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Author Topic: Story: Leigh and Joel  (Read 28048 times)

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #45 on: 25. June 2024, 16:44:32 PM »
Ch. 143 - Saturday
 
 
We had a lot of fun last night getting to know Blakely, or Blake, as she prefers. We told her that we are all open books when it comes to our unique lifestyles and to feel free to ask us anything. Blake seemed to be fascinated with Emme, Rebekah, and I with our matching casts and Judy and Collene with their braces, both orthopedic and orthodontic. However, she couldn't keep her eyes off of the completely immobilized Jackie and her tongue-controlled wheelchair. At dinner, Blake intently watched Ben feed his helpless wife.
 
 
After dinner, Stan suggested that we play a bit of a game with Blake. Only Jackie and Rita had told her why they were wearing their braces. Blake was so open-minded and curious about all of our casts and braces that Stan thought it would be fun to have her try and guess which of us were wearing casts or braces for a medical need and which were simply for fun. She got it right about Emme really breaking her wrist by how she wasn't using her left hand at all, but she figured out that Rebekah and I were wearing our casts for fun. With Judy, Collene, and I having withered, atrophied legs, she knew we needed our leg and back braces, but she was taken aback by the reason Judy and I needed ours. She was right most of the time with everyone else, too. It was a fun little game to play.
 
 
Then Blake went around and talked to each of us and asked many detailed questions. She sees many people wearing various braces and casts on a daily basis at work, but she can't ask them any questions except about any special accommodations they might need. We were asked what it was like to wear our braces and casts and why we enjoy wearing them. Blake and Collene had a long conversation about how Collene initially hated her orthodontic braces but grew to love them. Since she was doing so much talking, Blake's lisp began to diminish a bit as she got used to speaking with all the appliances in her mouth; she was beginning to not even think about her orthodontic braces and headgear anymore.
 
 
At one point, when Blake was talking to Rose about her casts and newly applied orthodontic braces, I heard her say, "I have never worn a cast before; I've never had a broken bone, and I have always wondered what wearing a cast is like." Rose replied, "You can find out right now. Pete, Blake wants to wear a cast; please get the supplies." Pete replied, "I'll get them; be back in a wink."
 
 
Pete returned with the supplies, and Ben asked what sort of cast Blake wanted to wear, and she replied, "I would like a short cast like Rose has on her left leg, please." "What color?" questioned Ben. "Purple to match my nails," was Blake's reply. She rolled up her pant leg, took off the high block-heeled hiking boot from her left foot—a boot designed for style, not hiking—and then removed her wool sock. Blake's long, slender toes had their nails polished in a deep purple hue; there was a white flower on her big toe and a silver ring on her second toe.
 
 
Ben explained the casting process and got to work. Very quickly, Blakely was in a perfectly crafted SLWC with a toeplate and one of the tall walking heels that Joel makes. As her cast hardened, she said, "Ooo, this feels so nice. My cast is getting warm; it feels great. Can I get one on my wrist like Rose is wearing on her right arm, but on my left?" Ben said sure, and soon Blake had a purple SATS on her left arm. She then stood up, wiggled her toes, and walked around, saying, "My casts are so comfortable, and my leg cast is easy to walk in; this is great! Let's go up to the lodge so I can show everyone my casts, braces, and headgear."
 
 
Collene asked Blake how she was going to explain her casts to people, and she said, "I sometimes have joint pain, so I will say my casts are for that. My parents live in the same town as you, and I'm going there at the end of next month to visit. I figured I could stop by your shop and get my casts removed before visiting them and taking them to the airport. They're going to Europe, and I'm going to take care of their place while they are gone for a few weeks. Their ranch is out on County Road 2A."
 
 
I said that several of us live on Road 2A and asked her parents' address. Blake replied, "5501", and Collene said, "Your parents are Donna and Dave Santos? They live near us. It will be fun to hang out with you, Blake, and Billy will be more than happy to remove your casts when you arrive." Blake happily said, "That sounds wonderful, and I'll be able to wear my casts until then. You all are the greatest!"
 
 
Several of us accompanied Blake to the main lodge, where she told her co-workers all about getting braces and headgear, along with casts for her joint pain. Everyone was very kind and wished her well with her orthodontic and orthopedic treatments, saying she would fit in well with the guests. All her apprehension about wearing her braces and headgear was diminishing; Blakely was always smiling, showing her braces and very crooked teeth.
 
 
With last night's story told, we made our way to our lodge for breakfast. Everyone was there, with Blake, Collene, and Judy busy in the kitchen. Breakfast was served, and we all discussed our plans for the day. Judy, Collene, Jimmy, and myself were going trap shooting. Jackie wanted to spend time exploring the grounds alone in her braces and tongue-controlled wheelchair. Joel, Paul, Pete, and Jose are going to give the bus a once-over before our trip home. I overheard Blake telling Emme she wanted to try wearing eye patches and experience being blind. We all agreed to meet up again at our lodge at three in the afternoon.
 
 
Judy, Collene, and I wheeled down the shooting range with Jimmy. When we went inside and Collene saw the 'Twenty-Five Straight' plaque on the wall with a tag engraved 'Judy Jenkins-Mekas' and last Saturday's date, it ignited an intense yet friendly sisterly rivalry. I couldn't shoot with my cast, so I just watched. The first round they tied with 24, and the second was 25 straight for both girls. By this point, their backs were painful from only wearing their low-profile Milwaukee braces, but there were two more tags added to the plaque.
 
 
Collene was a bit jealous when she saw Judy's name on the plaque twice; neither sister likes to be surpassed by the other. Jimmy wants them to join the team at his trap club, but their competitive spirit is only between themselves and no one else. With their spines sore, the sisters wanted to change into their more supportive braces, and I wanted to hang out in our lodge.

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

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #46 on: 25. June 2024, 16:46:09 PM »
Ch. 144 – Sunday

  
It's Sunday, our last full day at Kings Mountain Retreat, and our last day with Blakely until she comes to visit in six weeks. We're all feeling a bit down about leaving but determined to make the most of our last day here. We all slept late and met up at our lodge for coffee before heading to brunch.
 
 
When we got to the lodge for brunch, several of Blakely's co-workers on the day shift asked about her casts, braces, and reverse pull headgear. They all knew she was getting braces, but not about how extreme they would be or about her headgear. No one expected to see her wearing several casts, either. Actually, people were more curious about her casts than her orthodontics. Without a hint of shyness or embarrassment, she gleefully told people she had pain in her wrist and ankle and needed to wear casts for several weeks. She would also open her mouth and proudly show off her expanders and tongue crib to anyone who was curious. What a change from just a few days ago, when Blakely kept her face hidden and was even thinking of quitting her job to avoid being seen. 
 
 
While we ate brunch, Blakely's eyes went back and forth between watching Emme eat while sightless and Ben feeding the heavily braced and completely immobilized Jackie. It was a lot of fun watching her watch them, and we could tell she was very curious about what the ladies were experiencing. Over our meal, we all planned our day.
 
 
Emme asked Annie and Charlie if the artist who painted their casts and taught classes was going to be here today. Annie said that she would be here, so Emme wanted to get a painting on her cast even though she wouldn't see it for several more days. She asked if Rebekah and I wanted to get ours painted, too, but we declined; our casts will be changed when we get home. The ones we are wearing have fiberglass under the plaster, but we wanted heavy, snug-fitting plaster casts. However, we didn't have enough material with us here. However, Blake spoke up and said she is an accomplished artist and would love to decorate Emme's cast and then her own casts, too. The girls thought that would be a fun way to spend some time together, so that was their plan for the day.
 
 
The rest of us simply wanted to take one last long walk, crutch, or wheelchair ride around the lake. We decided that the girls and guys should set off separately, and we would meet at the far side of the lake. Then we would pair up with our mates and return to our lodge, stopping off at overlooks and taking the side trails. It's a clear day but cold, with snow still in the trees. Thankfully, the paths have been cleared of snow; it's a very pleasant day in the mountains. The guys and Lydia headed off together, and us girls set off as well.
 
 
Sam and Millie like to push wheelchairs for others, and they take every opportunity to do so. All of us girls headed to the cabin Rebekah and I shared so we could get into our manual wheelchairs so the girls could put on their KAFOs and skates. Kathy wanted to get her crutches and try walking with her knees locked, something she hasn't done yet.
 
 
All the paths are dry and level, so we shouldn't have any problems, unlike the day Millie lost control of my wheelchair going down a grade while I was in my Petrie cast with LATS on both arms. I thought I would end up in a halo brace, not because I wanted to be in one but because my neck was broken and I was paralyzed. However, Millie got my wheelchair under control, and all ended well. I still tease her about that day, saying I wish she had let me roll down the hill and break my neck so I could be paralyzed.
 
 
On the way to our cabin, I asked Sam and Millie if they would apply casts to both of my legs; I hadn't worn leg casts since my hip spica cast. Of course, the girls were more than happy to, and I told them I wanted DLLCs and wished we had material for a spreader bar, too. Sam said, "I read something online about making a spreader bar simply from fiberglass tape. Want to give the method a try?" I said sure, and I was curious about what Sam's method is.
 
 
On the way to my cabin, we stopped so Kathy could get her crutches. She has been in her KAFOs with her knees unlocked; however, she wants to try crutching with stiff legs in her halo traction brace. Once at my cabin, Rebekah got the large box of cast supplies, and I got undressed and out of my HKAFO-Milwaukee brace, and Judy strapped me into my NI Halo CTLSO.
 
 
Now Sam and Millie, along with some help from Judy and Collene, applied a pair of dark green LLCs to my legs. My knees were cast with a bit of a bend, and my ankles were at the standard 90 degrees. We let my casts dry, and then I laid back on the bed for Sam to do her abduction bar trick, which she learned on one of the message boards.
 
 
Sam asked Judy and Collene to spread my legs apart and to hold my feet turned outwards, and she asked Millie to have fiberglass ready for her. Sam then made a wrap of fiberglass around my right ankle, then brought the roll across to my left. She then twisted it around the first pass, forming a fiberglass bar between my legs. This process was duplicated several times, and a bar of fiberglass was built up between my ankles. Then she made a few final wraps, strengthening the bar. Sam then repeated the process at my knees, and my legs were spread widely apart with my feet awkwardly pointing outward.
 
 
Rebekah proceeded to remove her skirt and KAFOs and said, "OK, Sam, it's my turn now, right?" Sam and the girls repeated the casting process on Rebekah's legs, this time using black fiberglass, the only color we had enough of to make a big cast like this. The amazing thing was that as both Sam and Millie worked, not only in their braces, they were on roller skates too! We let our casts get hard, got dressed, and transferred to our manual wheelchairs.
 
 
With thick wool socks on our casted feet, we were now finally on our trek around the lake after taking an hour to get our casts applied. Along the way, we stopped for pictures and took in the sights. Everyone who was on crutches was doing really well, even Kathy, who found crutching in her halo brace to be a bit uncomfortable. The girls did great pushing Rebekah and me in our wheelchairs while on skates; there were no near-catastrophes.
 
 
When we got to the far side of the lake, the guys were waiting for us. Joel and Paul were shocked to see Rebekah and me in our new, large casts. They were impressed, not only by the fact we were in big casts but also by Sam's handiwork. She explained her method to them, and then we all took some time to take in the sights.
 
 
While relaxing, a young paraplegic couple came rolling up, and we talked with them for quite a while. Before they went on their way, we asked them to take a group picture of all of us, and the young man happily did so. We then paired up with our spouses to slowly make our way back to our lodge. It felt good to say 'spouses' since all the couples are now married. This truly has been a remarkable and memorable week.
 
 
We all slowly departed to head back to the lodge, with Ben and Jackie taking off first. As Joel and I headed back, we took a side path and found a big tree stump to sit on. He got me out of my wheelchair, took off my headgear, and we had a rather long and passionate make out session. It was interrupted by laughter from Millie and Sam; they took the same path, looking to have the same fun as Joel and me. We talked for a little while, with the girls thanking us for getting them into the cast and brace lifestyle, then we made our way back to the lodge together.
 
 
When we got to the lodge, Ben had just removed the braces from Jackie's arms, allowing her to move them for the first time in over a week. Millie inquired about what was going on, and Ben explained:
 
 
"Well, Millie, it's back to real life on Tuesday. We have several patients we need to see this week, including Lori, and I need Jax to assist me. In fact, Jax, why don't we go to our cabin and get you out of these braces and into your other ones so you can start walking around a bit? I noticed that as we get older, it takes you a lot longer to get loosened up after being immobilized."
 
 
"Good idea, Benny," replied Jackie. "It does take me longer these days, but it is still worth it; I love being immobilized. Millie, you are about the same build as me. Would you like to try on my braces and see what my life has been like for the last week or so? We can take the hand orthosis off one arm, so you can operate my wheelchair since you don't have the special piercing that I have."
 
 
"I would love to, Jackie." Millie replied with excitement. "Do you want to come see me get braced up, Sammy?"
 
 
"No, I just want to see you in that wonderful brace, completely unable to move. I'll take good care of my immobilized wife tonight and bring her great pleasure, too." Sam said this to Millie with a mischievous grin on her face.
 
 
While Millie, Ben, and Jackie were off, the rest of the couple arrived back at the lodge, and Pete was getting worried about where Emme and Blakely were. Just as he was getting ready to call Emme, we heard the girls approaching outside, laughing and carrying on. When they entered, both girls had beautiful artwork on their casts, and Blake was carrying a large package.
 
 
Blakely's casts were both covered with various varieties of flowers, including ones that matched the art on her big toenail. Emme's LATFS had two different scenes, similar to what Annie and Charlie have on the back of their big casts. On one side of Emme's cast was a panoramic view of a lake at sunrise, and on the other side, a lake at sunset. The smooth plaster made a perfect canvas for Blakely. But their casts were nothing compared to what was in the package.
 
 
Blake carefully unwrapped the parcel, and it contained two canvases. The first one was a self-portrait she painted. Blake was pictured standing overlooking a lake, looking back over her left shoulder, and waving with her arm in her SATS. She was wearing a denim skirt, displaying her heeled SLWC and her high-heeled boot on her right foot. There was a wide smile on her face, which was adorned with braces and her bright pink reverse-pull headgear.
 
 
Blake said, "I thought a self-portrait would be a great way for Emme to see me for the first time when she takes out her contacts. She has no idea what I look like."
 
 
The other painting was a portrait of Emme sitting very rigidly in her Milwaukee brace on a tree stump. Her legs were crossed, showing her KAFOs very clearly with her skirt pulled up rather high. Emme's large cast was undecorated and very prominent. The detail of Emme's crooked, braced teeth and headgear was amazing. She will have two great mementos from her trip.
 
 
Ben and Jackie arrived with Millie, who was now in Jackie's very immobilizing braces and wheelchair. Jackie was on her feet for the first time in well over a week, wearing KAFOs with her knees unlocked and a Milwaukee brace with a loose-fitting neck ring. She wasn't on crutches, but Ben had his arm around her, supporting her rather unstable body.
 
 
Millie was totally immobilized except for the fingers of her right hand. Just like when Jackie was in the brace, Millie's body, arms, and legs were strapped firmly to her wheelchair. Even if all the joints on her brace were unlocked, she would be unable to move at all. Upon seeing her wife immobilized like this, Sam ran over and said,
 
 
"Oh, Mills, you look amazing in Jackie's brace, and you have a catheter, too. What is it like, sweetie? It must feel heavenly!"
 
 
"I can't describe it, Sammy. It feels amazing, and I can only move my fingers and thumb on my right hand; the rest of my body is held firm by the brace. I love it, and Jackie said I can wear it for a while if you're willing to care for me."
 
 
"Of course I'll take care of you, Mills. We are going to have a lot of fun with you confined to that brace and wheelchair. There is no way you can get out of it yourself; you are at my mercy, dear."
 
 
"I know, Sammy, and that is what I want. I want you to take care of all my needs, and I know you will love doing it. I hope you paid attention to how Ben fed Jackie. I'm getting hungry, and I need my wife to feed me my dinner."
 
 
"Don't worry, Mills, I'll take care of all of our hungers."
 
 
Sam then took a close look at the brace that Millie was wearing and kissed her. It was then that my phone beeped, along with Kathy and Rita's. The message was from Steven, the general manager and Blake's close friend. It read, "Please come up to the lodge; I want to talk to you. Be discreet; I don't want Blake to know."
 
