Good morning everyone !!!
It has been almost 2 months since I have written a blog entry. I have been very busy with surgery, rehab, more surgery, PT, OT, Drs appts, etc. In April suddenly I (out of nowhere) felt intense pain in my left hip area....went to Suburban, X-rays, ct scan, the ER docs said they didn't see anything .
The next day I called the doc who did my hip replacement 5 years ago and he saw lots of problems...like loose screws (not in my head....my hip!!!) and scheduled surgery. Had the surgery, went to rehab (all at Sibley) continued to have pain which progressably got worse. Tried several interventions (injections) and finally Doc said more surgery to see what the f---- was still causing such intense pain. (opioids only made a dent in relieving pain.)
So another week in the hospital post surgery, Doc said all metal bits removed, and now we just wait for healing to start. Left the hospital with lots of prescriptions, and post op directions. Healing could take weeks, months, ????
Found a pain doc (nearby), a great physical therapist (who I have seen many times before)
got a very competent in home caregiver........
I now have 4 walkers ( on each floor and 1 in the car) 4 canes, and 1 wheelchair. Diapers, grabbers, and a wonderful reclining chair. Every bathroom is equipped with what I need.
Surgery doc says another few weeks for walkers and then I can switch to cane and put more weight on my left leg/hip. (I can walk without the walker but don't tell anyone)
AND Heres what I've learned from this whole experience......
1. Just because I fall and it looks like there is no injury (except bruises) it could be internal.
2. There are many many caring and thoughtful people in my life.
3. I can still move small objects (books, pencils, pill bottles) and pretend its furniture.
4. PD still affects movements and mood.( I thought that PD would give me a break.)
5. The loss of independence is staggering ....no driving, needing help with dressing, showering, stairs, cat care......just regular daily stuff.
6. The world is in far worse shape than I am. (thanks Donald)
7. I can sink very very low in TV program watching....Joey Bishop, Father Know Best, Wyatt Earp (actually enjoy some of them)
8. I can watch 5 episodes of Law and Order in a row and not get bored.
9. I still want to pick up sticks and pull weeds.
10. Remember all the positives in my life and get past the rest.
See ya soon.
Whatever.
