Saturday, March 7, 2009
Good News
We went to Minneapolis for my 6 week return visits to the surgeon (Dr. Perra) and the Physical Therapist (Paul). Both had very encouraging news. Dr. Perra showed us the difference in my new x-rays compared to the x-rays before surgery and it was like they were from two different people. My spine is in the correct alignment (only 1 degree off perfect). So far my body has not produced any new bone but hopefully that will begin soon. I go back to see Dr. Perra in 3 months. He said things are looking great but that it'll be a long process - a year's recovery would be typical - and that I can screw it up if I don't take it slow and do what I'm told I can and cannot do. This surgery is not the end of all my problems but it gives us so much more hope to have better quality of life. Dr. Perra kept quoting the Tortoise and the Hare and said I must consider slower to be better. Paul then was also amazed at how well things were going. He said I was not as short as he thought I was!! He has started me on some very light strengthening and stretching exercises and we will proceed from there if this goes ok. In another week or so, I can start to try walking more again and I can re-try the warm water pool. He emphasized slow, slow, slow and that my body has been through so much (not just this surgery but everything else too) and that if I don't pay attention and only do what I am allowed to do with my back situation, I will screw up what we're starting to accomplish. So I must really work on my own frame of mind. I have always been the doer and I feel that I am lazy when I am not doing everything myself and I must get over that and do what I am able to do and appreciate those things. So I have a long road ahead of me but we are really headed in the right direction and it was so wonderful to hear that for a change. Thanks for the prayers - keep them coming - they really do help. Love, JAN
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Janet, We are so glad you are feeling better and got such a good report from MSP doctors. I'd milk this as long as you can, just to keep John working around the house !! Take care (slowly).
ReplyDeleteJan, You have been in our thoughts and prayers. It is so good to hear how well you are doing. The last time I was at the Air Guard, Joel told me your operation went very well. I hope everything continues to heal and that you get feeling better. Maybe we can get together for a game of cards the next time we are in town. Steve and Gloria
ReplyDeleteWe are glad to hear the good news. We will continue to pray for you & John. Mona said just remember how long you have been down when you get discouraged about the recovery time needed.
ReplyDeleteI remembered to check the Blog to see how you are. Am not sure my other post went through. I will be in SF on May 1 and will plan to see you if you are up to it. I can bring a picnic!! Love to all of you.
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