 
Rita, thinking quickly, said, "I just got a text about the dinner reservation I made earlier and need to go sort things out. Is that what your messages said, too?" Kathy replied, "Yes, that's it. Leigh and I probably got the message too, since everything is in our names. Let's go and see what the issue is." Everyone was checking out Millie's brace and Blake's artwork, so we headed to the lodge and said we would call when things were sorted out.
 
 
I wonder what Steven wants to talk about.

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #47 on: 28. June 2024, 16:38:18 PM »
Ch. 145 - Goodbye, Kings Mountain
 
 
After receiving the rather cryptic text from Steven, the general manager, Kathy, Rita, and I made our way to the lodge. When we arrived, Steven was waiting and warmly greeted us. He offered us coffee, then showed us to his office, closed the door, and said,
 
 
"Firstly, I wanted to thank you for spending time with Blakely. The second thing is, please call me Stevie; that is what my friends call me, and I consider you friends for what you have done for Blake."
 
 
"I have known Blake for seven years now, and we are like brother and sister. Blake loves the mountains and started working here in the summers while going to college. Blake is very shy, easily shaken, and embarrassed about her crooked teeth; she hardly ever smiled. Since she likes to be alone, Blake does accounting and reservations. After she got her business degree, I hired her full-time, and she lives in a little cottage just outside town. However, she often stays here in staff accommodations if the weather is bad; she doesn't like driving in the snow. Blake is always here early and stays late, taking long walks in the woods or a rowboat out on the lake."
 
 
"Despite being so shy and self-conscious, Blake likes people, but her bad teeth make her very uncomfortable. She's the girl off by herself at a party, just watching people. One day, we had a sudden snowstorm, and several busloads of guests got through before the road was closed. We were shorthanded, and I asked Blake to work the front desk. She seemed to really enjoy it, but she never smiled because of her crooked teeth. As time went on, her bad bite started to cause her to have jaw pain; something had to be done."
 
 
"I encouraged her to see an orthodontist since braces are covered by our benefit package. I went with her to visit several orthodontists, and she finally decided on a doctor to receive treatment from. Everyone in the office was wearing some sort of orthodontic appliance, including the orthodontist herself, who was wearing headgear like Leigh's. I even had a consultation, and I am getting braces next week, but nothing as elaborate as Blake has to wear. I wish my case was as complicated as hers, so I would need the same appliances. Blake would find that comforting, but you ladies have done that for her."
 
 
"So last week, Blakely finally got braces. She should have had them as a kid, but she refused, and her parents didn't force her—a decision she regrets now. I couldn't go with her to her appointment; we had a surprise inspection from the fire marshal. I felt so bad she had to face the orthodontist alone, and after her appointment, she sent me a picture of her wearing her new appliances. It was obvious she had been crying."
 
 
"I called Blake, and I could hardly understand her because of her lisp. She said the orthodontist told her to wear her headgear as close to 24 hours a day as possible instead of the twelve hours a day originally planned during her consultation. She was also told her treatment would take longer than initially anticipated, with several years in headgear. Blake was devastated. However, with her jaw pain becoming unbearable, she has to have treatment, no matter what it entails. She told me she was quitting her job and moving back home with her parents."
 
 
"I visited her that evening. All she did was cry, and I couldn't console her. I stayed the night at her place on the couch, and I could hear her crying all night in her bedroom. The next morning, she had calmed down a bit and was hungry, but her teeth hurt so much that there was nothing in the kitchen she could eat, and tears once again flowed. She finally settled down, and I went to the store and got her very soft foods to eat. When I returned, Blake felt a bit better, but she said she never wanted to leave her house again."
 
 
"When your group arrived and a bus trip was offered, I sent Blake a picture of the bus and asked if she wanted to join us; she said no. I visited her the night before the trip and talked her into going, but she said she was going to hide her face. I told her that no one really cares if a girl has to wear braces, and I reminded her of the various things we see our guests wearing. I told her I would pick her up; I didn't want to give her the opportunity to back out. Blake needed to get out and face the world."
 
 
"I noticed that as Blake got on the bus, she took a long look at Rita, wearing headgear just like hers, before taking a seat alone. Then Rita sat down next to her, and that is when everything began to change. It was the first time I saw Blake smile since getting her braces, and the first time I've ever seen her smile that wide. After seeing how much she enjoyed her day with all of you, I told her to spend the weekend with you, too."
 
 
"I never expected to see Blake wearing casts later in the evening, and she seemed happier than I had ever seen her before. Then I remembered something that happened at several of our first aid classes. In the classes, we were practicing applying bandages for sprains and splints for fractures. During one of the classes, Blake's left wrist was bandaged, and her arm was put in a sling. After the class, Blake continued to wear the bandage and sling for about a week until co-workers teased her about it. Another time, she had her ankle wrapped up and used crutches for a week or so. During these times, she volunteered to work the front desk and did so with a smile. Her bandaged wrist or ankle seemed to comfort her, and she said she had always dreamed of wearing a cast."
 
 
"I know Blake is going to wear her casts until she comes to visit you. I worry that when she gets her casts removed, she will go back to her old self, and I wanted to let you know this might happen. Please call me if Blake has any issues; she doesn't have many friends, and I worry about her."
 
 
Rita said, "Don't worry, Stevie; we'll look after her; I think she will do fine. If Blake needs something to distract her from her braces and headgear, I think we can come up with something." Kathy and I reassured Stevie and said we would keep in touch with him during Blake's visit.
 
 
Stevie said, "Thank you so much. I worry so much about her, and I know she lives a very lonely life; her job is her only real contact with people, and I would hate to see her quit and move away. By the way, for what you are doing for Blake, your stay here is on the house. It's the very least I can do after seeing Blake so happy and smiling like she is now."
 
 
We were all touched by the story of Blakely's life, and I assured Stevie we would do all we could for her. We asked him to join us for dinner, and he accepted. Kathy called Lydia and said that everything was in order and we would be waiting for everyone by the fireplace. While waiting, I briefly told Stevie the story of Emme and how wearing casts and a halo brace helped her cope with a traumatic event in her life (Chapter 84).
 
 
Once everyone arrived, we had a wonderful dinner together. It was hilarious watching Sam feed Millie. They made a bit of a mess, but finally Millie's belly was full, pressing firmly against her brace. After we ate, we went back to our lodge and spent time reminiscing about the events of the past week. Since it was a clear night, we went outside to stargaze for a while, too. We all really like Blake and enjoy her company. It will be great to spend more time with her when she visits us.
 
 
It was getting late, and all of us wanted to spend a final romantic evening with our spouses, so we all retired to our cabins. Sam and Millie were the first to go, excited to have some fun with Millie in her extremely immobilizing brace. Before they left, Ben showed Sam how to release and lock the joints on Millie's brace and how the hip joints can be locked with her legs spread, like the casts Rebekah and I are wearing. The girls then excitedly rushed to their cabin for some fun and romance.
 
 
The next morning, we all got up early for breakfast and to say goodbye to Blake. Today is her first day back to work after getting her braces and recreational SATS and SLWC. She looked so cute in her red Kings Mountain Retreat flannel shirt, a pair of jeans, which she had cut off just above her leg cast, and her high-heeled boot on her right foot. Blake's long, dirty blond hair was in a ponytail, and she made no attempt to hide her reverse-pull headgear. Blake had a look of confidence and held her head high—a complete change from the young woman we met a few days ago. We had our meal, then finalized the details of Blake's visit, and she headed off to the main lodge to begin her first braced and casted day of work.
 
 
We then went to our cabins to pack the last of our things before heading home. Paul and Joel, who were still in their KAFOs and Milwaukee braces, helped Pete check over the bus before departing. Rebekah and I were proud of our guys; not only did they get used to wearing their braces rather quickly, they really enjoy them and want to wear them often. I also got the impression that Billy and Jimmy were planning to do the same. We have seen several other couples around the resort that were wearing identical or near identical braces or prosthetics, and they really looked good. 
 
 
Finally, we were ready to depart. Millie, in her brace, and Rebekah, in her Petrie cast, had to be carried to their seats on the bus. Kathy and I gathered up everyone's resort phones and headed to the main lodge to turn them in and check out. We entered through a side door and could see Blake standing at the front desk typing away on the computer, but she didn't notice us enter.
 
 
It was then that a couple in their late 50s came in the main door. The woman, who had only her right leg, was on crutches. She was very beautiful and dressed elegantly in a blue dress, with a very high-heeled over-the-knee boot on her right leg and the stump of her left leg just barely visible below the hem of her dress. They approached Blake at the front desk:
 
 
"Good morning! Welcome to Kings Mountain Retreat. I'm Blakely. How can I help you on this fine morning?" Blake said with a smile.
 
 
"We are fine and very happy to be here." The woman said, also smiling.
 
 
"Good morning, Blakely. We're the Wards, Bob and Carol; we have a reservation." Bob said in a deep voice.
 
 
Blakely checked the computer, got the couple their phones, and explained how to use them. A bellman was called to get their bags. Blake was cheerful and smiling the entire time, seeming to totally ignore her casts, braces, headgear, and horrible lisp. The couple had to ask Blake to repeat many things because of her lisp, but they were very understanding of her situation. Something that Kathy and I both noticed was Blake's posture; we are certain she has scoliosis, and it's rather severe; I don't know why we didn't notice earlier. As the couple began to walk and crutch away, Carol turned to Blake and said, "You're so brave, Blakely, to wear your headgear to work. I think that would be harder than my first day back to work after I lost my leg."

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

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #48 on: 28. June 2024, 16:40:32 PM »
Ch. 146 - Back Home

 
Our bus trip home was quite pleasurable, especially for Pat and Terry. They had traveled cross-country on a bus like this shortly before they broke up in college. Now, after many years, they are back together and married, something that was impossible in those days. 
 
 
However, Rebekah and I were quite uncomfortable in our Petrie casts. Our hips were really beginning to ache, and there was no space for our husbands to sit next to us. We were beginning to regret getting our casts, despite the expert job Sam did applying them. In my other Petrie cast and my hip spicas, my hips weren't rotated like this, and they were really comfortable casts. Neither of us could imagine what it would be like to wear our casts for weeks or months on end. We'll endure another day or so, but I think we'll have our Petrie casts removed soon. Maybe getting our heavy plaster arm casts later will distract us from our very painful hips.
 
 
Otherwise, the trip was very enjoyable, and the sack lunches that Stevie sent with us were excellent. We arrived home mid-afternoon, and everyone gathered their belongings and headed home. It was sad to see everyone go, but we are going to have a busy week and will be seeing a lot of each other. The best thing about being home is that we are going to visit Lori tomorrow. She's now living in her new home and spending her days at the rehab center building up her strength. Scotty has even spent some time at the shop setting up his bench and is looking forward to working with Jimmy.
 
 
Before Paul and Rebekah went home, we wanted to get our arm casts changed to plaster, just like Emme's. We headed to the cast room, and our husbands got to work. They had intently watched as Ben applied Emme's cast and asked a lot of questions about how to properly apply a cast like hers; I think they knew that Rebekah and I would end up wanting to wear identical casts. They cut off our current casts, and we played like our wrists were very painful, supporting them with our right hands.
 
 
Working in unison, our husbands applied cotton stockinette, gently pulling up our arms with smaller pieces on our thumbs and fingers. Then cotton padding was carefully rolled onto our arms, fingers, and thumbs. Finally, many layers of plaster bandaged were applied, the ends of the stockinette were folded back, and more plaster was applied. They rubbed our casts smooth, placed finger traps on our two exposed fingers, and suspended our casted arms to let the plaster set up. The guys knew our hips were sore from our Petrie casts, so they went to make us drinks to help us relax.
 
 
Paul and Joel soon returned to the cast room with four Glencairn glasses and a bottle of Bowmore 18-year-old single malt. Paul poured us all a glass, and we toasted a casted and braced future. I was beginning to feel warm all over, especially in my casted arm and so was Rebekah. After another wee dram, it was decided we better order something up for dinner. Our casts were no longer warm and were becoming cold and clammy, and the guys put our casted arms into slings. It was then that we realized just how heavy our casts are, but they will lighten up a bit when they are completely dry but will still be heavy, bulky casts—casts that we will be wearing as long as Emme needs hers for her fractures.
 
 
We wheeled out to the den with the guys following wearing their braces; they had applied our casts while in their KAFOs and Milwaukee braces. We were all hungry, but after drinks, it was best to order delivery. Out here in the country, there are not too many options, so we decided on pizza—it was sort of an odd choice after enjoying a fine single malt. The pies soon arrived, and we enjoyed them with cold beer. After Scotch, dinner, and beer, the pain in Rebekah's and my hips was greatly diminished, and we were sleepy. We said goodnight, and Paul took Rebekah home, and Joel took me to bed, where I immediately fell asleep.
 
 
When I awoke this morning, I was miserable. My head hurt from too much drinking last night, and my hips were on fire from the position they were immobilized in. The only thing that felt good was the big cast on my left arm. The immobilization felt great, but my cast was cold and clammy. Joel could tell I was in extreme discomfort and asked what he could do. I told him that I have to get out of this Petrie cast and that I really need a few cups of coffee and something to eat. Joel said, "I'll go make a pot of coffee, then I'll get you out of that cast."
 
 
While Joel was making coffee, I texted Rebekah to see how she was doing and to let her know I was getting my Petrie cast removed, but I got no response. We had agreed to wear our casts for the same duration of time, and I wanted her to know I was having mine removed. Joel returned with a cup of coffee and got me propped up in bed, and it was painful to move my hips. As I drank my large cup of coffee, I started to feel a bit better. Then I got a text back from Rebekah that read,
 
 
"Hi Leigh. I didn't hear the phone beep; Paul was cutting me out of my Petrie cast. It was way too uncomfortable with my hips positioned like that. I'm glad you are going to get yours removed, too. We'll have to try this again someday, but we should get Ben to apply our casts and give us prescriptions for muscle relaxants. Why don't you and Joel come down to our place for breakfast in a couple hours? Judy and Jimmy will be joining us, too. We can then go visit Lori. I miss her, and I know from her texts that she has missed us."
 
 
I replied and simply said we would be by later.
 
 
Joel prepared a hot bath for me, then got me out of my CTLSO and headgear, removed my catheter, and carried me to the cast room. Once there, he quickly got me out of my Petrie cast. I wish I could have worn it longer, but it was just too uncomfortable. Not that Sam did anything wrong when she applied it; the cast was medically accurate. Once my legs were free, Joel slipped a cast cover on my left arm and carried me to the bathroom. He carefully placed me in the Jacuzzi tub, then went to get me another cup of coffee. After a good long soak in the tub and more coffee, I felt pretty good and was very hungry.
 
 
By now, Joel was out of his Milwaukee brace and dressed for work. He got me out of the tub, dried me off, and carried me to the bedroom. I got into my brown HKAFO-Milwaukee brace with brown wedge heel booties and put on a diaper; no catheter for a while so I don't lose control again. I put on a skirt and blouse—my usual attire—styled my hair, and did my makeup. Joel placed my silver facebows into the tubes on my molars and my black interlandi strap around my head that matched my black sling and my nerdy-looking black glasses. Joel helped me into my power wheelchair, and then we went to Paul and Rebekah's place.
 
 
When we arrived, Judy was in the kitchen, helping Paul cook. Jimmy was asking Rebekah, who was in her power chair like me, about the cast she just had removed. Both ladies were dressed similarly to me—casual but stylish. Before we ate, Rebekah called Lori and asked if she was up for visitors in about an hour. Not only was she up for a visit, she wanted to take us all out for lunch and do a bit of shopping. That sounded great, and Rebekah told Lori we would see her soon.
 
 
While we were eating, all of our phones stared beeping; we had all received a message from Collene. It was simply a picture of Gary, Rita, Collene, and Billy, the latter three wearing their leg and spinal braces, standing in front of the shop with their arms around each other. Above, on the facade, there was a new sign that read, "Rogers & Jameson - Orthotics and Prosthetics." Collene said that not only did Gary and Rita make her and Billy partners, they had the sign changed while we were away. We all sent words of congratulations and wished them well in their new partnership.
 
