In the middle of the bridge

[drlj]

Many years ago a doctor told me that one day I would have severe problems with my ankle.
I told him I would cross that bridge when I came to it.
Well, I am in the middle of the bridge trying to hobble across.

My appointment with the orthopedic specialist was long today and I seem to have run out of options.
I have an appointment for an ankle CT scan next week and another appointment the week after to discuss plans for ankle fusion surgery.
He said it would be a 2 & 1/2 hour surgery.
I have been told there will be a 2 to 2 1/2 month recover time with a cast for 6 weeks and a boot for two weeks with no weight on the ankle. After that, a boot with limited weight working up to full weight which would amount to another 2-3 weeks.

Because of schedules & plans, this wouldn’t take place until March of next year which would mean I would be looking at being fully recovered by early summer.
It’s not what I hoped to hear, but not unexpected, either.

I was at the doctor office for 3 hours today for exam, x-rays, and consultation.

Then, the best part, is we went to Giuseppe’s for an early dinner.

Long day. I am tired right now.

[Cosmic Wonder]

Sigh. Damn I wish you didn’t have to go through this. All the best, LJ.

Mike

[Village Idiot]

You've been dealing with this for years, LJ. It's a lot easier for me to say than for you to go through it, but wouldn't it be great if what they are telling you is a solution. I know you're tired of hobbling around.

[Dub]

Very sorry to hear this, LJ. I know this means nine or ten more months of misery. We are wishing the best for you and Barb and hope, in the end, you regain your mobility.

[millring]

Best of luck.

[drlj]

Thanks, everyone.
It’s a lot to ponder. There is no easy route, but, then, life goes that way sometimes.

[John B]

Sounds like part of your recovery plan could be for some folks within driving distance to drop by with lunch or dinner and wait on you hand and foot. Like, "go fetch me that guitar... no not that one, the other one... no, the fancy one..."

[PaulKay]

Sorry about your situation LJ, but at least there is a medical path forward.

[Marshall]

Certainly hope it works out well for you. This getting old is tough stuff.

[drlj]

Yeah, it’s the time after the surgery that has me most concerned—the recovery time when I will be somewhat helpless to do just about anything. It’s a bit scary to me.

[dradtke]

Sept 15, 2023 8:14:28 GMT -5 John B said:

Sounds like part of your recovery plan could be for some folks within driving distance to drop by with lunch or dinner and wait on you hand and foot. Like, "go fetch me that guitar... no not that one, the other one... no, the fancy one..."

Don't forget the cookies.

[david]

Sounds like a pain in the ass, but you will get through this and be happier afterward. Sympathy and best wishes to you, LJ.

[Tamarack]

Hoping the rest of the bridge is an easy downhill hobble, and you will be dancing at IdiotJam next year.

I really like the idea of having someone (other than Barb) handing you guitars and refreshments whilst recovering.

[Cornflake]

I'm also sorry to hear this. The long recovery sounds daunting. Having been homebound for six months this year, though, I can testify that it passes more quickly than you might think.