure began. It was exactly like what was done for Judy, but to me, it felt like an electric shock, and I had some violent spasms in my legs and feet. It wasn't too painful; it was just a very odd sensation.
 
 
Once the programming was finalized, the device was mounted to my old purple Milwaukee brace, and I put my brace and clothing back on with my boots on my feet. Mike assisted me in getting back in my wheelchair and suggested that both Judy and I be strapped in tightly for safety. Mike got two well-padded straps from a drawer and strapped us into our wheelchairs. Then, he handed us each a controller for our devices and explained how to operate them. 
 
 
The first thing was to program a PIN to prevent unauthorized access. Judy and I chose the same PIN, 1638. (See if you can guess why and put it in the comments.) Once the PIN was programmed, the main menu came up. Since Mike knew we wished to simulate the disabilities of our friends, the menu items were simply listed as Off, Collene, Flora, Myra, and a fourth option, Custom. Under custom, specific options, such as varying levels of paralysis and feeling, along with bladder and bowel control options, could be set.
 
 
We were then told that we didn't need to keep the controller nearby, as the device on our backs would maintain whatever mode we had it set to. Then we were shown the charging mat to put under our mattress pad to charge the device at night while we slept, but that only needs to be done twice a month. It was also explained that the devices can detect elevated heartbeats and other signs of fear, excitement, or arousal and can be set to randomly cause muscle spasms at these times. I recalled Flora having spasms when she would get excited or teased by Sarah.
 
 
Mike and Myra asked us if we had any questions, and we had none. We were just anxious to turn the device on and experiment with the settings. Myra suggested that Judy and I retire to the lounge to turn on our devices in private. We went to the comfortable lounge, and Mike helped us into the soft leather recliners. Gracie said if we needed anything, just pick up the phone and push the autodial for whomever we wanted to speak to. 
 
 
Myra, Mike, and Gracie wished us well and left us alone to turn on our devices and experience what being truly disabled is actually like.

Ch. 198 - Blake, Chris, and Donna
 
 
While Judy and I were on our trip, Blake and Chris had an orthodontic appointment. They're making excellent progress with their WEDDs (Wilkinson External Distraction Devices) and will be getting them removed at their next appointment. During that visit, Billy also removed Blake's 'comfort casts', and she is doing quite well without them.
 
 
However, Blake is still having some knee and ankle pain, plus some discomfort in her wrists and thumbs. But while she was in her 'comfort casts', her casted ankle and wrist didn't hurt at all. She's going to get checked out when they visit over the long weekend.
 

******
 
 
When Blake and Chris arrived for the weekend, the back seat of their Buick was filled with all their braces. Billy is going to make minor repairs, refinish the metal, and condition the leather on all their braces. The young couple got settled in our guest suite, then went to visit Blake's parents, saying they would be late and not to wait up for them.
 
 
The next morning, we had breakfast with all our friends. Everyone was glad to see Blake and Chris and was happy that they'd be getting their WEDDs removed later today. After breakfast, Billy asked Blake, "Hey, can Collie and I just take your car to the shop today since all your braces are already loaded up?" 
 
 
"I'll drive everyone in the little bus today; you won't need your car." Judy adds, and Chris hands the keys to Billy.
 
 
We said goodbye to Billy and Collie; we will see them again later today. The guys head off to the bus shop, and Judy, Rebekah, and I will be accompanying Chris and Blake to their appointments today. Judy crutched out to get the bus, and we all got on board. As we are pulling up to the main road, Blake says, "We need to stop and pick up my mom. Dr. Moore is going to check out her back; she has been having severe pain recently." 
 
 
We picked up Donna, who was very nervous, and we made our way to Dr. Pam Moore's office. Once there, Blake and Donna were taken back to an exam room together. It was well over an hour before I got a text from Blake, "Almost done... Mom is really upset."
 
 
Donna and Blake entered the waiting room with Dr. Moore, who was in her wheelchair today. Pam said to Donna, "Don't worry about Blake; she'll be fine. The medication should halt the progression and maybe even reverse it to some degree. Don't worry about your spine, either. You will quickly get used to wearing your brace; you'll do quite well. I'll call over to Rogers & Jameson with your prescriptions and to the pharmacy for Blake's medication."
 