 
After breakfast, the guys headed to the shop, and us girls got loaded up in our small bus. Judy drove, and we soon arrived at Lori's house, which is only about a mile away. We had never visited Lori and Scott's home before, and it is really beautiful and surrounded by trees. Lori heard us pull up, and before we were even off the bus, she was wheeling out to greet us. I noticed right away that Lori no longer had any bandages on her stumps, and she had a walking heel on her LLC. Lori was wearing a pair of shorts and nothing over her halo CTLSO, and her long, graying hair was in a ponytail. She was wearing makeup but made no effort to conceal the large scar on her cheek. It looks like she has made some real progress in her recovery since we last saw her, and we all went inside for a tour and to talk.
 
 
Once Lori had shown us around her home, which was perfectly adapted for her life on crutches or in a wheelchair, we took some time to catch up on things. Lori hadn't mentioned much about her recovery while we were on our trip; she was more interested in our adventures. She did, however, have some questions, especially about Blakely and her desire to wear casts, as well as her extensive orthodontic treatment—something that is in Lori's future. Lori then told us about what has happened in her life over the past few weeks.
 
 
"Everything is going great with my recovery, and I'm feeling really good. I have no pain at all now; even my spine feels great. However, I get a funny phantom sensation where it feels like someone is tickling my left foot, but it passes quickly. You and Rebekah were right about my halo brace; it's actually fairly comfortable once I got used to wearing it. The pressure from the pins is still very noticeable, and I dread getting them retorqued, but otherwise, it's a million times more comfortable than my old brace. There is no pressure on my chin, I can put on makeup easily, and my long hair is free to flow down my back. I feel and look beautiful again!"
 
 
"My stumps are doing really well, too. Just look at how nice they healed up and how smooth they are with neat, narrow scars. The people at rehab say that I will have no problems with my prosthetics when I finally get them, which might even be this week. Ben did an excellent job with the revision on my leg and the amputation of my hand, plus he and Rita are such nice people, as you all well know."
 
 
"You probably noticed the big walking heel on my full-leg cast. They put that on my cast a few days after I last saw you, and I am now able to stand, and I have even taken a few tiny steps. Scotty knows that I have been standing to get used to being upright and to regain my balance, but he doesn't know I have taken a few halting steps, too. I want to surprise him when I get my KAFO and leg."
 
 
"The first few times they stood me up, I almost fainted since I had been sitting or lying down for so many months. Soon, it was no problem, and the therapists could stand me up, and I could steady myself, holding onto the parallel bar with my right hand and with a special crutch strapped to my left arm stump. It has sort of like a socket I slip what is left of my arm into with a strap around my upper arm to secure it in place. I have also been doing exercises to strengthen my right arm and my stumps in preparation for my prosthetics. It's all really exciting, and I know I will be able to walk again on my own very soon."
 
 
"There are only two things left to address: my teeth and my scoliosis. Joe Robbins, the orthodontist, has stopped by a couple of times to talk to me about my teeth, and he has a treatment plan. However, I do need to come in for a formal consultation, and I'll do that after I get my KAFO and my new hand and leg. He says I'll be in braces for a very long time and will also have to wear several rather uncomfortable appliances in my mouth. However, you guys manage to get along with all of your appliances, so I really don't care. Once I get braces, I'm sure I'll feel better about myself. Right now, I just have ugly, crooked teeth, but once I get braces, everyone will see that I am doing something about it."
 
 
"The final thing to deal with is my scoliosis. Ben says that this is why I have always had back pain, even before my accident. He wants to keep me in my halo brace for quite a while to protect my spine while I learn to walk again, which will take many months. Then, he wants a specialist to evaluate me and decide if I need further surgery or just a brace of some sort. I told him that I don't want any more surgeries, especially on my spine, but that I will wear any brace necessary to treat my curvy spine."
 
 
"Well, enough of this medical talk; let's go out and have some fun today. Help me put on a blouse, my stump shrinkers, and a warm sock on my bare toes. I can't feel much of my right leg, but I do feel it when my toes get cold."
 

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #49 on: 01. July 2024, 16:10:14 PM »
Ch. 147 - A Day With Lori
 
 
"So what do you want to do today, Lori?" Judy asks.

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

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #50 on: 01. July 2024, 16:11:37 PM »
Ch. 148 - The Orthotics Shop
 
 
Things are getting back to normal around our house today. Jimmy and Judy were up for breakfast as usual, along with Billy and Collene. Billy said that later today Pat and Lori would get molds made for their new legs, and Lori would also have her KAFO fitted. He was sure he would have several of her new shoes modified by lunchtime, too. Billy and Collene quickly ate and were off to their shop. Jimmy and Joel had another cup of coffee before picking up Paul for work.
 
 
While waiting for Rebekah to arrive, I got a text from Jackie:
 
 
"Hi Leigh. We just had breakfast and are on the road. We'll be at your place in about an hour. It's going to be great to enjoy a short stay with you and Joel. Pete and Emme, who is still blind, are anxious to be heading home, too. We'll see you soon... Well, I guess only Ben, Pete, and myself will actually see you."
 
 
I told Judy that everyone was on their way and would arrive soon, and that Emme was still blindsimming. We talked about blindsimming and how much we would like to try it someday, maybe even going on a vacation blind. We both found the thought to be rather exciting in many different ways. With all the casts and braces I have worn over the years, it surprises me that just thinking about wearing a pair of special contact lenses excites me so much.
 
 
After a bit more chitchat, we heard Ben's old station wagon pull up out front. Everyone came inside for coffee, with Emme leading the way with her white cane. Emme told about her and Pete's short stay with Ben and Jackie and how much fun it was to go to his clinic and have X-rays taken while sightless. She said that common everyday experiences are new, exciting, and often scary when sightless. After coffee, Ben helped Pete load up their bags into his car, and Pete and Emme headed home after almost two weeks away. Ben brought in his and Jackie's bags and got settled in our guest suite. He then looked at his watch and said, "Come on, Jax, we have to go. We meet Lori and Scott at Dr. Moore's office for X-rays and scans in only half an hour." We said good-bye and that we would see them later at Lori's KAFO fitting appointment.
 
 
Just after Ben and Jackie left, Rebekah arrived. She had crutched all the way from her house wearing her HKAFOs and Milwaukee brace, with a platform crutch strapped to her casted left arm and a forearm crutch in her right hand. Rebekah said, "I thought I would make it easy on you, Judy, and use crutches today. That way, you only have to deal with Leigh's wheelchair." Judy could see that Rebekah was struggling a bit with her heavy cast strapped to her crutch, and she thanked her for using her crutches today. We enjoy watching Billy work, so we headed to the orthotics shop to watch him work on Lori's shoes.
 
 
When we arrived, we saw Kathy's car in the parking lot. When we went inside, Kathy, Lydia, Pat, and Terry were talking to Collene in her office, discussing what to order for lunch later. After talking for a few minutes, Judy, Rebakah, and I went back to see Billy in the workshop.
 
 
Billy was at the sewing machine, stitching the sole back onto one of the shoes that Lori had purchased yesterday, the Doc Marten Mary Janes. It now had the special brackets coming up from the plate in the sole, and the bright metal contrasted with the dark brown leather. When Billy was done, he showed us Lori's braces. There was one in black, dark brown, and off-white. They looked like all of ours, but the hinges at the knee were different; they had an extension assist device. Billy explained that since Ben thinks that Lori will have some use of her leg, this device would make it easier for her to walk, especially with her prosthetic left leg. With Lori's leg being in a fixator and cast for so long, plus the nerve damage, it's hard to determine what features her brace needs.
 
 
The buzzer for the front door went off, and Judy looked down the hall and saw that Scott and Lori had arrived. Kathy led Lori to the casting room, and Billy, Judy, Pat, and I joined them; Terry and Scott remained with Collene and were having an animated conversation.

 
Lori was very excited to finally meet Pat. They had spoken on the phone many times but had never met. She thanked him for his advice and support and for letting her watch him get casts made of his stumps, the term they both use. He wheeled over to Lori, gave her a hug, and said, "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Lori, and I am glad I have been able to help you. On our trip, we met a very interesting young woman named Sarah, who is dealing with losing both her legs. She is having a rough time, but I think she feels a lot better after talking. Maybe you can meet her someday; she plans to visit Collene and Billy in the future."
 
 
Lori once again thanked Pat, and then Billy said, "Let's get casts made of your stumps, Pat. The manufacturer representative will be here Friday to program your legs. They are a new model that Gary and I have never worked with before; you and Lori will be our first clients to get them. Let me assist you in getting up on the table and getting these casts made. Oh, Lori, watch carefully. Ben called and told me that I could go ahead and cast your stumps today, too. The same procedure will be done on your leg and arm after lunch."
 
 
Billy assisted Pat with getting up on the table from his wheelchair and taking off his shorts. Soon, both of Pat's stumps were in plaster, and while it was drying, Billy asked Lori if she had any questions. She had none but said she is very excited that, in a few days, she will once again have a left leg.
 
 
After Pat's casts were removed and his stumps cleaned up, he put on his shorts and transferred to his wheelchair. After he was settled, we heard the door buzzer again, then Collene calling out, "Everyone to the lunchroom, the pizzas are here!" We all gathered at the large table and enjoyed lunch together. As we were eating, Lori had some questions for Kathy, and we all quietly listened to their conversation:
 
 
L: So Kathy, I know you are wearing your halo brace for pleasure and that it applies traction to your spine. What does it feel like to wear it? Is it ever painful? How much does it limit what you can do? I have lots of questions about your brace.
 
 
K: Well, Lori, you know what it is like to have a halo ring attached to your skull. There is certainly discomfort and pressure, but as you know, it is something you get used to. Since I now have eight pins, there is more pressure than with just four, and getting them retorqued is not pleasant but necessary and worth it to me.
 
 
My spine feels great, and my brace is very comfortable to wear. Billy does great work, as you know. I used to have back pain quite often, and sometimes it was pretty bad. Ever since wearing my halo, I have not had any back pain at all. It did ache a bit when I first got this brace that applied traction, but it was never painful. I try not to let my brace limit my activities; probably the worst part is not being able to drive. Other than that, I have adapted well, and I am very happy wearing it.
 
 
Why so many questions, Lori? My brace is nothing that anyone would ever have prescribed. Billy only made it to satisfy my odd desires.
 
 
L: Your odd desires might actually help me out, Kathy. When I initially had my consultation with Ben, he said one of my many issues was scoliosis and that it would need to be treated when my spine was up to it. We talked this morning about treatment options, and I said that I absolutely didn't want to have surgery, which would be the standard treatment in a case like mine. Ben, like Joe the orthodontist, prefers the old ways of doing things if circumstances allow, and we talked about your halo traction brace.
 
 
Ben said that he had sent pictures of your brace to several colleagues and asked what applications they might have for such a brace. He said they were all taken aback by your brace, but several mentioned it might be useful as an initial non-surgical treatment for moderate to severe cases of scoliosis. He asked me if I would like to try wearing a brace like yours for six months to a year to see my curves improve. I told him I would love to wear a brace like that, and wearing it would be a thrill and extremely pleasurable. I have grown to love my casts and braces.
 
 
With those last words spoken, Lori became very embarrassed, turned bright red, and started crying. This was the first time I had ever seen Lori get emotional about what happened to her, but these were positive emotions; she seems to actually enjoys her situation. We sat silently for a few moments before Scotty spoke up.
 
 
S: It's OK, Lori. There is nothing wrong with how we feel about your casts, braces, and losing your hand and leg. Don't be embarrassed; these feelings are helping us cope and also bring us pleasure; it's so much better than being depressed about everything. I know everyone at this table understands how we feel.
 
 
Scott then leaned over and gave Lori a kiss as silence continued to fill the room.
 
 
It was at this awkward moment that we heard Gary and Rita come in the back door. The silence was broken when they came in to greet us. Rebekah, Kathy, and Collene went to the office to work on some new accounting software, while the rest of us went to the cast room.
 
 
Once in the cast room, Rita said that since she was going to make Lori's leg socket, she would make her cast, too. Rita examined Lori's leg and then had Billy do the same, asking him several questions about evaluating residual limbs as to their readiness to accept a prosthetic. They both agreed her stump looked good, and then they examined her arm, which also looked good. Billy explained what they were checking for and that she would need to have several sockets made over time as her stumps adjusted to her prosthetics.
 
 
Rita then began casting Lori's left leg, with Billy assisting. While that cast was drying, Billy applied one to Lori's left arm with Rita's help. Soon, both casts were dry and were carefully removed and inspected. All was well, so Billy got to work removing the LLWC on Lori's right leg. Once her LLWC was removed, Lori wanted to take a close look at her battered leg. The many places where the pins from her fixator had penetrated her skin had small scars, and her leg was wasted and atrophied. Lori was a bit taken aback by the appearance of her leg but said she expected it to look bad.
 
 
Rita got a pail of warm water and a washcloth and began to gently wash Lori's leg, removing many layers of dead skin. Lori leaned back on the table and said, "I can feel most of what you are doing, Rita, and it feels great! The doctors have no idea how much feeling or muscle control I'll have in my leg, but I can definitely feel you washing my leg and scrubbing off the dead skin over most of my leg and foot."
 
 
After her leg was washed, Rita went to get some lotion to apply. Lori knew that she could wiggle a few of her toes, but she didn't know if she could move her knee or ankle. While Rita stepped away, Lori moved her foot slightly and tried to flex her knee. Her knee didn't move, but her muscles trembled; she had some control, but her leg is very weak. A smile came to Lori's face as she realized there was hope that with PT, her leg would not be completely useless and she might be able to walk without crutches someday.
 
 
With her cast removed and her leg cleaned up, we made our way to the brace fitting room. Lori's KAFOs, with her Mary Janes attached to the brown brace, were sitting on a table. Billy said, "Here it is, Lori, your leg brace. Once you get your new leg on Friday, the therapists should have you on your feet fairly quickly. You have excellent muscle tone in both your leg and arm stumps, as you prefer to call them. Oh, Gary, can you go to the supply room and get Lori some support hose, light compression, and in every color we have?" Gary disappeared, and Billy explained to Lori how her brace works and how to switch shoes.
 
 
When Gary returned, Billy asked what color, and Lori said, "Something bright and cheery. Red! That will look good with my brown brace." Rita applied the hose to Lori's leg, and Billy unbuckled all the buckles on the brace and said, "Come over here, Scotty. You need to learn how to put Lori's brace on her. Until she gets her new arm and learns how to use it, this is going to be your job, so watch carefully."
 
 
Billy applied the brace to Lori's leg, removed it, and had Scott repeat the procedure several times. He got the hang of it rather quickly, and Rita said it would get easier as Lori gained a bit of strength and flexibility.
 
 
Lori was ecstatic to now be wearing her KAFO, despite not being able to walk yet. She and Scotty asked us all to go out to dinner, knowing that Pat and Terry will probably have very sore teeth for a few days from getting their orthodontic braces tomorrow. Several calls were made to spouses and friends, and we'll all meet at Harry's Grill for a wonderful evening together.
 

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #51 on: 03. July 2024, 15:57:10 PM »
Ch. 149 - At the Orthodontist
 
 
We had a wonderful evening last night at Harry's Grill. Joel and Paul invited Rose and Jose to come along, too. They are definitely into orthodontics and are getting braces to treat real bite issues, as well as some extras just for fun. Rose and Jose, along with Pat and Terry, had their teeth scanned on Tuesday, and Joe is making their appliances. Judy and I will find out what they are getting when we accompany them to their appointments.
 
 
Rebekah and I have become used to the heavy plaster casts we are wearing. With my thumb immobilized along with my index and middle fingers, my hand is pretty much completely useless, and I love it. There is so much I can't do, and that includes putting on and taking off my braces. Joel has to help me with everything, and I can't believe how this cast has affected my life. Rebekah and I could have our casts removed at any time; we are just wearing them to support Emme, but she must wear hers for many long weeks to come, and will we, too. I'm going to try using a platform crutch today with my casted arm and try walking.
 
 
Jimmy and Judy came by for breakfast as usual this morning, and Judy was really excited about our friends getting orthodontic braces today. After we had breakfast, the guys went to the shop, and Judy and I headed off to the orthodontist. On our way, we got a text from Pete asking if we all wanted to go to Rancho Gordo for dinner, then get together at their place to look at pictures from the trip. Emme wants to go out blind one last time, then remove her contacts in the evening; she has been blind for almost three weeks. Of course, we accepted the offer, and I also saw responses from Joel, Rebekah, and Collene. Emme will get to see the artwork on her cast and pictures of Blake for the first time; she has no idea what her new friend looks like.
 
