In episode four, Ruby and the crew arrive in Los Angeles for their one month vacation with Ben.
The first thing they do is go to the water park, Raging Waters. The visit starts out a bit rocky as Ruby has trouble fitting into (and getting out of) a raft. “It was very frustrating for me that I can’t get into the rafts by myself,” she said. “But at least I participated.”
Determined to prove herself, Ruby decides to take on the biggest ride at the park, a water slide at the top of nearly 150 steps. She reaches the top but is hesitant to slide down, afraid that she will hurt herself. Conquering her fears, Ruby slides down The High Extreme and afterwards exclaims, “It was the best ride of my life!”
Drew and Shazi hook Ruby up with PJ, a Los Angeles-based trainer. At their first meeting PJ says, “My first impression of Ruby was outgoing… how can I contain this into a training session?”
Ruby meets with her good friend, Melissa, who encourages Ruby to be honest with herself. She suggests alternative therapies, such as reiki and acupuncture, to help Ruby facilitate healing. Ruby agrees to reiki, despite her apprehension.
Gabriela, the reiki healer, begins the session by explaining what reiki is. Ruby immediately notices a sensation from the healer’s hands. The intensity mounts as Gabriela continues to work. Ruby feels as though she is suffocating and cries from the emotional pain. She says, “I really didn’t think I could feel that much pain.” She says that she definitely believes in the opening and healing power of reiki.
Towards the end of the episode, Ruby takes her first swimming lesson. Although she knows how to float, Ruby is afraid to put her head under the water. With the encouragement of her friends and swim instructor, Ruby swims from one end of the pool to the other. All is well until the swim instructor brings Ruby to the deep end. “I was angry,” says Ruby. “I’m afraid of the deep end still, but at least I’m secure in the shallow end of the pool.”
Episode four was not only full of firsts, but it showcased Ruby’s determination perfectly.
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