 
"It will be OK, Blake. Don't worry." Donna, with tears in her eyes, hugs her daughter.
 
 
"You're more worried than I am, mom. I'm fine, and it's all kind of exciting to tell you the truth." Blake says smiling.
 
 
"If you don't mind, I'm going to take a walk while you are at the orthodontist, Blake. You have Chris and your friends; I don't think I'm much good for giving you support right now." Donna says this as she hugs both Blake and Chris before going to the park.
 
 
As we made our way to Dr. Joe's office, Blake explained what happened. "I don't know why my mom is so upset; she knew she would need a back brace. She's worn one of my Milwaukee braces, and despite not fitting well, it did relieve her pain. However, I think what really upset her was what the doctor told me. Pam says I have a form of arthritis that is common in people with my hypermobility issue. I'll have to take medication to prevent it from getting worse, and it might even get better over time. What really bothered mom is that I'll be getting some modifications made to my leg braces, and I'll need to use crutches sometimes. I'll also need to wear wrist braces when I'm on crutches or when my wrists hurt. Honestly, I'm kind of excited about it all. I actually enjoy wearing all my braces now and find them comforting, like when wearing casts for fun. Now I'll get to wear wrist braces and use crutches, too!"
 
 
Once we got to Dr. Joe's office, we talked with Sally for a few minutes. She is out of her walking casts, and still wearing her bands, large tongue crib, and colorful headgear. As with when Blake and Chris got their WEDDs applied, the removal process would be filmed. Judy, Rebekah, and I made ourselves at home in Joe's office while Blake removed her Milwaukee brace for the procedure. The video monitor was turned on, and then Sally took Blake and Chris to have their WEDDs removed.
 
 
As we watched the monitor, Chris took to the chair first, and it was reclined as Blake sat on a stool and held his hand. First, the ratcheting adjusters that threaded onto the rods protruding from Chris's mouth were released and removed. He looked relieved to no longer have the device pulling on his teeth. Next, the locking caps on the six pins securing the device to his skull were removed. Mary positioned herself at the head of the chair, with Joe and Sally on either side. They first removed the center pins on each side simultaneously. Chris winced as this was done. I know how uncomfortable it is to get halo brace pins removed from your skull, and I hoped that these smaller pins didn't hurt quite as much.
 
 
Mary held on to the WEDD to support it as the final four pins were removed. Mary then slid the device forward and off of the rods protruding from Chris's mouth. He seemed very relieved that the process was over, and Sally put some ointment on the pin sites. The chair was raised, and Chris said something to Blake, probably trying to reassure her that the procedure wasn't too painful. The rest of the appliance was still in place in his mouth, with the rods protruding from between his lips as he swapped places with Blake.
 
 
The removal of Blake's WEDD began. When the adjustment ratchets were released, she seemed to be very relieved. The pressure on her teeth must still have been very intense. Now the pins were removed, which appeared to be quite uncomfortable for Blake, but she did really well holding back her tears. Once the procedure was over, we saw Mary leave the room, and soon she appeared in Joe's office with us. She said we could all go in and watch the rest of the procedure; Blake and Chris wanted us there.
 
 
We made our way to the procedure room, and Blake was still in the chair, rubbing her temples. Joe and Sally then got to work removing the appliance that Blake has been wearing on her upper arch for many months. It took quite a bit of work with the de-banding pliers, and once the appliance was out of her mouth, we were all amazed by how large it was. Watching it being applied on the video monitor was nothing like seeing it in person. There were heavy wires that ran behind all her teeth and spider web-like wires across the roof of her mouth to maintain expansion.
 
 
Sally then cleaned Blake's teeth, and her new appliances were placed. They were just like she had before beginning WEDD treatment, with a palatal expander, Bluegrass appliance, full bands, and small hooks for protraction that protruded from between her lips. Her lower archwire was changed, and all her ligatures were now bright neon green.
 
