What’s a Joint Like You Doing in a Nice Girl Like Me?

I saw the ortho doctor this morning. That’s why this is late. I know I need to get a right knee replacement, but didn’t know just how soon I needed it. Pain-wise, I need it now, but $$$ is a huge consideration.

Good news is that even though I’m “at the end of the road” with the arthritis, it’s not urgent. Sooner is better than later, so there isn’t too much more damage done, but I can certainly wait for a while. I did NOT want to be recovering from surgery while Lia was here at Christmas.

When I had my left knee replaced 12 years ago, it was a real shock at how much pain was there in the recovery. I had never experienced pain like that in my life. And I did natural birth with two breech babies!! I had never cried so much from pain. Emotion, yes. Pain, no. I’m a pretty tough gal as far as that goes.

All in all, I am truly dreading getting this one done. Not only will I have the same type pain in recovery, I will be pretty much alone. Paul was still here 12 years ago, and was a tremendous help. I know I have friends I can count on, but I’ve still got enough of that stubborn pride thing going on. I did have a couple friends come in the first couple of days to get me breakfast, but Paul was the one who emptied the bedside commode. He was the one on the floor helping me with the PT.

The biggest concern I have is that I won’t be able to safely drive for some time. It was no problem when I had the left knee done, because I only used the right foot for driving. But I’m going to try to NOT anticipate trouble before I have to. I know I have at least until after Christmas. And I got a shot today that is really helping. Don’t know how long it will last me, but right now I’m doing OK.

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”  Matthew 6:34