Ah, recovery. It’s a word that conjures up images of cozy blankets, endless cups of tea, and the gentle sound of birds chirping outside your window. But let me tell you, my journey into recovery has been anything but serene. In fact, it’s been more of a roller coaster ride through a storm, with a few unexpected twists and turns along the way. Buckle up, dear readers; it’s time to share my latest adventures in recovery, the hard way.
Friday: A Tornado of Information
It all kicked off on Friday morning when the visiting nurse arrived to help me devise an emergency plan. Yes, you read that right—an emergency plan for tornadoes and similar disasters. I mean, can you imagine? “Excuse me, but where would you like to go when the sky turns green and the wind starts howling?” I had to pause for a moment, wondering if I should be more concerned about the tornado or the fact that my insurance had denied my request for a home health aide. Really? I’m non-weight bearing on both feet for six weeks, and they think I can manage on my own?
But fear not! My husband, ever the resourceful one, is reaching out to a healthcare advocate he knows. Fingers crossed that they can help me navigate this maze of bureaucracy. Meanwhile, I was told someone would be in touch to schedule physical and occupational therapy. Because nothing screams “fun” like a calendar full of therapy appointments!
Saturday: Welcome, Albus!
The next day was a little brighter, as we had our home visit with Albus, our new puppy friend. He fit in immediately, acting like he owned the place, and honestly, he probably will soon enough. Finnegan approved, and after some delightful chatting with the rescue’s owner, we gave the green light to welcome Albus into our family.
With my husband and Kim needing a break, they whisked Albus off to Choice Pets to find a cat harness—because apparently, extra small is too big for a three-pound dog. Meanwhile, my stepson, Jared, came upstairs to supervise me. The irony was not lost on me that I was now being supervised by someone I used to supervise. How the tables have turned!
To top it all off, I received a call from physical therapy, and they were scheduled to come out the next morning. More people to add to my ever-growing support team!
Sunday: The Hard Truth
Sunday started off with a glimmer of hope. The physical therapist arrived and introduced me to leg lifts—10 reps per hour on each leg. I was ready to conquer the world! But as the day progressed, reality set in. Kim had to leave, and while I knew it was time for her to head home, her absence would present new challenges, despite everything she did to make sure we were all set. Still, everything I attempted that day was a Herculean effort.
Frustration bubbled up, and my once-shiny optimism cracked. I felt like I was trying to climb a mountain in flip-flops. However, I had to remind myself that this was just part of the journey, and I wasn’t alone in this uphill battle.
Monday: Gratitude Over Challenges
And then there was Monday—another day of challenges, but this time I decided to focus on gratitude instead of dwelling on the difficulties. It’s amazing how a little perspective can shift your mindset!
First off, Kim’s invaluable gift of time and experience helped me get settled in. My other mother-in-law, Janet, sent me some fabulous wheelchair accessories and even color-coordinated a blanket for me to match my living room. Talk about style! Aunt Dori stocked me up with my favorite peanut butter from Cape May Peanut Butter Company—because who doesn’t need a little comfort food during recovery?
My lovely neighbor, Samantha, checked in on me and helped with the pups, while her husband, Andy, built my ramp, giving me a true way to come home. My wonderful coworkers sent me a delightful post-op recovery kit, complete with a bell that I absolutely adore (even if Dave tries to hide it… lol). And let’s not forget Uncle Jim and Aunt Margaret, who brightened my day with beautiful flowers.
Finally, there’s Jared, who stepped up to help however he could, and my incredible husband, Dave, who has taken on the role of my personal superhero. He made sure I could come home instead of going to rehab and has been tackling everything on my to-do list since I returned. Honestly, I don’t know how I would navigate this journey without him.
The Road Ahead
So here I am, navigating recovery the hard way, but surrounded by a fantastic support system that makes the challenges a little easier to bear. Each day presents its own set of hurdles, but with a bit of wit, a sprinkle of gratitude, and a whole lot of love, I’m determined to keep moving forward.
Stay tuned for more updates from my recovery journey, and remember: sometimes the hard way is the only way, but it can lead to unexpected joys and connections along the way. Until next time!