 
Chris then took his seat in the chair once again; he would be getting the exact same appliances as Blake. As Joe and Sally were working on Chris, Blake was very talkative, and she spoke with the same lisp as she had before WEDD treatment. She sounded so cute, and we could all tell that Chris loved her lispy speech. Soon, all of Chris's new appliances were placed, along with a new lower archwire. He chose the same color ligatures as Blake, so they matched. When he tried to speak, he had a very strong lisp, was salivating quite a bit, and was having difficulty swallowing. 
 
 
"This feels so weird, and I can hardly talk now." Chris says this with his new and severe speech impediment.
 
 
"Oh, you sound so cute, Chris. I love your lisp. Let me give you a kiss—our first kiss in months." Blake and Chris embrace and kiss passionately, careful of the small hooks protruding from between their lips, with Blake exploring the cause of Chris's lisp with her tongue. 
 
 
Joe then explained that since Chris enjoys wearing his Kuehnegger brace at night, Billy made an orthodontic attachment for it. He also gave them both new reverse pull headgear to use if they were not wearing their back braces, along with several bags of strong elastics. Joe begins to explain the next stage of their treatment.
 
 
"Now I want you both to use one of your protraction devices for sixteen hours a day and full time on your days off. This is necessary to prevent your teeth from relapsing back to their previous positions. Oh, and Chris, you need to turn your expander once a week, but you don't need to turn yours right now, Blake. It is just to make minor adjustments later on if necessary." 
 
 
Chris and Blake got up and went to Joe's office so she could put her Milwaukee brace back on. The rest of us went to the waiting room, where we found Donna sitting and playing with her phone. She looked much less stressed than earlier; her walk did her some good. When Chris and Blake entered the room, Donna was very happy to see them carrying, instead of wearing, their WEDDs. We decided to go grab a bite to eat before Blake and Chris's teeth began to ache from their new appliances and archwires.
 
 
As we were having lunch, Blake very excitedly told her mom about what it would be like to get her 3D scan made for her back brace. Blake also told her that wearing a back brace is fun and that she would really like wearing hers. Donna wasn't as enthusiastic, but she was looking forward to her pain being relieved.
 
 
Later in the afternoon, when we arrived at the orthotics shop, Billy took Donna back to get her 3D scan for her braces, with Blake happily going along. The rest of us stayed behind to talk with Collie, who wanted to see the appliances in Chris's mouth and hear about their orthodontic appointment. Donna and Blake spent quite a bit of time with Billy, almost two hours, which is much longer than necessary to do the 3D scan.
 
 
We were quite surprised when Blake crutched into the office wearing her newly reconditioned KAFOs that now had locks at the knees and ankles. She was also wearing her reconditioned Kuehnegger brace with the orthodontic attachment with elastics between it and the hooks on her upper arch. On both wrists, Blake wore neon green 3D-printed SATS braces and had special grips on her crutches; they were just like the ones Judy and I got at the orthopedics trade show. The most important thing was that Blake was all smiles and very happy to show off her modified KAFOs, new SATS braces, and crutches.
 
 
"Look at what Billy did for me. He limited the range of motion a bit more and put locks on my KAFOs to better support my knees and ankles when they hurt. I got crutches and these cool wrist braces, too. Whenever I'm using my crutches or when my wrists or thumbs hurt, I need to wear them. They are so cool, and I'm getting them in several colors, too. I love them!" Blake said, full of glee.
 
 
We were impressed with Billy's quick work, and Blake had us all take a close look at everything. She's very excited, and we all hoped she would stay that way; we well remember her past meltdowns.
 
 
"Come on, Chris, Billy has your big brace ready with the part that connects to all the stuff on your upper teeth, just like I have. You'll look so cute wearing it." Blake says this while tugging on Chris's arm.
 
 
Chris and Blake go into the fitting room, and they soon return to the office with Chris in his Kuehnegger brace and orthodontic attachment, with Billy and Donna following. Billy said to Donna, "I'll have all your braces done by Monday afternoon. We're open tomorrow, and I have several interns coming in. We'll fabricate your new braces and finish refurbishing Chris and Blake's braces, too." 
 
