ON THE MEND

"One day at a time, one step at a time." ~Lynda Boucher

Three weeks ago today, I got a new right knee. I've had three weeks of healing, recovery, and therapy. My Orthopedic surgeon, along with my sister and several friends who've been down this road, told me the first few weeks would not be a lot of fun, but it does get better. I've kept my sights on their promises.

A few hours after surgery and recovery, I was up and walking in a hospital gown. Using a walker, flanked by two Physical Therapy staff people, and my husband right behind protecting my modesty, it was one step at a time. The PT staff impressed that getting up and moving is key to recovery. So I took another hallway stroll before bed when a nurse was available to walk with me.

The next day, I was awakened dark and early at 5:30. I dressed myself and prepared for the day. My surgeon arrived by 7:15. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, I'd be discharged later. More vitals, more blood draws, and then finally breakfast. Physical Therapy was scheduled for 9:00am. After my husband/coach arrived by 8:15, a Physical Therapist had me grab the walker for another stroll. We went to the PT room to learn how to do stairs and get into a car. Then back to my room until the other patients' coaches arrived for our group therapy session.

Nurses, a Nurse Navigator, a Home Health Care representative, lunch, instructions, etc., and we were finally able to leave. The wheelchair ride to the car was uneventful. The transition to the car was more challenging than the simulation in the PT room. The ride to our pharmacy and the drive home was uncomfortable to say the least. I learned later that's normal.

I've had in-home Physical Therapy, along with visits from Home Health Care RNs. This week I begin out-patient Physical Therapy. I was cleared to do stairs alone last week. Such a feeling of liberation!

Everyone was right. It does get better. And I'm anticipating a lot better!