 
When we arrived at Robbins Orthodontics, Pat and Terry were in the waiting room. Sally soon appeared, still wearing her hot pink Minerva cast, and took us all to the procedure room with two chairs. Pat and Terry took their places in the chairs, and Judy and I sat in the corner, with Judy helping me with my platform crutch. Joe then entered the room with an assistant we had not seen before. He introduced his wife, Mary, and said that she was assisting so Sally could wear her Minerva cast for a few weeks. Joe then said, "OK guys, let's get you in braces!"
 
 
Ben and Mary got to work cleaning the guys teeth and gave them a final examination. Starting with Pat, Joe got to work placing his molar bands. Once these were in place, the Roth brackets were bonded to the rest of his teeth. His archwires were put in place and tied to his brackets with blue ligatures. Finally, several surgical hooks were crimped in place on his archwires. They were not too visible unless Pat smiled wide. The process went very quickly, and Pat looked great with his traditional metal brackets. Now, time for the extras that are just for pleasure and are completely inactive.
 
 
Joe picked up several removable appliances from the nearby counter. The two surgical splints, one thin and one very thick, were trial-fitted. The large one held his mouth open very wide and had an oval hole between his front teeth for drinking and a liquid diet. Then Joe fitted a facebow to Pat's upper arch and adjusted the cervical strap. Finally, lip bumpers, upper and lower, were trial-fitted along with blue reverse-pull headgear. After everything was checked out, Joe asked which appliances he wanted to wear for the rest of the day. Pat chose his lower lip bumper and upper reverse-pull headgear. Joe put the appliances in place and said, "There you go, my friend. All done." Pat, with a slight lisp, thanked Joe as his chair was raised. Terry sat in silence the entire time, intently watching, knowing he would soon be getting much more placed in his mouth.
 
 
Joe's attention has now turned to Terry. His chair was reclined as Pat quietly watched. Terry had not told Pat anything about what appliances he would be getting today. The first thing to go into Terry's mouth was his lower expander. It was a very bulky device with four bands attached to it, with the screw in front like mine. The device was trial-fitted, and as always with Joe's work, it was perfect, so it was cemented in place.
 
 
Then Terry's upper appliance was fitted—a very bulky, older-style expander like I wear. It had a tongue crib, and unlike mine, this one looked like a torture device. It was connected to the bands with very heavy wire and an oval loop in the front. The loop had vertical bars with small, sharp spikes welded to them. The appliance was fitted to Terry's upper arch, and then the rest of his bands were applied. Finally, his archwires were placed, secured with wire ligatures, and surgical hooks were placed between each band. Joe then had Terry get up and rinse his mouth.
 
 
After he rinsed, Terry tried to speak, and we couldn't understand a thing he said. His speech was garbled, and he would wince when his tongue contacted the sharp spike behind his front teeth. Sally handed him a pad and pencil, and Terry wrote, "This is pure hell. I absolutely love it!" He returned to the chair, and Joe reclined it and proceeded to fit the same removable appliances as Pat received. Once everything had been trial fitted, Joe asked Terry what he would enjoy wearing out of the office today. Pat, using paper and pencil, said, "Put the big splint in and wire me shut. It's been a dream of mine to be splinted and wired after a friend's wife had jaw surgery several years ago. It's not like I'm going to be eating solid food for a while anyway with all this in my mouth."
 
 
Joe complied and wired Terry's jaw shut around the large splint. Joe raised the chair and said, "OK, Terry, it's all done. I hope you and Pat enjoy all your new hardware." Pat gazed dreamily at his husband, with his mouth full of plastic, metal, and loops of wire, then finally said, "A dream come true for both of us, Terry! I remember when Bev had her surgery and how we were both fascinated by her splint and wires. I always dreamed of you being wired shut like that, and now you are." The two men embraced and expressed their love for each other. They thanked Joe, Mary, and Sally and were on their way, likely off for a romantic afternoon together.
 
 
With Rose and Jose's appointment several hours off, Judy and I decided to go see how Billy and Rita were doing with making Lori and Pat's sockets for their new prosthetics. When we arrived, Billy had made Lori's arm socket and Rita the one for her leg, and they were now working on Pat's.

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

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

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

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

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

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #52 on: 03. July 2024, 16:00:09 PM »
Ch. 150 - Emme Regains Her Sight
 
 
The ride home with Judy was enjoyable, like when we used to commute together. We talked a bit about Lori and how she feels about her situation, as well as about Emme's adventure. We both agreed that we would like to try blindsimming someday, and it will be exciting to see Emme's reaction to regaining her sight tonight.
 
 
J: So how do you think they all will do, Leigh?
 
 
L: Oh, Pat and Lori will do great with their new limbs. It will be easy for Pat, but it will take a lot of work before Lori walks again.
 
 
J: No, not that, Leigh. Rose, Jose, and Terry, with their wired jaws. How do you think they will do? I was only wired shut for one night; I don't know what it's like to live with my jaw wired shut for many weeks.
 
 
L: Well, since it is all for pleasure, for the first day or two, it will be like your night wired shut—exciting and very arousing. Then reality sets in. Eating will be difficult and frustrating, and the muscle spasms will last for a rather uncomfortable week or so. By then, you will have adapted to a liquid diet, and the spasms will abate. At first, going out in public will be hard; people will stare, and you'll have trouble communicating. Then, life basically returns to normal, with the wires just becoming part of you. Finally, for me at least, there is a sense of loss when the wires come off.
 
 
J: Wow, I never thought of those things. For me, it would be a real thrill to go out and have people stare at me and ask me to repeat myself. I want a hot pink splint like Rose's and to spend a few weeks wired shut. I'll have to think of a story to tell at work, too.
 
 
L: Well, Judy, why don't we do a short adventure over a weekend together? How about when Blake comes to visit? You have a four-day weekend then, and I'm sure Blake would be curious about our wired jaws.
 
 
J: Oh, great idea, Leigh!
 
 
When we got home, Joel's truck was parked out front; the guys were already home from work. We went inside and were greeted by Collene and Bekah. Collene said the guys had all gone to shower, put on their braces, and get dressed for the evening. Judy, who was very casual today in a t-shirt and overall dress, wanted to go change into something classier. She said she would return with the small bus and be our driver tonight. She loves driving the little bus since Paul installed the hand controls.
 
 
My left arm and shoulder were tired from using my platform crutch all day, so I wanted to wear my sling and use my power chair this evening. Also, since we often have to wait outside, I wanted a warm sweater, too.
 
 
I crutched to the bedroom, sat down in my wheelchair, and unstrapped my platform crutch. I noticed that Joel had his KAFOs and Milwaukee brace laid out on the bed next to a polo shirt and dark brown kilt. He soon emerged from the bathroom, and he hugged and kissed me. Joel proceeded to put on a diaper and compression hose, then his KAFOs, Milwaukee brace, shirt, and kilt. Finally, he put on his cervical headgear, and damn, he looked hot! Joel then helped me put on my sling, the kind with a strap that goes around the body. It felt great to have my heavy cast well supported.
 
 
I wheeled to the closet and picked out a warm cardigan sweater. Since my arm was strapped tightly in my sling, I just put my sweater on over it, and Joel buttoned it up. I told him I didn't want my empty sleeve to snag on anything, so he rolled it up and pinned it in place. As I wheeled to the door, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror, and with my empty sleeve rolled up, I looked like an amputee. I stopped and looked at my reflection for a moment, becoming very aroused by my appearance. Joel, on his crutches, ushered me on, likely having the same thoughts.
 
 
Once out of the bedroom, we heard Judy's voice; she had returned. Soon Jimmy, Paul, and Billy came crutching through the door. It was great to see all the guys wearing their KAFOs and Milwaukee braces, especially Billy and Jimmy, who never committed to wearing theirs as often as Paul and Joel did. Oh, all of them were wearing kilts and black compression hose too. Kilts, like skirts, are so easy to wear with KAFOs and let your braces be seen while not looking too casual. We all got loaded up in the bus and were off to meet Pete and Emme.
 
 
On the way, we discussed how Emme would present her sightless self at a place we visit regularly. She definitely can't always go there as a blind person because she gets lunch for the shop there often, and we have dinner there once a week.
 
 
We arrived at Rancho Gordo before Pete and Emme and found a place to wait outside under a heater. When our favorite waitress, Shelly, saw us, she ran up to me and said, "What happened to your arm, Leigh? It's gone." Between the loose fit of my sweater and my rolled-up sleeve, Shelly thought my arm had been amputated. I explained that my arm is just fine, but in a cast like Rebekah's and in a sling under my sweater. Shelly was relieved and asked why we both had casts on our arms. Rebekah simply said, "We had a little accident, and Emme was involved, too. She has a cast just ours." Shelly looked quite curious, like she had more questions, but simply took our drink order. 

 
Judy said, "Look, there's Pete's car. Let's see what Emme tells Shelly about her eyes."
 
 
We all watched Pete get out of the car and go to assist his sightless wife. From this distance, all we could tell was that Emme was wearing dark glasses, didn't have her white cane, but she was wearing all her braces. Pete helped her out of the car, and he held her arm to guide her along. As Pete helped her to take a seat, we noticed the patches over her eyes, and Collene asked, "Did you take your contacts out already, Emme?" Before Emme could answer, Shelly returned with our drinks, and upon seeing Emme with her eyes covered, she became very concerned and asked what happened.
 
 
"Oh, don't worry, Shelly; I had an eye procedure that didn't go exactly as planned, so I've had to keep my eyes covered for the last few weeks," replied Emme. "I'm very comfortable with my temporary blindness and will be regaining my sight very soon."
 
 
"You poor thing, Emme. It must be so hard for you to be without sight while wearing your braces and that cast, too," Shelly said emphatically. "I guess that is why you haven't' been around lately; I hope everything turns out well for you."
 
 
Emme replied, "Everything will be fine, Shelly. This has been a very exciting experience that I have really enjoyed for some strange reason."
 
 
We finally got a table inside and ordered our meals. Emme, as usual, did great feeding herself, and Judy helped her cut her steak. I sat across from Emme, and with her dark glasses and eye patches, I missed gazing into her milky-white eyes. What at first I found disgusting and grotesque, I now find alluring and erotic. After we ate, I needed to use the restroom and asked Judy to assist me.
 
 
As we came out of the restroom, Shelly handed me a note and began to quickly walk away. I glanced at the note, and it read, "Do you know 'L-Cast'? If so, call me at 775-555-1212."
 
 
'L-Cast' is the name I use on the casting message boards, and no one has ever approached me who knew it. I called out to Shelly, "Come back!" She returned, and I extended my hand and said, "Nice to meet you; I'm 'L-Cast' and this is 'CrippledByChoice',"  Shelly shook my hand and said, "Hi, I'm 'ShellCast'.
 
 
I recognized her name as someone who often comments on my posts. Shelly then said, "I know the truth about Emme's eyes from your posts. Is she still wearing her contacts under those eye patches? I would love to see them."
 
 
Just then, I saw everyone heading for the door and called for Pete and Emme. I explained that Shelly is one of us and that she would like to see Emme's eyes. Without hesitating, Emme removed her dark glasses and eye patches, exposing her milky, blind eyes. Shelly exclaimed, "They're so beautiful, Emme! I absolutely love how your eyes look, and it must be so exciting for you to live as a blind person. I saw the close-up picture Leigh posted and thought I recognized your unique nose piercing. I'm so glad I put everything together and figured out who you all are." We all exchanged email and phone numbers with Shelly, and then parted ways, knowing we had a new casting friend.
 
 
When we got to Pete and Emme's home, we settled in by the fireplace. Paul and Rebekah had not seen their old home since Pete and Emme finished their recent remodel. Rebekah said it feels more like home now than it did when she and Paul actually lived there. We talked for a little while, reminiscing about the last few weeks. Emme spoke about being blind and how much she enjoys blindsimming. However, the time has come for her to regain her sight.
 
 
Emme was a bit scared about removing her contacts; this was the longest she had ever worn them. She said that being blind brought her great comfort, like when I have my jaw wired shut: relaxed, content, and calm. She was worried about how her eyes would respond to light; would they hurt like when leaving a dark theater on a sunny day? Would her eyes be able to focus, or would her vision be blurry? If it's blurry, how long will it last? Emme was nervous about what she would experience when her contacts were removed.
 
 
We talked for a while longer and let the fire die down to just embers. All the lights were turned off, and only a bit of moonlight streamed through the window. With Emme's arm in a cast, Pete would have to remove her contacts for her, something he has only done once before. He let his eyes adjust to the darkness, then went and washed his hands, returning with the case for Emme's contacts and a bottle of eye drops. We all sat in silence, not knowing what Emme's reaction to regaining her sight would be. Pete said, "Are you ready, babe?" and Emme simply tilted her head back as far as her Milwaukee brace would allow without saying a word.
 
 
Pete asked Emme to look up and away from his voice, then he gently held her left eyelid open and carefully removed the lens from her eye. She immediately blinked several times and said, "Oh, it's so bright in here! I have to keep my eyes closed," despite the only light being from the dying fire and a bit of moonlight. Pete then went to her right side and repeated the process. He then picked up the bottle of eye drops and put two drops in each of Emme's eyes as she blinked several more times. Pete asked if she was OK, and Emme replied, "I'll be fine. I just need to get used to the light. It's just so bright in here." Pete held Emme's hand tightly as she slowly began to open her eyes to let them adjust after being in complete darkness for weeks.
 
 
Pete then said, "I have a surprise for you, Emme, but I need to leave you for a few minutes. Is that OK, sweetie?"

 
"Yes, that's fine, Petey." Emme replied and smiled.

 
Pete got up and headed to their bedroom, and Judy went and sat next to Emme and held her hand. Emme reclined her chair and would open her eyes for a few seconds before closing them again.
 
 
Pete soon returned, and he will definitely surprise Emme. He was on crutches, wearing KAFOs and a Milwaukee brace, just like all the other guys. Pete stood in front of Emme and said, "I have something to show you if you can open your eyes." Emme raised her chair, opened her eyes, and said, "Oh, wow, Pete, you got a Milwaukee brace and KAFOs, too. You look great in them!"
 
 
"We are now a braced couple, Emme, just like all the others," replied Pete. Emme stood and wrapped her arms around Pete, saying, "This is so wonderful, and you look so sexy in your braces. What a sight after being blind for weeks! I love you so much, Pete!" The two hugged and kissed, then sat on the couch together.
 
 
The fire was rekindled, and the lights were slowly brought up. As it got brighter, Emme saw the artwork that Blake did on her cast for the first time and was amazed by her skill. Emme then wanted to see the portraits that Blake had painted.

 
Pete, using one crutch, went and got the paintings. Emme gazed upon the image of her new friend, whom she had spent many hours with but had never seen. "Oh, Blakely is so beautiful, and I love her outfit. Look at her headgear and casts, too; she's adorable!"

 
Emme then took a look at the portrait that Blake painted of her. "I never realized the lake was in the background when I posed for Blake. What a beautiful place! I want to go back, but with my sight."
 
 
Pete then turned on the TV and connected his phone to it, and we began to look at pictures and videos from the trip. Emme was amazed by how she looked walking around with her milky eyes and white cane. She really liked the close-up of Blake with her very crooked teeth and reverse pull headgear; Emme wished her teeth were that crooked. Emme commented that Blake would look even better if she had full bands like the rest of us. She also noted that Blake has a crooked spine to go with her crooked teeth.
 
 
We all showed the pictures we took, including ones from earlier today of our friends with their freshly wired jaws. We spent until early morning looking at pictures and reminiscing, then crashed for the night.

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #53 on: 06. July 2024, 04:41:12 AM »
Ch. 151 - Three Legs and a Hand
 
 
We all slept late this morning after the events of last night. It was something to witness Emme regain her sight and see pictures of her new friend Blake for the first time. Before bed, Joel only removed his KAFOs and the shoes from my braces; we slept in the rest of our braces. With me still in my leg braces, Joel slid my feet into my shoes as he attached them to my braces. Once my shoes were buckled snugly on my feet, he helped me get dressed before putting on his KAFOs and clothes. I transferred to my wheelchair, and he picked up his crutches. We headed to the kitchen, hoping someone had already made coffee.
 