 
Over the weekend, Blake seemed to enjoy wearing her newly modified KAFOs and using her crutches while wearing her SATS braces. Since Billy was working on all her other back braces, she wore her Kuehnegger brace all weekend, which is her preferred brace to wear anyway. I spent some time alone with Donna, talking about the braces she would be wearing and trying to reassure her that they would not be as bad as she imagined.
 

******

 
The weekend flew by—before I knew it, it was Monday afternoon—and I was on my way with Blake, Donna, and Chris to the orthotics shop. Donna was quiet, seeming both nervous and excited. I know she wants her back pain to go away, no matter what kind of brace she must wear.
 
 
Once at the shop, all of Chris and Blake's braces were on a cart, including two pairs of crutches, red and blue in color, and 3D printed SATS to match all her spinal braces. Billy helped Chris get the braces loaded into the car. When they returned, Billy, Blake, and Donna, who looked terrified, went to the fitting room, with Blake saying, "It will be OK, mom. You will look so cute in your braces, and you'll feel so much better, too!"
 
 
About an hour later, Donna, Blake, and Billy entered the office. Blake was holding onto her mother's arm, guiding her along since her brace tilted her head back slightly. Donna's brown leather Kuhenegger brace had pads that pushed her shoulders back and held her head high. She looked completely at ease and confident wearing it despite its rigid support from her hips to her head, providing perfect posture. Billy was carrying Donna's brown Milwaukee brace and Blake's crutches. He reminded Donna that she is to wear her Kuehnegger for at least sixteen hours a day or more, depending on her pain level, and to only be out of her braces for an hour or two for exercise.
 
 
We said goodbye to Billy and Collie, with Donna thanking them. As we were walking to the car, Blake asked her mom how her very immobilizing and supportive brace felt. Donna's simple reply was, "It feels absolutely wonderful, honey! My pain is melting away."

Ch. 200 - The End?
 
 
Sorry, but I had to tease you with the title of this chapter. In one way, this is the end, but it is also a new beginning, and 'New Beginning' or NB is how subsequent chapters will be titled. I'll still be writing for you sometimes, but my friends want to tell you their stories in their own words, as Sarah and some others have done in the past. Some will be just a chapter or two, while others will be longer, like a story withing a story. However, I'll still keep you updated on what's going on in my life, my adventures with Joel, and the new business that we have been working on, 'The Clinic', which most of us are involved in. We have been doing a lot of planning and work, and things are falling into place. It will still be many months before we open, and I'll tell you the complete story later on, just before we open.
 
 
I also wanted to take a moment to thank you, my loyal readers, both new and old. Especially those who have been following my story since the beginning, offering suggestions for adventures and giving advice. The adventure Judy is about to begin was suggested to her by several of you. Being from a background working with numbers, my writing wasn't so good at the start, and thanks for sticking with me as my ability to tell stories improved. Thank you, friends!
 
 
But now, Judy is getting ready for the biggest recreational orthopedic adventure of her life. If you recall, she has not revealed to anyone that she got a BioTronic implant when I got mine. Everyone thinks she went along to assist and support me when I had my procedure. Only myself, Myra, Mike, Gracie, and Larry know that Judy also got an implant, and they have kept it secret. Judy has only been able to enjoy the paralyzing effects of her device when she is alone or with me. Jimmy and all our friends have no idea that she has had the device implanted in her body.
 
 
That will soon change. Judy has one hell of a plan, and all the arrangements have been made. She will be revealing the fact she has a BioTronic implant in grand style and will enjoy the rec-ortho experience of a lifetime when she does. Judy will tell you about how she is going to reveal her BioTronic implant to Jimmy and the world. I know her plan, but it's Judy's story to tell.
 
 
Oh, by the way, I am very much enjoying living as a truly handicapped woman by using my BioTronic implant. At this point, everyone knows about it, with all my friends being very supportive and several of them being extremely jealous. No one knows about Judy's implant yet, and we won't give out the external BioTronic devices that Mike gave us until after Judy begins her adventure. We figure that Rebekah, Emme, and Kathy will really enjoy using them, and they can be easily mounted to their Milwaukee braces. We'll give one to Pam to present to Addison, too. Addy really wants to be able to understand what Pam's life is like, and the BioTronic device will allow her this experience.
 
