As I am getting stronger, I am also beginning to desire to move around more. Yesterday, I tried being up for longer periods of time, so that I could aimlessly wander around the house.
Because my knee replacement is a bit different than a traditional one, I am more restricted at the rate at which I can work on getting functional range of motion. As a result my exercises are very limited and I am not to work in a place that causes too much pain. Since the surgery removed my ligaments, part of my thigh muscle and a bit of a hamstring on outer side of the knee I have to respect the healing of the internal surgical work so it will all eventually function together to allow me to walk normally again.
The really fun part is the rigid brace I must strap on any time that I will be weight bearing. The brace goes from the very top of my leg to my ankle and it is tightened by Velro straps. No matter how well I believe that I have tightened it, the sucker always ends up sliding down so it can gouge into my ankle bone and Achilles tendon. When I sit down ( left leg held in a straight position ) the back of the brace digs into the very back of my upper thigh because all of the structural boning, which is rigid plastic, can only dig into me not meld with me!
I have been able to figure out a way to sit with my leg resting on a chair so Paul and I can have dinner in our dining room. It is by far the most civilized time of my day. Paul makes the table pretty with lots of candles. We eat fabulous food, thanks to the amazing generosity of so many friends, drink wine and talk. It is our own private little romantic restaurant.
I read a quote that basically promotes starting a new religion with one commandment, "Enjoy thyself."
On this challenging journey to return to health and wholeness I will try very hard to follow this commandment!
Paul is an absolute angel and you are so extremely fortunate to be so loved and chesished!! Kathy, can you try moleskin at the top of the brace to help cushion where it cuts into your skin. I was waiting for you to also to mention that it was cutting and rubbing into something else being to delicate to mention. There is another commandment that you need to follow also - "Heal Thyself" Whether from within or from outside, you must take the time to "heal." xoxo
ReplyDeletedear, sweet, lovable kathy. when i dragged my lazy ass into pilates saturday i was so very upset to hear about what you have been going thru. my first question was: why does this stuff always happen to the good (great) people? no writing can describe the real inner fear and pain you have been experiencing but your attitude will get you thru this LAST ordeal for sure. your husband sounds like an incredible--no--make that IS an incredible man and how blessed you are to have that angel by your side. take time to heal and feel the love enveloping you from afar by sooooooo many people who care. God Bless. Chris Buckley-Currie
ReplyDeleteI was happy to read this entry. Kathy, you are turning everything around with your positive attitude! That is so great!! I like your restaurant at home image. Might have to learn from you! Stay positive & strong! Sending you love & prayers!
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