Literally moving forward

I wrote last time about the phone call from our physio therapist inviting Layla to Power Mobility Day. Both Aaron and I thought there was no way Layla would be able to move a power chair on her own. At the weekly physio appointments I continued to discuss what it would be like. My hopes weren't high for anything exciting. The only thing that started to intrigue me was this really old sensory toy we were loaned. It has a string with a wooden ball at the end. When you pull it there is a fan that starts blowing at you (cause and effect). Again, this was a toy that I didn't believe we would use very often, if at all. But once I wrapped Layla's hands around the string I quickly saw she was able to pull on it to get the fan going. This sprung a big smile as the wind blew on her face. Then she would release a bit, and do it again! Pretty amazing. Not after long her hand would slip off but we would still cheer her on as she's completed a little milestone. 

Fast forward to this past week. To my surprise we got to experience the most incredible thing with her development so far. Layla moving herself, on her own. Well with the help of the cutest power wheelchairs you've ever seen. The first chair we were able to fit in her custom seat from her stroller so she was completely comfortable and supported. We placed her hand on the joystick and pushed it forward so she could get the idea. Almost right away she was able to pull it to the side and start moving, ON HER OWN. *Que the waterworks* She started by mostly doing circles. Then there were quite a few jerks but changes in direction and speed. To me that shows it wasn't just by chance. We didn't just help her start going and then the weight of her hand just sat there, continuing to move her in that direction. No, she was working hard. You could see it in her face and jaw. (She often clenches her jaw when she is trying hard.) She got a chance to try three different chairs. 
Everyone was in awe. I don't think anyone in the room thought Layla would be able to do what she did. It was little but oh so big. Now we feel like we have to get one. She needs this! Unfortunately these wonderful contraptions are only available in the UK and are unable to even be shipped to Canada. Boo. But either way this is such a positive thing to know that she is capable! It makes me realize how important it is for Layla to have the opportunity to have some independence to help with her development. There are very few things she can be independent in but a power wheelchair could be one of them.
I don't really know where to go from here but I'm starting the research. Is the government able to fund some or all of a power wheelchair for Layla? What are the options in the area? Can we possibly find a used chair? Should we fundraise ourselves? Many questions to be answered. One thing is forsure, Layla is going places. Literally.