 
You all pretty much know my old morning and evening routines when it comes to my various braces. Since getting my implant, things have been so much different and, actually, a bit easier. I'm much more independent now than ever before. I don't need Joel to put me in and get me out of my nighttime brace to keep my body immobilized and supported when I sleep anymore, unless, of course, he wants me in it to fool around. I also just wear one of my new spinal braces and use my wheelchair almost all of the time; I'm rarely in my HKAFOs anymore unless it's a special occasion or, for some reason, I really need to be on my feet. I'm excited to share with you what my life is like now that my legs have been rendered completely useless, but I'll let Judy begin to tell you about her adventure first.
 
 
I'm going to send this file to Judy so she can add the opening paragraph to her story, just to tease you all a little bit. But first, let me give some quick updates on how everyone is doing and what they are up to. I know some of you worry about our friends if you don't hear anything about them for a while, but everything is all good.
 
 
First, most of us are in sort of a status quo when it comes to our orthopedics and orthodontics. Most everyone now has perfect teeth but are still wearing braces just to wear braces and other appliances. However, several of the ladies and Chris are still in active treatment, and Sam and Millie will soon be out of their active treatment phase. Emme still has very crooked teeth in front, but her bite has been corrected in the back. Her bands and special archwires simply retain her teeth in their crooked position. She absolutely loves her banded, wonky teeth and wearing her headgear, which is completely inactive at this point. We'll have to see who decides to keep their braces, like many of us have done, and who just gets retainers. Maybe others will do like Pete and get retainers, end up hating them, and decide to get braces again with retaining archwires like so many of us. When it comes to orthodontics, we are all very happy with our metallic smiles, headgear strapped around our heads, and our mouthfuls of appliances.
 
 
We are all also very happy with our leg and back braces, too. Collene, Judy, and I, of course, walk with crutches at this point when we choose to walk, and Rebekah usually does, too. The other ladies get around just fine with their KAFOs, walking without crutches most of the time. Blake has adapted well to her situation and hasn't had any more of her epic meltdowns. Getting back together with Chris has been great for both of them; they are so happy together. Basically, we all live ordinary lives despite the braces we wear out of necessity or simply for pleasure and fashion.
 
 
Lately, Emme has been doing a lot of blindsimming. Pretty much whenever she is not at work, she is blind. She is well known in certain places as the crippled girl with orthodontic braces, headgear, and milky white blind eyes. Emme uses her white cane in one hand and a crutch in the other, and she gets along quite well. In other places that she frequents—places that she needs to sometimes go while sighted—she wears eye patches and is known for her photophobia. At these times, she has Pete or one of her friends guide her or push her in her wheelchair. Emme and Pete have even traveled quite extensively, with Emme wearing her blinding contacts for weeks on end. Judy and I are both planning our own blindsimming adventure after our experience at the retreat wearing eye patches. Since we want to portray ourselves as recently blinded for our adventure, we have not engaged in any more blindsimming or done any O&M training; we don't want to get too comfortable being blind. Once 'The Clinic' is up and running smoothly, we'll go on our adventure.
 
 
Now, onto our friends who are still dealing with real medical issues. Lori is doing great. She has built up strength and flexibility in her spine, but it seems that she will always need to wear some sort of back brace. Currently, she is wearing her Milwaukee brace or her special CTLSO that allows her to move her head during the day, and then she wears her Kuehnegger brace at night. Her orthodontic treatment is going extremely well, but slowly, as Joe is being gentle. The little gap between her front teeth is coming back, which really pleases her. 
 
 
Oh, speaking of Lori reminds me of what is going on with Sam and Millie. They have moved into one of the renovated buildings across the street from the bus shop. Their home takes up the entire top floor, and they have a private elevator to the parking garage in the basement. The decor is so much different from their previous modern, minimalist abode. Their new home is decorated much more warmly, a lot like my place. Sam wanted to be closer to work, and Millie is changing careers. Her job in the marketing department at the skate company has become less about the skate teams and more about being a marketing executive. Changing careers is where Lori once again comes into the picture.
 