 
Indeed, coffee had been made, and the sisters and their husbands were enjoying a cup. We joined them, and soon Pete and Emme came crutching in. We were all hungry, but no one felt like cooking. Collene volunteered to go get us breakfast from McDonald's if she could borrow Emme's car with hand controls. Soon, Collene returned with several bags of McDonald's breakfast items, which was a treat for those of us who don't live close to town.
 
 
As we were eating, we wondered how Terry, Rose, and Jose were doing with their jaws wired shut. Joel texted Jose to find out how he and Rose are doing and to tell them to take time off from work, with pay, for as long as they are wired shut. Judy texted Terry to see how he was doing, too.
 
 
Terry was the first to respond, and he said, "This is pretty damn tough, but I'm sticking with it, Judy. I can't imagine what it would be like with all the pain from surgery, too. However, I'm getting used to things, and I greatly enjoy the immobilization. Last night, Kathy, Lydia, and Pat put tight elastics on their braces and are still wearing them. We had a liquefied meal last night and again this morning. Pat says he is looking forward to Lori getting her prosthetics later today and giving her advice and support."
 
 
A moment later, Joel got a reply from Jose. It was simply a picture of him and Rose in the park by their house, giving a thumbs up and smiling wide, showing their colorful splints and wires. Evidently, they must be enjoying themselves.
 
 
Billy then said, "I hate to be a wet blanket, but Collie and I really need to get home and get ready for work. I would hate for Gary and Rita to arrive at the shop before us." Emme said she needed to get payroll out since Sam has never done it on her own before. Pete also needed to spend time in the office; he hasn't been in since Emme started her blindsimming adventure. We said our goodbyes and loaded up on the bus to head home.
 
 
Judy dropped Billy and Collene's off at their house first. She then crossed the new bridge the guys had built across the creek to our property and parked the bus by the shop. We all wheeled or crutched home to get ready for the day.
 
 
Joel and I got out of our braces, and he put a waterproof cover on my cast. He cleaned our orthodontic appliances, and then we showered together. He helped me into my braces and got me dressed. I decided to continue to wear my sling with the left sleeve of my sweater rolled up. At first glance, I look like I'm missing my left arm, and I get a lot more looks and stares than I usually do. Joel hugged and kissed me, then placed my double-facebow headgear and headed off to pick up Paul and Jimmy to go to the shop.
 
 
I fixed my hair and did my makeup, then went to watch the news and await the arrival of Judy and Rebekah. When they arrived, Judy suggested that we invite Lori and Scotty to have lunch with us before Lori gets her prosthetics fitted this afternoon. Rebekah and I thought that was a wonderful idea, so I called Lori. They happily accepted our offer, and I said we would be by at ten thirty with the small bus, so it would be easy to transport Lori in her large wheelchair.
 
 
Time got away from us, and we needed to get on our way to pick up Lori and Scotty. When we arrived at their home, they were waiting on the front porch. Lori was, of course, wearing her halo CTLSO and brown KAFO on her remaining leg. Under her KAFO, she wore a dark blue compression stocking. Wearing a denim skirt and blue sweater over her halo jacket with her graying hair in a ponytail, she looked adorable. She also looked very confident, cheerful, and much more comfortable since she could now sit with her right knee bent. Judy showed Scotty how to use the lift, and he got Lori on the bus and her wheelchair secured. Scotty then said, "Can I chauffeur you beautiful ladies today? I've driven everything from jeeps to Abrams tanks, so a little bus like this is nothing." Judy gladly let Scotty drive, and she sat in the back with the rest of us to talk.
 
 
As we were on our way to the China House for lunch, Lori was very chatty and excited about her appointment this afternoon. The prospect of having two legs and two hands once again made her feel really good about her recovery. Lori then began to explain what Ben had planned for her spine.
 
 
"Ben wants me to wear my halo CTLSO for a while longer as I learn to walk with my prosthetic leg and KAFO. I have actually grown to love wearing it, and I feel comforted and safe by its constant, tight embrace. Then, he wants me to wear a brace that is sort of like the one Kathy is wearing for fun. He theorizes that because my muscles are so weak, the constant traction will quickly straighten my spine. I think that Kathy's brace is cool; I'm looking forward to wearing one like it, but not looking forward to getting four more pins placed in my halo ring."
 
 
"When my spine is straight, or at least as straight as possible, Ben will have me wear a cast to over correct my curves, then I'll have to wear a brace like Lydia wore at her wedding-a Kuehnegger brace. I'll wear this brace while my spine stabilizes, and then I'll wear a Milwaukee brace like all you girls wear—likely for the rest of my life. I think I will quite enjoy it all, and Scotty says I'll look sexy in my cast and braces; I have to agree."
 
 
Scotty turned red with Lori's final comment.
 
 
"I also have a consultation with Joe in a couple weeks to finalize my orthodontic treatment plan. He stopped by to see me several times at rehab, but he needs to get scans of my teeth to make his final determination. All he said was that I would be in full bands with several appliances inside my mouth and something called 'extra-oral traction'. I was always jealous of girls with braces when I was a teenager; they looked so cool. Now, I'm finally getting them—bands like everyone wore back then, too, just like you all wear now."
 
 
Just as Lori finished telling her story, Scotty pulled into the parking lot at the restaurant. He helped Judy and Rebekah down the steps, then used the lift to get Lori and me to the ground. Lori led the way inside, looking very confident and poised in her wheelchair and braces. She sure is taking all this in stride, and she even seems to enjoy it. Lori is an amazing and inspiring woman!
 
 
We enjoyed our lunch and attracted quite a bit of attention, as usual. Lori seems to like people looking at her, and when she notices someone staring, she warmly smiles at them, but she doesn't let her crooked teeth show. She even likes to strike up conversations with strangers and talk about her situation. After our meal, we got on the bus and headed to Rogers and Jameson Orthotics and Prosthetics.
 
 
When we went inside, Ben and Pat were chatting with Collene. I asked where Terry and Jackie were, and Ben said they were with Kathy and Lydia. Lori asked why Terry hadn't come along to see Pat get his new legs, and he replied, "At this point, a new set of legs is nothing. It will be the same for you someday, Lori. A new hand or leg will be something you get every few years as technology improves. However, there's a learning curve when you get a new prosthetic; something is always a bit different."
 
 
Billy heard us talking and called for us to come to the fitting room, where all the prosthetic limbs were laid out on a table. There was a woman sitting with her back to us, typing on a computer connected to Lori's leg. Upon hearing us enter, she stood up, and Billy said, "This is Gertie. She represents the company that made your prosthetics and will assist with setting them up. They are new models that we have never worked with before, so Gertie is here to help us out." Gertie warmly greeted us with a thick German accent.
 
 
Pat would be getting his new legs fitted first today, so Lori could see how they were worn. He was walking today and wearing loafers and trousers, which he removed. We all got a good laugh when we saw his pink boxers with red hearts. Pat has a great sense of humor. Pat sat in a wheelchair that Billy had brought him and asked Lori to come closer; he wanted her to see how he took off his legs.
 
 
Pat removed his right leg, explaining how to release the prosthetic from his stump. Then he removed the silicone sleeve from his stump, exposing his bare leg that ended just above where his knee had once been. He then allowed Lori to release his left leg, and she helped him remove it and the silicone liner from his stump.
 
 
Billy then handed Pat new liners that he applied to his stumps, with Lori and Scotty intently watching. He explained how it is important that they fit snugly and have no wrinkles in them. Then Gertie handed him his left leg. He put his shoe on the foot and placed the socket on his stump, then repeated the process on the right. With the brakes set on the wheelchair, Pat carefully stood up, firmly seating his stumps in their new carbon fiber sockets. He told Lori that it is important that her stump is fully seated or there is a chance of her leg falling off, which he said from experience is very embarrassing.
 
 
Pat then walked around the room effortlessly, but Gertie asked him to come over to the computer. She plugged it into each of his legs and made some minor changes to the programming. Pat then walked around again, and he even jogged down the hallway. Gertie, Billy, and Gary were satisfied with Pat's new legs, and so was he.
 
 
Now it was on to Lori's leg, but Ben wanted to do a quick examination of Lori's right leg first. Scotty and Billy helped her up onto the table, and Scotty removed her KAFO. Ben then did some neurological and strength tests. Lori's hips were strong; however, the rest of her right leg is very weak, and she has little control over her muscles but has fairly good feeling, especially in her foot. Ben said that between that and the strength in her hips, she would be walking in no time. Scott then helped her put her KAFO back on, and Gertie handed Scotty Lori's leg and silicone liner.
 
 
Scott, with Pat's assistance, put the liner on what is left of Lori's stump. Then, her prosthetic leg was fitted, and Billy and Scotty helped Lori stand and seat her stump in the clear plastic socket. Lori asked, "Billy, why is my socket clear plastic instead of carbon fiber like Pat's?" Billy explained, "It's so we can see how the socket fits you, plus the material is far less expensive. You will need several sockets made until your stump stabilizes, then I'll make you one like Pat's."
 
 
Lori sat back down in her wheelchair, and Gertie had her wheel over to the parallel bars. She stood up, taking hold of one bar, with Billy behind her and Scotty in front. She took several small, halting steps, and Gertie told her to stop. She brought over the computer and modified the programming of Loris' leg, then had her take a few more steps. Gertie was satisfied and said the final programming would be done at the rehab center. Scotty was overjoyed to see his wife walk again, and he hugged her, bumping his head on her halo ring as they kissed and shed tears of joy.
 
 
Lori then returned to her wheelchair and wheeled over to get her MyoHand fitted. This prosthetic simply slipped onto her arm and over her elbow, allowing the electrodes to make direct contact with her skin. Gertie and Billy checked the fit, and Gertie turned the device on and plugged in the computer. She asked Lori to try to open and close her non-existent hand as she typed on the computer. Then she asked Lori to rotate her wrist while more settings were made. Finally, Gertie unplugged the computer and told Lori to try to open and close her hand. Her new hand moved with jerky motions, but Lori did have control over it. Again, Gertie said the final programming would be done at rehab when Lori learns how to use her prosthetics.
 
 
Lori pulled a stocking and shoe from her bag that matched what she was wearing on her right leg and asked Scotty to put them on her prosthetic leg. Her prosthetic leg had the profile of a normal leg, especially when covered with the stocking. Lori wheeled over to the mirror and said, "Wow! I look normal again, with two legs and two hands. This is wonderful!"
 
 
Lori, Scott, and Pat thanked everyone for their work today, and Pat and Ben went on their way to pick up Jackie and Terry to head home. The rest of us got loaded up in the little bus and headed to the park. Lori wanted to be seen as a complete woman for the first time in almost a year.
 

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #54 on: 06. July 2024, 04:42:29 AM »
Ch. 152 - Weekend with Lori and Scott
 
 
It's been a few weeks since I last wrote, so let me fill you in on some things. First off, the last few weeks have been very relaxing after the hustle and bustle of our trip, then the busy week after we got back. Joel, Paul, Jimmy, and Billy went ice fishing in the mountains a couple weeks ago. It was the first time I had been on my own since actually needing to wear my leg braces. It was hard with my left arm in a cast, but Judy stayed with me, which was a great help.
 
 
Lori is doing great, too, as you will see. Her intense physical therapy and strong motivation have led to her being able to walk short distances on her own. She still uses her wheelchair quite often, or she walks with Scotty holding onto her left upper arm. With her up and walking again, she doesn't have to take her wheelchair everywhere anymore, which is very convenient.
 
 
Lori is also doing really well learning to use her MyoHand. This has been much more difficult than learning to walk with her with her KAFO and C-Leg 4. Ben is very satisfied with how her spine is doing, too. She will soon be wearing a special halo traction brace to begin her scoliosis treatment. The one thing that Lori is extremely excited about is getting her orthodontic braces. She had consultations with Dr. Joe, and he is formulating her rather extensive treatment plan.
 
 
Jose and Rose just got their jaws unwired the other day after being wired for about five weeks. They really enjoyed the first few days, then had a pretty rough week. Then they settled into living with their jaws wired shut and really enjoyed it. They had a great time and really liked interacting with people when they went out, which was quite often. It is something they plan to do again in the future.
 
 
Terry had to cut short his time wired shut, not because of any issues with his wires but because he had to make an unplanned trip to Europe. He has enough trouble speaking Croatian without his jaw wired shut, and I bet his appliances didn't help either, but his trip went well.
 
 
Annie and Charlie are still in their shoulder-spica Minerva casts, but they plan to remove them this weekend. Sally is still in her Minerva cast and has decided to wear it several more weeks, but Stan is removing his DSLWCs this weekend. All the newlywed couples have really enjoyed their first weeks of marriage in their casts, braces, or wires.
 
 
Speaking of casts, it is time for Emme, Rebekah, and I to get our casts changed. Emme had X-rays taken on Wednesday, and Ben said everything looks good. However, he wants her to remain in a plaster LAFTS cast for another six weeks, which means Rebekah and I will be doing the same. Ben knows Billy is skilled at applying casts, and he trusts him to change Emme's cast. After we go out for dinner tonight, we will all be getting our new plaster casts. Oh, Scott and Lori are not only going to join us for dinner; they are going to stay the weekend with us. Pete and Emme will be staying with Rebekah and Paul, too.
 
 
Since Rebekah and I are in our casts, we helped each other get our guest suites ready for the weekend. Just as we finished up at my place, Judy came crutching in. We talked for a while and awaited our husbands, along with Billy and Collene. The guys arrived and went to get cleaned up and dressed for dinner, and we hoped they would wear their KAFOs and Milwaukee braces. Collene and Billy arrived, and Billy was wearing his braces. Soon we were all ready to go, and the guys were all braced up but without crutches, walking with unlocked knees. Judy crutched out to get the small bus, and we headed to Scotty and Lori's place.
 
 
When we arrived at Lori and Scott's place, Joel went to the front door, then went inside. After a few moments inside, Joel emerged and walked back to the bus with a suitcase. Following him were Lori and Scotty. Lori was walking with her right knee locked and a forearm crutch in her right hand. She moved slowly and carefully, but confidently, towards the bus, with Scotty following close behind. It was too dark to see how she was dressed; all we could see was her silhouette.
 
 
Lori reached the door to the bus, which has two steps to get on board. With Scotty close behind her, she placed her crutch in her MyoHand, then firmly gripped the handrail with her now-free right hand. Lori carefully stepped up, leading with her C-leg, followed by her braced right leg. She repeated the process at the second step, climbing on board without assistance.
 
 
Lori turned to Scotty, who had stayed one step behind her the entire time, and said, "See, baby, I told you I could do it on my own. I've practiced all week on the bus at rehab; that's why I've been so worn out in the evenings." Scotty said, "You are an amazing woman, Lori. I love you so much, and I'm so proud of you. You never complain or feel sorry for yourself. Well, maybe you complained and cried a little about your teeth, but you'll get them fixed soon." She turned to him, and they hugged and kissed.
 
 
Now that Lori was on the well-lit bus, we could see that she looked gorgeous. Her long graying hair was in braids, and her makeup was light, enhancing her natural beauty, with no attempt to hide the large scar on her cheek. She was wearing a gray sweater over her halo CTLSO jacket and a knee-length wool skirt, showing off her braced leg and prosthetic. On her feet were the pair of Mary Janes she got on our shopping trip. We all commented on her style, poise, and confidence, causing her to blush as she and Scotty took their seats.
 
 
Judy turned down the lights, and we were on our way to Villa Roma, a high-end Italian restaurant we had never been to. Well, we haven't been there, but Pete and Emme have. It is one of the places they go when Emme is blindsimming. They now have a few places they frequent that only know Emme as a blind, crippled woman. Lori and Scott had only seen pictures of Emme wearing her contacts and short videos of her walking with her cane. Tonight, they will see Emme, the blind, braced beauty, in action.
 
 
When we arrived at Villa Roma, we saw Pete's car in the lot; we were running a bit late. The guys helped Rebekah and me off the bus using the wheelchair lift, and Lori carefully descended the steps, with Scotty ready to catch her if she slipped. Upon going inside, we saw Pete and Emme, with her milky white eyes, sitting in the lounge, enjoying a glass of wine. Scott and Lori intently watched Emme get up from her chair and unfold her white cane. She walked stiffly with her knees locked and holding Pete's hand. We got to our table, where Scotty and Lori sat across from Emme. They wanted to watch how she ate her meal without her sight.
 
