- If I knew beforehand just how much blood I would lose and how anemic I'd become, I would have prepared a unit or two of my own blood for a transfusion. That was one of the most debilitating things about my recovery.
- In the hospital and at home, I walked barefoot always. (All my PT's agreed on this point.) But for going out walking, get elasticized shoelaces (for triathelon runners). They were the smartest thing I got. In fact, I'd recommend this to just about anyone who can't bend over.
- The raised mattress and toilet seat were a must. I like them so much, I think I may keep them like this.
- Use the medication wisely. Taper off the pain killers gradually (In hindsight, I think some of my white nights were actually due to stopping (i.e. withdrawal) the Tramadol all at once). Take sleeping pills if you need to, in order to get as much sleep as you need. But get off the meds are quickly as possible.
- I saw this as a project and I was determined to walk and exercise as much as possible. So it was depressing and disheartening when I just couldn't do that. As I've said, you never know when you've done too much, until it's too late. It's important to find a balance between pushing yourself and not overdoing it. Walk as much as possible and exercise as long as you have no pain. But try to do a little bit more every day.
- Comply with the restrictions, no matter how tempting it is to start doing things early. The last thing you want is a set-back or dislocation. Have patience. When I stopped
obsessingthinking about and anticipating certain goals, I often found I could do them when I came back to them in time. - My most invaluable tip of all would have to be - get a Bear! And by that, I mean ensure that you have a really good support system of people around to help you do the little every day things (cook, clean etc) so that you can focus on recovery.
- Lastly, be good to yourself!
(Day 1: immobile )
(Day 90: after 3 km walk)
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