 
Lori loved her old job working at a child care center before the accident. With Millie and Sam planning to adopt a handicapped child and start a family, Lori thought it would be great to partner in a child care center with Millie. Millie will take care of the administrative side and learn how to care for children, while Lori will oversee daily operations. Lori spoke to the owners of the center she was planning to work at, and they offered to open a new center in the building where Sam and Millie live. They have hired staff, and it will be opening soon.
 
 
Blakely and Chris are doing well, too. Their orthodontic progress is slow but painless with Joe's gentle methods. Blake's modified KAFOs and thumb spica braces, along with the medication Dr. Moore prescribed her, have eliminated her joint pain. However, she still quite often wears her SATS braces and uses crutches with her leg braces locked straight, saying that she is in pain. I think she just likes the attention and the way it feels to be immobilized. I say this because when she visits and we go out, she'll often wear her Kuehnegger brace, walk with her knees locked, wear her SATS braces, and use crutches. But when we get home and she wants to ride her horse or go shooting, she simply wears her Milwaukee brace and walks just fine with her KAFOs unlocked. She and Chris, who is now always wearing his KAFOs and back brace when they visit, are extremely happy, and that is all that matters.
 
 
By the way, Blake's mom, Donna, is doing great with her back braces. She no longer has any pain at all as long as she's wearing one of them. Despite being highly immobilizing, her braces, like all the braces Billy makes, are quite comfortable. Once she got used to wearing them, Donna has grown to love her back braces and the pain relief and feeling of security and comfort they bring her. She is much like her daughter.
 
 
Both Donna and I have been wearing some new braces that Billy made for us. They are kind of like the special CTLSO that Lori often wears, but instead of the ball joint that allows her to move her head, ours have fixed neck rings. I have one in black and a second in purple. One of Donna's is brown, and the other is oxblood red. They are very stylish and comfortable braces, supporting our heads with a Milwaukee-style neck ring completely from behind. Billy must have seen Hannah's brace in Artificer4's 'Glider Girls' series. He often looks to the fantasy world for inspiration, bringing these ideas to reality in a useful and therapeutic way. Our braces are like Hannah's but made of leather and are very sleek and comfortable, plus we can easily put them on and take them off on our own. Donna and I absolutely love wearing these braces.
 
 
Donna also confided in me that her and Dave's sex lives are better than ever; she knows it's her various back braces that have spiced things up. She has also noticed that Dave does a double take when he sees a woman with orthodontic braces. Donna's teeth are not too bad, but she is thinking of getting braces anyway just to liven up the bedroom a bit more and to have something else in common with Blake.
 
 
One of the things that allows us to all live comfortable lives is our success in business. We are lucky to have a community college with excellent vocational programs, so we can hire good help for all our businesses. Rose, who now runs the bus shop, Jimmy, and Billy all have interns from the college to help out, with several becoming employees after graduating. This has been a great help to Billy and Collene since Gary and Rita are now pretty much fully retired and traveling the country in their bus. Our contacts with the school have been very helpful when hiring staff for 'The Clinic', too. It's going to be a great place for a student to apply their skills and make some money in a clinical setting, but with clients who are not injured.
 
 
With you brought up to speed, it's time for a new beginning. Everyone knows about the implant I received that allows me to be paralyzed, but no one knows about Judy's yet, not even Jimmy. So for now, I'll turn things over to Judy and let her finish out this chapter and begin writing the new beginning to our lives.
 
 
******
 

New Beginning, Ch. 201 – Judy’s Adventure - The Plan
 
By: Judy Mekas
 
 
These last few months have been quite difficult for me. I want to be able to enjoy my BioTronic implant full-time instead of just when I'm alone or going out with Leigh. The other day, I almost got caught by Jimmy with my device turned on. Well, thinking about the situation, I was caught, but luckily I talked my way out of it...

Love this story, great mix of orthodontic and orthopaedic braces

Thank you very much! Your comment means a lot to me and give me motivation to keep going.