 
After our excellent and very expensive dinner, we all got back on the bus and made the trip back to my house, with Pete and Emme following in their car. Once home, our guests got settled in for the weekend, and then it was on to business: three of us needed fresh, snug-fitting plaster casts on our arms, fingers, and thumbs.
 
 
We all got changed into something more comfortable and gathered in the cast room. Billy is doing all the casting, with Collene and Judy assisting. The first to get her new cast was Emme, the only one of us who actually needs her cast. When Blakely decorated her cast, she did so in a way that it could be cut in half without damaging the artwork. Billy began to carefully cut Emme's cast off, reminding her not to move her arm or fingers at all after it's removed. Once her cast was removed, Judy gently held Emme's arm and wrist in place while Collene carefully cleaned her arm with antibacterial wipes as Billy prepared the fresh cotton stockinette.
 
 
Judy ensured Emme's arm didn't move a fraction of an inch as Billy applied the fresh stockinette. Smaller pieces were then placed on her thumb and fingers before the soft cotton padding was applied. Finally, many rolls of plaster bandages were dunked in water and carefully wrapped around Emme's arm, thumb, index, and middle fingers. The cast was rubbed smooth and perfectly formed to the contour of her arm and hand. Emme was now in the cast she would wear for the next six weeks; it was beautiful and a bit thicker than her old cast. Her fresh cast was placed in a sling, where it would remain for a few days until it was hard.
 
 
Now Billy said, "OK, who's next?" I looked to Rebekah and nodded as best I could in my Milwaukee brace and said, "You go, Bekah." The process was repeated for Rebekah, then for myself. After my cast was applied, I noticed how much more snugly it fit compared to my old one. I hope my arm isn't getting too weak and atrophied. I really want to get back on my forearm crutches or use my manual wheelchair as soon as I can once my cast adventure is over. With the casting over, we all retired to the den to watch a movie before bed.
 
 
Today we are all just planning to hang around at Collene and Billy's house and take it easy. We need to let our casts have some time to fully dry, and spending a day relaxing with friends would be ideal. Last night, Judy had invited Lori and me to have coffee with her while Joel helped Jimmy and Scotty go over a business contract before Jimmy signed it.
 
 
I had noticed a sparkle in both Lori and Scotty's eyes this morning; there was something different about them. As I wheeled and Lori walked slowly, using one crutch, down to Judy's cottage, I asked about her upbeat mood.
 
 
Lori got quiet and turned red before saying, "It's sort of personal, Leigh; I don't talk about these things, but I'll confide in you. Last night, Scotty and I made love for the first time since my accident, and it was absolutely mind-blowing. He was worried he would hurt me, but I said my arm and leg were fully healed and my wonderful halo brace was protecting my spine. It's embarrassing, but this morning, we did it again with me wearing my leg brace and prosthetics; it was more amazing than last night, but I have said too much. Sorry!"
 
 
I said it was OK and that I understood. I expressed that I was glad they were able to be intimate again and said nothing more since Jimmy was approaching. We talked with Jimmy, who was wearing all his braces again today, but the morning chill cut our conversation short.
 
 
Lori loved relaxing in Judy and Jimmy's cottage; it's so cozy and comfortable. We enjoyed conversation and coffee, then Lori asked Judy if she had a power wheelchair she could borrow to make the trip to Collene's. Judy retrieved her small power chair from the spare room, Lori took a seat, and Judy placed her crutch in the holder on the back. We wheeled, and Judy crutched down the path and across the bridge to Collene's home, with Lori commenting on how beautiful it is here.
 
 
After arriving at Collene's, we helped her get breakfast started. Soon, all the others trickled in, and we sat down to eat. After breakfast, we did our spinal exercises and explained to Lori that she would be doing the same after her halo was off. The guys set up a card table and got a serious game of poker started that would last well into the evening. While us girls were talking, Lori's phone rang. She answered and we could only hear what Lori was saying:
 
 
"Hi, this is Lori."
 
 
"Hi Sally, surprised to hear from you on the weekend."
 
 
"Oh, that's right, you're open one Saturday a month. Yes, I can work on the computer easily with my spine immobilized, too."
 
 
"A cancellation? Yes, I'm free then; ten o'clock on Monday for my spacers?"
 
 
"Thursday at three for my braces?"
 
 
"Can I get all my appliances placed then? I know there is a lot going into my mouth."
 
 
"That's great; let me ask them."
 
 
Lori turns to Judy and me and says, "Sally says your new colored splints are ready. Can you stop by after work on Thursday? I'll be getting my braces then, too."
 
 
I said that would be great since I was going into the office with Judy for my contract work that day.
 
 
"They will be there, too, Sally. Thanks for calling."
 
 
"I'm so excited; see you then. Goodbye."
 
 
Lori was overjoyed with the prospect of finally getting braces, and it was all she could talk about the rest of the day.
 
 
That evening, I got a phone call. It was Shelly from Rancho Gordo, where we often go to eat. She asked if I wanted to have brunch with her tomorrow. I told her about our little get-together and that brunch was in our plan for tomorrow, and she was welcomed to join us. She accepted the offer and said she had a favor to ask of me.
 
 
The next morning, we all got dressed nicely, with the guys wearing their braces, and we headed to brunch. We met Shelly, and it was nice to be able to have a long conversation with her. The favor she desired was to have a cast applied to her left leg, and I said it would be no problem. I invited her to stay the night with us and get her cast in the morning. Sally said that would be great; her husband is out of town until tomorrow evening, and she could surprise him with a cast upon his return. Shelly was very excited; she has never worn a cast before.
 
 
After our meal, we headed back to my place. Shelly arrived later in the afternoon, excited to finally get to wear a cast. We all had a wonderful evening together, and Shelly's first cast adventure would begin tomorrow morning.
 

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #55 on: 09. July 2024, 19:05:41 PM »
Ch. 153 – A Cast, Bands, and Wires

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #56 on: 09. July 2024, 19:06:06 PM »
Ch. 154 - Judy's Wires

 
With Judy and I being wired shut, things are a bit different this morning. I am going to crutch down to Judy's place for a liquid breakfast while Jimmy and Joel eat together. Then they are going to the shop to finish our para transit limo bus conversion. I'm really excited to see how it turns out. On my way to Judy's, I met Jimmy along the way and asked him what he thought of Judy's splint and wires.

 
"Oh, it's crazy what you ladies do, but I love it! It was a great surprise, and her splint and wires look so cool. I love how she can hardly speak—just like you. I can sort of understand her, but she has to repeat things, like you had to when you greeted me. But let me tell you what: kissing her is a lot of fun, and it's a thrill for both of us. I love running my tongue across her splint, bands, and wires, and then our tongues meet in the little hole in her splint. It's so sensual and erotic, as you and Joel probably know. She's waiting for you and has mixed up some protein shakes that are really good; I had one last night. Oh, by the way, you look marvelous in your splint and wires, just like Judy does." I thanked Jimmy for his compliment and wished him a good day.
 
 
Once at Judy's, we had our shakes, which were very filling. However, they were very difficult to consume, more so for me than Judy. Since we can't bring our lips together, we must feed ourselves using large syringes; straws won't work. This wasn't a problem for Judy, but it was for me. With my left arm in a cast, I couldn't hold the syringe to fill it; Judy had to do it for me like Joel had to do last night at dinner.
 
 
We decided that we would just hang around Judy's place and enjoy our splints and wires while relaxing by the fire. We'll go out with Collene tomorrow, then out to dinner, too. I often go to Rancho Gordo when wired shut; they are good about blending food for me.
 
 
Later in the afternoon, while we were lounging around listening to Valentina Lisitsa play the piano, Judy cried out in pain. She had a look of fear on her face, and I asked, "What's wrong, dear?" In a muffled voice, she replied, "Oh Leigh, it hurts so bad! A muscle spasm in my jaw." I wheeled to the kitchen and wet a towel with hot water, wheeled back, and placed the warm compress on Judy's cheeks. It brought relief and calm as I held her tightly in my arms as best I could with my arm in a cast.

 
Once the discomfort completely dissipated, I explained that cramps and spasms will occur when wired shut, usually only during the first week or so. Judy was worried it would happen again, and I said that it probably would—a small price to pay for the pleasure our wires bring. Judy hugged me very tightly and, through her splint and wires, said, "I love you and Joel so much, and Collie and the boys do, too. You both have done so much for all of us, and from the minute I met you, you have treated me like family. Leigh, if it weren't for you and your gracious friends, Billy and Collie would never have met, and neither would Jimmy and I. Thank you so much for making all of our lives so perfect."

 
We both began to cry and held each other tightly, and I said, "Judy, you and Collene are the daughters that Joel and I never had. We love you both so very much, and Billy and Jimmy, too. Joel and I have the greatest family in the world: you and your sister." After a few minutes of tears and hugs, I said, "OK, Judy, enough of this mushy stuff; let's go make dinner for the guys." Judy got her crutches, stood up, and jokingly yet lovingly said, "Let's go, mom."
 
 
When we got to my place, I gave Judy my 'wired jaw cookbook' with recipes I had compiled over the years for liquid and soft meals. She thought a spicy tomato bisque would be good, and I agreed; it's one of my favorites. I wheeled around the kitchen and pantry, getting Judy the items she needed. She did the cooking, and it smelled great.
 
 
It was then that Judy and I, along with several other of the girls, got a group text from Blakely that read:

 
"I thought I would text since I know some of you have your jaws wired shut and probably can't speak. I got into town about an hour ago and have been with Billy and Collene. Billy just removed my casts; it sure feels funny, and it hurts a bit to move my wrist and ankle. Good thing I brought flat shoes to wear, but I want to get back in heels ASAP. I take my parents to the airport tomorrow and won't be back until late. I hope we can meet up on Sunday; I want to see Leigh and Judy with their wires and splints, and I have some things to show you, too. See you soon, Blake."
 
 
When the guys got home, they went to shower and change for the evening. Judy and I went to the kitchen to give the bisque a final blend and then strained it just as the guys entered the dining room. Both Joel and Jimmy had tight elastics on their surgical hooks, firmly immobilizing their jaws. Seeing Jimmy banded shut brought a smile to Judy's face; she was pleased to see him in a similar situation to hers.
 
 
Dinner was a bit of a mess, not for us girls, but for the guys. It was easy for Judy and I to eat with our syringes and the hole in our splints. Joel did a good job keeping my syringe filled since I can't do it on my own with my cast. However, the guys, especially Jimmy, made quite a mess. Jimmy and Judy had played around with tight elastics before, but Jimmy had never tried to eat with his jaw firmly clamped shut. It was quite a challenge for him; he had to go wash his face after dinner.

 
Since none of us were speaking too clearly, conversation was out of the question, so we simply watched a movie together. Judy picked out a romance film, and by the time it was over, we were all in a tender mood. The kids went home, likely to have an exciting evening together, and Joel helped me take a bath with my cast covered. After my bath, Joel dried me off and prepared my body brace for me to sleep in.
 
 
I told Joel I wanted to sleep in just my Milwaukee brace and cuddle up next to him the best I could with my weak body. I was feeling romantic, but not in a sexual way; I just wanted to cling to Joel and have him hold me tight. He put me in my Milwaukee brace and helped me into bed. He laid down next to me and held me tight. We cuddled and kissed with our immobile jaws, then drifted off to sleep.
 
 
The next morning, Joel helped me clean my wires and splint, then got me braced and dressed. Since they hadn't finished up the bus yesterday, Joel got ready to work. We went to the kitchen for coffee, then the sisters and their husbands arrived. Collene made us all fruit smoothies and carefully strained out all the seeds—an excellent start to the day. Joel and Jimmy then removed their elastics, and they and Billy headed to the shop. Billy is installing leather covers on all the interior handrails.
 
 
After the guys left, I said, "So, Collene, is there anything you want to do today? Judy and I are up for anything. My cast is dry, so I can use my platform crutch; I don't need my wheelchair."
 
 
Collene replied, "Billy is jealous of all the guys with their military vehicles. Paul checked out a truck his friend Abe has for sale, a Dodge M-37, that I want to purchase for Billy. He'll love it, but he'll have to help me get in and out of it; it sits high. Then, I need to go to the grocery store; we're low on just about everything. Oh Leigh, just Collie from now on, please; we're family."

 
Judy was excited about going out with her splint and wires. Collie called Abe and made the arrangements, then said to us, "What a coincidence! Paul and Rebekah are also going to take a look at one of Abe's cars today; we'll all meet at noon."
 
 
When we arrived at Abe's warehouse, Judy and I looked at his extensive collection of vehicles while Paul, Rebekah, and Collie made their deals. When it was said and done, Collie purchased the M-37 for Billy, and Rebekah got a late 70's Chevy Nova military police car, which Paul will install hand control in for her. Before parting ways, we invited Paul and Rebekah to join us for dinner. Abe said nothing about our braces, my cast, or our wires and splints.
 
 
When we got back home, the guys were already there. The bus was parked in front and looked great. It's now painted black with purple, blue, and green accents. It looked nothing like it did before; it's a party bus now. We went into the house, where we found the guys dressed for dinner and waited for Paul and Rebekah to arrive.
 
 
While waiting, Collie asked me if I had heard how Shelly was doing wearing her LLC. I said she called me the other night and that she was really enjoying her cast and wished she could wear it full term; however, she has to go back to work soon. Judy went online to 'The Caster Club' to see if Shelly had posted any updates there.

 
Judy found the post from Shelly, or 'ShellCast' as she is known. It was the usual banter about wearing a cast for the first time, but her final entry on Friday evening was very interesting. It read:
 
 
"Well, it looks like I'm going to be in my LLC for a full six weeks. My husband and I were at the park this afternoon, and I was having a great time crutching around in my wonderful cast when I ran across my manager. Before I could turn away, she called out my name and came rushing over. "Oh my, Shelly, what happened to your leg? Are you okay? That's a huge cast you're wearing," she said.
 
 
"I had made up a story about testing a new cast tape for a friend, but before I could say anything, my husband repeated what I told him when he first saw me in my cast and said, 'Shell fractured her tibia and fibula last weekend in a fall. She'll be in this cast for six weeks.'"
 
 
"My heart sank, as my husband realized his blunder, leaving me no way to talk my way out of this. After sympathy was expressed, I assured her that I was in no pain and was doing great with my cast. Then my boss said, 'I hate to ask you this, Shelly, and I know you can't wait tables on crutches, but we are really shorthanded; do you think you could work as a hostess? I understand if you can't, but it would really help if you could.' I really couldn't refuse, and it would be fun to go to work in my cast, so I agreed. Tomorrow night will be my first night working in my cast, and I'm nervous and excited. A few days in a cast has now turned into a month and a half. Wish me luck!"

 
Paul and Rebekah arrived, and Collie told them Shelly's story. We'll soon see her and find out how things are going.

 
We then went out to the bus, and Joel got in the driver's seat and opened the passenger door. The interior of the bus was lit with LEDs that you could make any color. There were also black lights hidden everywhere that made the safety stripes on the steps and floor glow brightly. We all climbed on board, and the entire ceiling looked like the night sky, with hundreds of points of light that looked like stars. The black light also brought out the highlights in the upholstery, flooring, and ceiling. In the back, there was a mini bar next to the wheelchair lift.

 
Once we were all seated, the lights were turned down, with only the black lights and starry ceiling left on. It was then that I noticed Judy's big splint glowing brightly in her mouth from the black light. Before I could say anything, Billy said, "You should see your splints. They look so cool, glowing under these lights. Just think of going to a club wearing them; you girls would get a ton of attention!"
 
 
When we went inside Rancho Gordo, Shelly was at the hostess stand wearing a short black dress that really showed off her LLC. On her right foot was a black wedge sandal, and her hair was pulled back; she really looked hot! Shelly smiled and said, "Well, you don't look surprised; I guess you saw my post on 'The Casters Club'?" Collie said that we had, and Shelly replied, "It's my dinner break; can I join you this evening?" We all said yes, and Shelly led us to the private room in the back.
 
 
Over dinner, Shelly said, "You won't believe how much attention I'm getting; I love it. I have had many gentlemen and even a few ladies slip me twenties, fifties, and even a hundred dollar bill for a 'good table' or to skip the wait. I have made more money from tips in the last four hours than I make waiting tables on a busy Friday night. If this keeps up, I'll have enough money to get orthodontic braces, something I have always wanted. I wonder what tips are like for a cute waitress with braces and headgear."

