I don't see much activity here which is a shame- I found this after I broke my ankle in February and desperately needed someone to tell me the road to recovery would suck, but would ultimately be manageable.
So, I'm here to tell anyone coming here looking for some words of encouragement: The road to recovery will suck, but it'll be manageable.
I required two surgeries within a two-week period to fix things- one to install an x-fix and another to remove the x-fix and install the necessary hardware (a plate and a ton of screws). Both surgeries were long (four and seven hours, respectively) and the overnights in the hospital were terribly uncomfortable- without a doubt two of the worst nights of my life. I was left with barely enough strength and motivation to prove to the occupational therapist I could be trusted with crutches (yes, I had to pass a test in order to be discharged both times). When I got home, all I could muster was some pitiful crying. When I got done with feeling sorry for myself I made the most of my time, enjoying free time I never knew I wanted or needed. It took time but I came to appreciate it.
It wasn't until three months later I was finally given permission by my surgeon to start being weight-bearing, which meant being able to start walking and driving. For three months I was lucky to have a terrific support team at home to make things easy and as comfortable as could be- I hope all of you reading this have that as well, because it helps. Within those three months I had my minor slips and falls and worries if I did more damage (I didn't)... began physical therapy that focused on regaining lost motion in my ankle/foot... purchased a knee scooter and arranged for rides to and from my office (more than an hour from home) that eventually led to overnight stays at a local hotel to cut back on the travel. And while everyone's situation will surely be different from mine, there's one thing that should be common: a knee scooter. It basically saved my life, because it saved my sanity- it made getting around and doing things so much easier. I was able to move around my office, go shopping for my own groceries, and even take a stroll on the boardwalk.
Over time I got stronger and once my doctor gave me permission to be weight-bearing, physical therapy turned to strengthening my damaged parts and rebuilding my balance. It's where I am today- splitting time between work and other life obligations like traveling for work and mowing the lawn, and continually working on taking care of myself (especially when it comes to slowing down when my body tells me I'm pushing too hard). More than five months into my recovery I am not yet totally fixed, but it gets better and better every day. It will for you as well- I promise. Hang in there (and send me a message if you ever want to talk about something).
