Today it has been 17 days since I came home from the hospital. How is that even possible? To mark this milestone, a lunch date was arranged with my wise counselor Marti Huff and her co-counselors who specialize in laughter and distraction therapy. Oh how wonderful to be out in the world carrying on like a regular person, granted with the aid of a trusty cane.
Marti reminded me of what her mom used to tell her ,"everyday, in every way, I am getting better and better", which is a helpful mantra as one starts to second guess themselves regarding the speed of their recovery. There was also discussion about reminding ourselves in the middle of the night, when all things can seem like more than they are, that... "this too shall pass". When you have a counselor who is 99, and has lived through all the things that life has thrown at her, and is thriving, you feel great comfort in her wisdom. I sure do.
We toasted ourselves with a glass of wine, discussed potential future outings, and enjoyed sweet potato wedges, Brussels sprouts, a lyonnaise salad, lentil and sweet potato Shepards pie, and an earl grey creme brûlée.
The scheduling of outings is as important as solving 5th grade math problems when one considers the cognitive and emotional aspects of recovery from surgery.
So nice to see you out and about! I love your posts about Marti Huff. What a gift to have her friendship! I had a tough night last night so could really relate to your comments about what happens at night. We are both healing from a really big deal, and we will both get there…day by day. Wishing you more and more healing!
Posted by: Chris Oliveira | 03/12/2023 at 08:15 AM
Laughter and distraction therapy! Perfectly said! I’m so glad you got out with your buddies and had fun, and that you are strong enough to be carousing!
Posted by: Diane Perin | 03/12/2023 at 10:35 AM
Carol, I had a knee replaced about 10 + years ago and I was so fortunate to have two weeks in a rehab via Medicare. They worked us so hard with our exercises I (and most every one else) cried nearly every day but...I got through most of the pain in that time. They did say not to look for 'full' recovery for 6 weeks. I laughed! but while the increments were often not noticeable, they were right. It was pretty much on the mark that I suddenly realized I wasn't thinking of that knee anymore. I was just walking! Bless Marti and your other peeps for being there for you! outings are special.
Posted by: Maureen | 03/14/2023 at 08:39 AM