 
We all laughed at Shelly's comments and enjoyed our dinner. The chef did a great job blending and straining soup for Judy and me; we even had a second helping. However, it was getting late, and Blake will likely be by early tomorrow morning, so we said goodnight to Shelly and headed home.

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #57 on: 12. July 2024, 18:03:40 PM »
Ch. 155 - Blakely's Arrival - Part 1
 
 
Well, I was right; Blakely was up early this morning and sent me a text just after seven:
 
 
B: Good morning, Leigh. Are you up yet?
 
 
L: Oh, good morning, Blake. Yes, we're up; how are you today?
 
 
B: Great! I'm excited to see you and all the friends I made at the retreat. My plan this morning is to take Gordie out for a ride, then we'll come over to your place. I haven't ridden him for a long time, and Billy said you have a stable for Gordie to stay in. Is this OK?
 
 
L: That sounds great, Blake. Now I know what Billy was doing down at the stable the other night.
 
 
B: When I got my casts off, Billy mentioned you have a stable for guests with horses. He said he would get it prepared for Gordie to stay in if I wanted to spend the night at your place.
 
 
L: I'm sure Gordie will be right at home here. I don't remember if I gave you my address; do you know where we live?
 
 
B: Actually, I don't Leigh.
 
 
L: We're at 5262; there is a big iron gate. The first one from your place is Billy and Collene's; ours is the second one. The gate code is 3006. Where the road splits, stay right. The left split goes to Jimmy and Judy's and then on to Paul and Rebekah's.
 
 
B: Wow, that is where you all live? My parents always called it 'the compound'.
 
 
L: That's funny, Blake. That is what we call it. See you soon, and enjoy your ride; it's a beautiful morning.
 
 
B: We'll have a great time. See you soon, Leigh.
 
 
By the time I got braced up and dressed, Jimmy and Judy had arrived with Collie and Billy. Joel blended up some smoothies with protein powder for all of us, which were very good. Over our liquid breakfast, Judy said she had a rough time early this morning.
 
 
"I woke up around four this morning with terrible pain and spasms in my jaw. It hurt so bad, and with my muscles jerking around, my wires really pulled on my teeth; they are still quite sore. Jimmy was extremely concerned, and I was barely able to tell him to get me a hot compress, just like you did for me, Leigh. Soon, the pain and spasms subsided, and I feel better now, except for my sore teeth."
 
 
I explained again that the first few days of being wired shut are the hardest, then it gets easier. Judy recalled the experiences that Rose and Jose had with their splints and wires during the first week and how things got easier to the point where they got bored with their situation. Just as we were finishing our smoothies, Paul and Rebekah came crutching up to the house with Paul in his Kuehnegger brace and KAFOs, and we waited for Blake to arrive.
 
 
Soon, all of our phones beeped; it was the gate alarm. On the screen, we saw Blake getting back on Gordie after punching the code into the gate. She was wearing a western shirt, blue jeans, a leather gun belt, and, of course, her trademark high-heeled hiking boots—she's a very fashionable cowgirl. However, what really caught our eye was the device she was wearing. She rode out of view before any of us could get a good look.
 
 
Billy and Jimmy, who often look after the Santos' horses when they are away for the weekend, headed down to the stable. We watched from the window as Blake rode up to the stable; we were still unable to figure out what the device she was wearing was. On her chest there was a plate with straps, sort of like the front of a SOMI brace. The part on her head looked like the liner from a military helmet. Between these parts was a curved bar that was fully articulated; the movement of her head was not at all restricted. In front of her mouth, there was a cross piece with what appeared to be elastics going into her mouth. It must be some sort of orthodontic protraction appliance.
 
 
We then saw Billy turn Gordie out onto the pasture, and the trio came walking back to the house, with Jimmy carrying Blake's saddlebags. When they got inside, Blake took off her coat and belt with a Colt Bisley in the holster. She hung them on the coat rack while Jimmy took her bags to the guest room. Blake then said, "It's so good to see all of you again! Let me take this thing off so I can give you all hugs." She then removed the elastics from her braces, undid the straps, and removed her orthodontic protraction appliance. Blake then came over to me, carefully lifted me from my wheelchair, and hugged me tightly. She gently set me back down and proceeded to have a tearful reunion with the rest of her friends. Blake sat down to talk, and Joel brought her a cup of coffee.
 
 
Rebekah asked Blake about the device she was wearing when she arrived. Blake said it's called 'The Bow' protraction appliance. She explained that it is a bit cumbersome; however, it's extremely comfortable to wear—she even wears it at work when not wearing her facemask or her other device, 'The Crane'. Paul asked what 'The Crane' was, and Blake said, "Let me show you," as she got up and walked to the guest room.
 
 
Blake soon returned wearing a hard collar-style neck brace, but it had a T-shaped bar at the front. From the top of this bar were elastics that went inside her mouth to the hooks on her upper arch. It combined orthopedics and orthodontics, and Blake really looked great wearing it. Blake then told us all about this appliance:
 
 
"This is my other protraction appliance I enjoy wearing. It's called 'The Crane' and this is what I wear most days at work. For some time, I've had neck and back pain, and not only does this brace move my teeth, it also relieves my neck pain. My orthodontist was initially against me wearing these devices; she just wanted me in my facemask, but finally relented and gave me the proper elastics to use with these appliances. But enough about me for now; I want to know about the splints and wires that Judy and Leigh have; it looks extremely intense!"
 
 
Since I often wear a splint with my jaw wired shut, I can speak more clearly than Judy, so I began to explain things to Blake. I told Blake that Judy wanted to experience wearing a splint and being wired shut, sort of like her wanting to experience wearing casts. I said I was also doing it to show support, just like Rebekah and I are wearing casts in support of Emme with her broken wrist. Blake asked many questions, and we answered them for her; she then expressed a desire to be wired shut someday, too.
 
 
Blake then said, "Speaking of Emme, I talked to her and Pete last night on the way home from the airport. She really wants to see me for the first time since she was blind the entire time at the resort. Pete suggested that we all go out to dinner tonight and let them know if that was OK. Emme said something about the Brazilian steakhouse, where she is known as a handicapped blind girl, and Gary and Rita will join us, too. I really want to thank Rita for all the kind words, encouragement, and support that day I first ventured out in my braces and headgear. Things have gone so well since then, and I had my casts to distract me from my orthodontics, which really helped, too."
 
 
We agreed that dinner was a great idea, and Blake called Emme to let her know. During the conversation, Blake asked if it was OK for Pete and Emme to stay with Paul and Rebekah's, which was fine. The girls chatted for a few minutes, then Blake said, "Emme and Pete will be over in a little while. After she gets to see me for the first time, she'll put in her contacts for our evening out. By the way, Emme said the restaurant is rather formal, so I think we'll all need to change before we go; I know I can't go dressed as I am now."
 
 
We spent the entire day chatting and catching up. Everything is going great for Blake, but she often mentions having pain in her back, knees, and ankles. Kathy and I think Blake has scoliosis. Maybe we can talk her into seeing the doctor Sam saw for her back. 
 
 
Time flew by, and we all went to get changed before Pete and Emme arrived. Joel helped me put on my black brace with wedge booties and a black dress that was a stark contrast to my white cast. My thickly framed black glasses and pulled-back hair completed my look. Joel dressed very nicely but didn't wear any of his braces, which was fine with me. He's been a real trooper, wearing his braces all the time when not at work, as do Paul, Jimmy, and Billy. They seem to really love the braced life as much as all of us girls do.
 
 
When I wheeled out to the den with Joel following, Blake was waiting for us, and she looked stunning. We had always seen her in her casual western-style outfits, but never anything formal. She was in a black cocktail dress with long sleeves and strappy stiletto sandals on her feet. Her dirty blond hair was up in a messy bun, which was the perfect look for her. Around her neck was her Crane neck brace, with two thick elastics running from it and disappearing between her lips. The country girl had transformed herself into someone you would expect to see on the red carpet in Hollywood. Blake looked absolutely ravishing.
 
 
Blake said to us, "I don't look too bad for a tomboy country girl, do I?" Joel and I told her how beautiful she looked, not that she didn't look great before. Blake said, "I may be a bit of a tomboy, but a very pretty one that likes high heels. This girl can style herself to fit in anywhere. It's going to be great to go out all dressed up. I rarely get the chance to go anywhere formal."
 
 
Soon, all the others arrived, and the girls were in black braces and dressed to the nines. Judy and Collie were in matching dresses, and if it weren't for their eye and hair color, they looked like twins. Collie and Rebekah had on their black headgear, and Judy's brightly colored splint and wires really stood out, as did mine. Like Joel, none of the guys were wearing their orthopedic braces—just their usual headgear. Rebekah was in her small power chair, like me, so as not to have to deal with crutches. Everyone complimented Blake on her very sexy yet classy look.
 
 
We heard Pete and Emme pull up outside. I know this will be an emotional reunion for Emme since she has spent many hours with Blake but has only seen pictures of her. Joel went to the door to greet our guests, with Blake right behind him. When they entered, they were both dressed for the evening, and Emme was, like the rest of us, all in black: shoes, braces, dress, and headgear. Well, almost all in black; her plaster cast was the exception. 
 
 
Emme and Blake rushed to each other and hugged, with Emme wrapping her casted arm tightly around Blake. Emme said, "Oh Blake, you are such a beautiful girl; the pictures and even your self-portrait don't do you justice. Just look at you and your crooked teeth, Blake. You would be even cuter with bands like mine. I know getting braces and headgear has been rough for you, but you sure look great!"
 
 
"You're so sweet, Emme," replied Blake. "I have fallen in love with my braces and headgear now, and I love wearing them thanks to the encouragement you all gave me. I know how much you love your braces, and I can't wait to show you my other appliance. Hey, we have time now. Everything is in the guest room. Let's go."
 
 
Emme quickly said hi to everyone, then the girls vanished for almost an hour. When they returned, Emme was using her white cane; her eyes were milky white and blind. Blake helped her to take a seat, and we all talked until it was time to leave for dinner.
 
 
Paul helped Rebekah and I get on the bus using the lift. Emme carefully climbed the steps, and when she turned to take a seat, her eyes were glowing green. The white pigment in her contacts must be sensitive to black light; her eyes looked so eerie and spooky. We all described to her how she looked and took pictures for her to see later. On the way, Pete told us about where we were going, and he mentioned they had a dance floor. Blake's eyes lit up, and she said, "If only I had a dance partner; I'm a great ballroom dancer." I said to her, "Joel and Rebekah used to dance and win competitions until she started wearing her braces full time. Joel would love to dance with you, and I don't mind one bit."
 
 
When we arrived at the restaurant, Gary and Rita were sitting in the lounge by the dance floor. We sat with them, enjoyed a cocktail, and watched several couples dance. Blake shyly said to Joel, "Want to dance, Joel? Leigh said it was OK." Joel took her up on the offer, and they hit the dance floor. The music was slow, and they danced a few songs, then Joel asked for the tempo to be kicked up a bit. The two of them put on quite a show, and I think Joel has found a new partner for competitions.
 
 
We then got our table and had a wonderful meal. Emme had made arrangements for Judy and me to get our soup blended and strained. We even had a few bits of beef that our husbands cut up really fine and fed to us through the holes in our splints. Judy and I will definitely be back when we are unwired; the food is excellent, and Emme can go as a blind, crippled girl, too!
 
 
After dinner, we headed home for a good night's sleep. It has been a busy and emotional day; we're all tired. Tomorrow I'll spend time with Blake doing whatever she wants after Judy and I get our jaws unwired.


Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #58 on: 14. July 2024, 18:25:53 PM »
Ch. 156 - Blakely's Arrival - Part 2
 
 
Joel and I were up early as usual this morning, and he helped me clean my splint and wires. He then got me dressed casually for a relaxing day with Blake. I like her style, so I opted for a denim skirt and flannel shirt. They looked great with my brown braces and Ariat closed-back clogs. I opted to once again use my power chair since I don't know what the day will hold. Joel got dressed for work, then went to start coffee and breakfast while I did my makeup and hair, then I wheeled out to the kitchen.
 
 
Blake soon joined us, and she was wearing the outfit she arrived in yesterday. She was also wearing her 'Bow' protraction setup. I really wanted to try it on, but I can't wear anything like that with my Milwaukee brace; maybe Billy can make a reverse-pull attachment for my CTLSO. It would be extremely intense to have my spinal brace connected to my orthodontic braces. Blake drank her coffee using a silicone straw, so she didn't have to remove her appliance, and I used my syringe that she kept filled for me. This is the only time being wired shut has been a bit of a hassle—not because of the wires and splint but because of my arm being in a cast. I can't fill my syringe to feed myself without help, and straws are useless since I can't bring my lips together because of my large splint.
 
 
The rest of the gang from last night soon joined us. Emme still had her contacts in and was using her cane, but she said she would remove them before going to the shop. It seems that Emme takes every opportunity to wear her blinding contacts, and Judy and I talk often about getting some for ourselves. Speaking of Judy, it was then that I asked her if she was ready to get unwired so she could eat breakfast. She replied, "Didn't you see the email I sent earlier? I need to get my wires tightened, not removed; they are a bit loose after the muscle spasms I had. The deal we made was for the weekend, so you can get unwired if you want, but not me."
 
 
I wheeled back to the bedroom and got my phone. There was an email to her department with a Bcc to me. I read the message aloud, with Jimmy and Judy smiling at each other.
 
 
"Good morning. I wanted to let you all know that I had a doctor's appointment after work on Thursday that did not go according to plan. I had a procedure to flush my jaw joints to help with my TMJ pain. I was supposed to wear a splint with my jaw banded shut for a few days, then only wear the splint at night; that's why I never mentioned the procedure. However, it was decided that I would be required to wear my splint 24/7 for six weeks with my jaw wired shut around the appliance, and the first few days have been extremely difficult. I'm on a completely liquid diet and have great difficulty speaking. Otherwise, I feel fine, and I'll be at work today. I've attached a picture so you can see the appliance I'll be wearing for the next month and a half."
 
 
Joel then said, "Well, Judy, let's get those wires of yours really tight; that's how Leigh likes hers. So Leigh, are you going to get unwired or are you going to remain wired shut as long as Judy is?"
 
 
I said that if I wasn't in my arm cast, I would keep my wires and splint for the duration. However, with my arm in a cast, I can't feed myself and can only drink from a squeeze bottle, so getting unwired is best for now, despite really wanting to continue my adventure. As we made our way to the cast room where our dental chair is, Blake asked if she could watch the procedure, and Judy said, "Of course."
 
 
Blake had not seen our cast room before and was in awe. She was impressed with the shelves full of casting tape, braces, and splints. The centerpieces of the room, the traction frame and dental chair, raised many questions. Joel explained how the traction frame is used while he gathered the tools and supplies for the job at hand as Judy climbed into the dental chair. The exam light was turned on, and the chair reclined. Joel got to work in Judy's mouth, tightening her wires and adding a few more. Judy winced a few times as the wires were twisted tight, but soon the job was done, and she said, "Thanks, Joel. Everything feels so tight now; I can't move my jaw even a fraction of an inch. It hurts to get everything pulled so tight, but the complete immobilization feels heavenly. Thanks, Joel, this is great!"
 
 
Judy then got up from the chair and hugged Joel, then crutched over to me and gave me a big hug, too. Blake had just stood there in silence and watched the procedure with a smile. I know she would like to experience the same thing; maybe someday, after we get to know each other better, I'll ask. But now it was time for me to get my wires and splint removed. Joel picked me up out of my wheelchair, placed me in the dental chair, and reclined it. He quickly cut the wires free from my surgical hooks and removed the splint from my mouth. Even after only a few days immobilized, my jaw was very stiff after wearing such a large splint. I warned Judy that she would have quite a bit of rehab to do after six weeks like this.
 
 
With Judy's wires tightened and mine removed, we went to eat breakfast. Paul had finished cooking the eggs, potatoes, and sausage while Jimmy made Judy a protein shake. We enjoyed our meal, and then Pete helped Emme remove her contacts since she had to go to work today. As we all said our goodbyes for the morning, Blake spoke up and said, "Those fresh casts you're wearing are in dire need of some decorating. How about you all come over to my place this evening for a girls night, and I'll do some artwork on your casts and cook you dinner? I even have something in mind that you'll enjoy eating with your syringe, Judy." With our afternoon and evening plans made, everyone was on their way, except for Blake; she wanted to spend some time with me this morning.
 
