Riley is now home for potentially 12 weeks depending on how things go at Olympic Trials in June here in Victoria. If he is successful, his next travel will be to Beijing at the end of July to prepare for his event to be held August 22nd. If not, he will have to head to Thunder Bay early July for the Junior Nationals in order to qualify for the World Junior Championships to be held in Germany mid September. Of course all fingers are crossed for a free ride to Germany (as part of the exemption offered to Olympic athletes) and a longer stay at home to rest and train.
I mention all this as its been quite some time he's had this long a stint and home and it has given me a chance to get back into Mom gear. For example, this week I met with his school to get all the assignments he is missing in order to compete Grade 11. I also attempted a study weekend with Riley to help him complete his Biology which he started last September. Wow! Its been a long time since Grade 11 Biology. After one session we agreed he would go back to his school teacher for help haha. I've been booking appointments like the dentist and today, we went to get his skills licences for his scooter! (thanks for your help Nigel!).
After the skills test (which he passed with flying colours!!!!), we went to UVic and he was tested for asthma. Any Olympic athlete who has exhibited any symptoms is undergoing significant testing due to the possible poor air quality in Beijing. If there are existing issues, they can ask for an exemption in advance that will allow them to take medication if required. If this testing and exemption request is not done in advance and an attack takes place, they can not be medicated.
Riley has always had some breathing challenges and asthma does run in the family. Thank goodness diving is not an aerobic sport! His tester identified some anomalies in his breathing but fortunately, he did not identify as an asthmatic. We will continue to explore what his issues are but we are secure in the knowledge that he will be fine (as fine as you can be in that air) in Beijing. And of course the pool is indoors which is good.
I've also helped with forms, phones, Aeroplan missing points and providing unsolicited advice on a myriad of other things. Its good to be a needed mom again. Even for a short time!
Saturday we are off to Surrey Zellers to take part in the HBC Service Day. Stay tuned!
1 comment:
I know what you mean - it's always good to be a needed Mom. The best part is that no matter where Riley is and what he is doing, he knows that you are always there when and if he needs you. And that back of the mind comfort and love is a constant need!
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