 
B: Leigh, can we go check out some of the things in your cast room? I have some questions about some of the things I saw.
 
 
L: Sure, Blake, let's go. You can even try on any of the braces we have, and if you like something, you can even take it home with you. I have a feeling we have a lot in common.
 
 
B: That would be super cool, Leigh!
 
 
As I wheeled to the cast room, with Blake following, she said,
 
 
B: When you say 'a lot in common' Leigh, do you mean liking to wear casts?
 
 
L: Yes, that is what I meant, dear. I hope I didn't touch a raw nerve.
 
 
B: Oh, no, you didn't, Leigh. I really loved wearing my casts and all the attention I got. They helped to take my mind off my braces and headgear, which in only a few short weeks I have grown to love.
 
 
Blake looked all around the cast room, and I told her about how the traction frame is used. She was curious about the dental chair and the packages of archbars, wires, and Mini-Ties on the shelf next to it. She looked at the hundreds of rolls of fiberglass and the samples of all the colors. Blake then looked into the brace cabinets, carefully examining the myriad of braces we keep on hand for friends. She picks up a package and says,
 
 
B: So, what is this brace called, Leigh? It's so big and looks very restrictive.
 
 
L: That's a SOMI CTLSO. It completely immobilizes your back and neck. That style was the first spinal braces I ever wore recreationally many years ago. Before that, I had only worn a Milwaukee brace when I was young.
 
 
B: Wow! I think I would like to try wearing it, but not right now. I want to go take Gordie for a ride, then get the house ready for this evening.
 
 
We went to the guest room, where Blake grabbed her bags. Then she put on her belt and coat, and I followed her out to the stable to meet Gordie. He's a really sweet horse, and he nuzzled Blake. She brushed and saddled Gordie, secured her bags to the saddle, and mounted her steed. Blake said goodbye, and I told her to go to the back gate, which leads to BLM land behind our property for her ride. She waved at me as she rode off, and I wheeled back to the house.
 
 
A little before four, Collene's car pulled up out front, and she had Emme and Judy with her. We decided that most likely we would end up spending the night at Blake's, so we all went to pack an overnight bag. I called Rebekah and asked her to do the same and join us all for the evening.
 
 
Soon, we were all ready, and Judy said through her splint, "I'll go get the bus and pick up Rebekah." She soon returned with the bus, and Collene operated the lift for me. Once on board, I saw a set of Rebekah's old KAFOs and a well-worn Milwaukee brace sitting on one of the seats and inquired about them. Bekah replied, "Well, Blake and I are about the same size, and I thought she might want to try wearing them. She seems to really have a thing for casts and braces, just like all of us, even Collene, who really needs her braces. It might take a couple of drinks, but I bet she'll be in these braces before the night is out."
 
 
I said, "I'm sure she will be wearing them even without a little liquid courage after the conversation we had this morning; she is actually like us and loves wearing casts. I'm sure she will love your old KAFOs and Milwaukee brace, too." I then called Blake and said we were on our way.
 
 
When we arrived at Blake's, we were warmly welcomed, and she showed us around. Collene remarked, "Billy always said your folks have a wonderful place, and he's right. What a beautiful house in an equally beautiful setting." After our tour, we made ourselves at home by the large fireplace, and Emme went to help Blake bring in our bags.
 
 
Once everything was inside, including Rebekah's old braces, Blake asked about them. Rebekah replied, "Those are my old braces, and I thought you might like to try wearing them. Hopefully you take a size seven shoe, and those old clogs fit you OK." Collene then said, "If any of the braces need to be adjusted to fit perfectly, I can do that for you, Blake. Working in an orthotics shop, I always have my wrench and screwdriver with me.
 
 
"Oh, I do want to wear them and see what it's like to be braced from head to toe," replied Blake. "Let's go to my room and get me into these beautiful braces. What a wonderful surprise; I'm so excited!"
 
 
We followed Blake to her room, where she took off her high-heeled boots, denim shorts, T-shirt, and Bow protraction device. We helped her into Bekah's old braces, and Collene made a few adjustments. Blake then stood up, and Collene made another adjustment to the neck ring of Blake's Milwaukee brace, forcing her to stand straight and tall. The Collie told Blake how to keep her knees unlocked so she could walk easily without crutches. It took a few moments for Blake's body to adjust to the braces. She smiled and said, "This feels so strange, but very good. Even though these shoes don't have much of a heel, I'm standing so tall and my back isn't hurting as much."
 
 
Blake then carefully walked over the full-length mirror and once again spoke, "Look how straight my back is; I'm not slouching like I always do. Let me put on my orthodontic facemask and get dressed, then we can have a glass of wine and make dinner." Blake strapped her reverse-pull headgear around her head, then placed the heavy elastics, tying the device to her braces. Her T-shirt fit just fine over her Milwaukee brace, but her shorts were too tight; she went to borrow a pair from her mom's closet.
 
 
We sat down and talked over a glass of wine, then went to the kitchen to prepare dinner. There was a pot of white bean and ham soup simmering that had been thoroughly blended and strained for Judy. For the rest of us, there were all the ingredients for pizza, with a crust ready for each of us to prepare to our liking. The pizzas were baked in a brick oven, and we all enjoyed dinner and some more wine.
 
 
After our meal, Blake got her paints and proceeded to decorate our plaster casts. She did quite well despite being so immobilized by the braces she was wearing. The conversation was very interesting as Blake worked, and she is just like the rest of us. Soon, our casts were all decorated with outdoor scenes, and they looked wonderful.
 

As the paint dried, we talked more, especially about Blake's orthodontics and her ongoing joint pain issues, and she said, "You know, wearing casts and braces for pleasure and emotional comfort is one thing, but I would hate to have to wear them for real. Wanting to wear a cast or brace is a whole lot different from needing to wear them. I can take them off at any time, and when I was in my casts, Billy gave me a friend's number to call if I wanted them removed. Wearing the braces I have on now would be so difficult if I really needed them, but I love wearing them for fun. I guess if I really needed them, I would have to learn to love them like I do my orthodontic braces, but it would be really hard at first."
 
 
After a bit more wine, we retired for the evening.
 
 
The next morning, when Blake emerged from her bedroom, she was wearing her KAFOs and Milwaukee brace, with her pink reverse pull headgear and a smile on her face.
 

Offline napacaster

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Re: Story: Leigh and Joel
« Reply #59 on: 14. July 2024, 18:26:46 PM »
 Ch. 157 - My Day with Blake
 
 
At least we didn't overdo it last night with the wine; there were no hangovers this morning, and we all arose well rested and refreshed. Blake, who was still wearing Rebekah's old Milwaukee brace and KAFOs, made us berry smoothies with berries from the ranch. She carefully strained them so no seeds got caught in our orthodontic appliances. As we were enjoying them, Blake asked Judy what life was like with her splinted and wired jaw. Judy replied in a voice a bit more clear than a few days ago.
 
 
"It's great, Blake. I am really enjoying my splint and wires, but it was hard for a few days. I really wanted to cut my wires, but I persisted, and I'm glad I did. A long time ago, when I was wearing a Minerva cast and just got my bands on my teeth, Leigh wired me shut for the night with the hooks on my archwires, no splint. I spent a very pleasurable evening alone in my coach; I was living in an RV where our cottage is now. Being wired shut for just one night was really easy, as were the first day or two of being wired shut with my splint."
 
 
"However, I started having muscle spasms that were really painful, and I almost had my wires cut, but Leigh encouraged me to continue my adventure. As you know, my wires stretched, and you saw Joel redoing them for me the other morning. I'm doing great now; no more spasms, and Jimmy and I are really enjoying my splint and wires."
 
 
"Going to work like this has been a real thrill—maybe the highlight of my adventure so far. Everyone asks questions, and I got tons of attention, which I really enjoyed. Everyone has been very kind in trying to understand my garbled speech, but I think it's improved quite a bit. Next week will be extremely exciting; I have to give a presentation to over one hundred people. Not only will I be standing before them in my braces and on crutches, but I will also have to give my presentation with my splint and wires immobilizing my jaw. It will be a real challenge, but I'm really looking forward to it. So Blake, tell us what it's like to wear your Milwaukee brace and KAFOs. You seem to be enjoying them."
 
 
"Oh, I am enjoying my Milwaukee brace and KAFOs, Judy. For years now, I have been having rather bad back pain when I wake up in the morning, then often throughout the day. This morning was the first time in years that my back didn't hurt when I woke up. However, my hips are a bit sore from the brace rubbing, but it's nothing I can't handle. I think I'm a bit thicker than Rebekah in that area. When I stand up, I feel so much taller, and I look straight ahead instead of slightly down like I usually do. I notice this when I wear my Crane; I don't slouch as bad. My KAFOs comfortably support my knees and ankles, too."
 
 
"I'm beginning to think that I might actually need to wear a back brace of some sort at this point in my life. When I was in middle school, we were all checked for scoliosis, and I was given a referral to see a doctor. I tore up the note, never took it home, and ignored my back as I did my teeth. My parents never forced anything upon me, and at least with my teeth, I'm paying the price now with my extensive orthodontic treatment. I think the same might hold true for my back; I really should get it checked out. You all live full and complete lives in your braces, but I don't know if I could. I enjoy wearing these braces for fun, but actually needing to wear them would be really tough; I don't think I could do it. However, I guess I should get my back checked out."
 
 
I reminded Blake that Ben and Jackie are going to be in town in a few days to check on Lori and suggested she have Ben check out her back. Blake thought this was a good idea, but she looked nervous. She then asked if she could meet Lori and Scott since we have talked so much about them. Emme said, "You will just love Scotty and Lori. They are the kindest people in the world, and Lori is so inspirational; she never really let her accident get her down. If you stop by the shop tomorrow, you can meet Scotty. He works with Jimmy while Lori is at PT."
 
 
Collene, Judy, and Emme then needed to get going; they all had to go to work today. I'm going to stay behind and spend a day on the ranch with Blake as she does her chores. As they were all getting on the bus, Collene said, "Dinner at my place tonight; I'll get takeout on my way home. Don't worry, Judy, I'll fix something for you, my weird, wired little sister." We all laughed at Collies comment, and then the girls were off to get ready for work.
 
 
The rest of the morning, I just followed Blake around the ranch in my wheelchair as she did her chores wearing her Milwaukee brace but without her KAFOs; she didn't want to soil Rebekah's shoes. Blake brushed all three horses; Molly is a sweet old mare that foaled Gordie. The other horse is Blackie, a gelding that Blake's mom rides. Blake then put them out on the pasture and cleaned the stable. All her movements were very stiff since she was wearing a Milwaukee brace, but it didn't seem to slow her down any. She had no problem shoveling manure, handling bales of straw, or sacks of feed. It was almost like she had been wearing the brace for years.
 
 
After the chores were done, we went back to the house for lunch. Blake wanted to take a shower, and I volunteered to make something simple for lunch: grilled cheese sandwiches and soup. She helped me get everything to make lunch, then she went to get cleaned up. As she was walking away, she asked me how to clean her Milwaukee brace; it had become quite sweaty from working. I told her what to do and said we all have multiple braces, so they have at least a day between being worn.
 
 
Blake soon appeared, looking very refreshed with her long hair still damp. She was dressed very casually: denim shorts over her KAFOs, a tight-fitting T-shirt under her Milwaukee brace, and of course her reverse-pull headgear. She asked me, "Is this outfit OK for going to dinner at Collene's? She and Judy are always dressed so nice, even when just hanging out and having fun." I said, "You look great, Blake. It's just dinner with close friends—nothing fancy like the other night."
 
 
As we ate our lunch, Blake asked me if she had told her about Stevie, the manager at the retreat, and her brotherly friend, finally getting his braces. She had not, and I wanted to hear all the details.
 
 
"It's a wonderful story, Leigh, more about love than orthodontics. Let me start by telling you about Cyndi. She works for the company that keeps the resort stocked with first-aid and safety supplies. I have known her since I started working at the retreat, and she is a really nice lady. I always noticed there seemed to be a little spark or chemistry between her and Stevie, often exchanging playful looks and making little comments to each other. They are both single, but neither one has ever made a first move."
 
 
"This all changed the day Stevie got his braces. I went along with him, and when we arrived, Cyndi was in the waiting room. She thought that we were there for work on my braces, but Stevie said that he was getting braces today. Cyndi laughed and said she was also getting braces today; she was finally going to get her overbite corrected. Cyndi asked me why I was wearing my two casts, and before I could answer, the assistant then called for both Cyndi and Stevie; it was their time to face the orthodontist, and I followed to sit with Stevie while he got his braces, as he had wished he could have done for me."
 
 
"The clinic has a large treatment room with a row of chairs. Stevie and Cyndi were seated next to each other, and I sat across from them to watch. The orthodontist moved between chairs, giving instructions to the assistants, who, like Sally said, do all the real work. Soon both Stevie and Cyndi had their braces applied, and Stevie got instructions on how to wear his elastics and Cyndi her hot pink cervical headgear. When they got up from the chairs, they looked at me and smiled. I smiled back and said they both looked great. Then they looked dreamily at each other, and then Stevie said, "So Cyndi, do you want to get a bite to eat before our teeth really start hurting? Blake says it gets pretty bad after the first few hours." Cyndi, with a smile, replied, "I would love to, Stevie. I have always wanted to ask you out but never could muster the courage."
 
 
"By the time we were walking back to the parking lot, Stevie and Cyndi were holding hands. Stevie had picked me up earlier, and he said to Cyndi, "Can I ride with you, Cyndi, and let Blake drive herself home in my truck? You can drop me off to get it after dinner." Cyndi replied, "That would be wonderful, Stevie. In fact, you can drive my Grand Wagoneer; I see you eyeing it every time I'm at the lodge." Stevie tossed me his keys, and he and Cyndi were off. I drove home, and when I left for the early shift the next morning, Stevie's old Bronco was still parked in front of my place. When he arrived at work later in the morning, I asked how the previous night went, and he said, "It was wonderful! Everything is wonderful, Blake." It seems the two are now almost inseparable, and I think that Stevie might move in with Cyndi soon. I always knew there was a spark between them, and their braces seemed to fan that spark into an inferno of love."
 
 
After lunch and telling Stevie and Cyndi's happy story, we retreated to the living room to talk. Since we had all been so open and honest with Blake, I wanted to ask her some questions about why she wanted to wear casts and what she enjoyed about wearing the braces that Rebekah gave her.
 
 
L: So Blake, you seem to really enjoy wearing those casts you got at the retreat, as well as Rebekah's old braces you are in now. May I ask a simple, or what seems like a simple question: Why?
 
 
B: I really don't know, Leigh. I just really like how they feel, especially my casts. They were so soft and comforting on the inside and hard and tough on the outside. I also loved all the attention I got from strangers and the looks I got from guys. At night in bed, they just brought me comfort, sort of like sleeping in this Milwaukee brace did for me last night.
 
 
L: I also enjoy the contrast between the inside and outside of a cast. It always amazes me how something so rough and hard is also soft and comforting at the same time. What about your KAFOs, Blake? How do they bring you enjoyment, comfort, or pleasure?
 
 
B: They bring me all three of those feelings, Leigh, and I really can't explain why. Maybe it is the coldness of the steel and the softness of the leather working together to support and limit the motion of my legs. With casts or braces, it's not the immobilization that I enjoy; it's just how they feel on my body. I've never been into bondage or anything like that. In fact, I find the idea repulsive, but for some reason, I just like wearing all these braces, especially the Milwaukee brace; my back doesn't hurt when I wear it, despite it being far from my perfect fit.
 
 
L: That how I always felt about my KAFOs until I decided to let my legs go like Judy did. Now that I really need them, and I have always needed my Milwaukee brace, I feel naked and incomplete without my braces. When I'm taking a bath, I can't wait to put on my braces again and feel complete.
 
 
B: You just said it, Leigh. I feel complete wearing these braces, but I don't know how I would feel about actually needing to wear them. Part of the enjoyment is knowing I can take them off if I want to, like not wearing the KAFOs to clean the stable. I think it would be really hard to actually need to wear braces like these without the option of taking them off at will.

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

 
L - Sounds like a plan, Blake.

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

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