I’d Make a Terrible Drug Addict

Thank you all for the love and support you have shown to me and the team since my accident. I am doing remarkably well and getting a lot of rest, which is what I still need most. My stitches are out and I have a tender, but well healed, five-inch scar on my spine. I am feeling generally introspective and peaceful while I’m healing, except during physical therapy. My physical therapist tortures me twice a week. I always feel better afterward and the exercises he gives me are helping me to be both stronger and more flexible. But it’s probably the most painful part of my recovery.

I am happy to report that I have retired my walker and I’m getting around very well. I try to take short walks and do my exercises twice a day. I can make it to the end of my street and back now. Today, I even rode the recumbent bike for 15 minutes at physical therapy. But, I can’t quite reach the floor. If something lands on the floor, it’s dead to me.

I am also completely off of pain medication. I would be a terrible drug addict. I couldn’t wait to get off that crap. It made me feel spacey and had unpleasant side effects that are worse than pain to me. I find that pain is a lot more honest and gives me a lot of information and forces me to rest. My doctor has me on Tylenol for any discomfort I’m feeling.

The days are up and down. Some days I wake up feeling strong and able to push myself. Other days, I hurt from the time I wake up until the time I go back to bed at night. I’m about one for one on good days and bad days right now. I think it’s because I push too hard on my good days. I’m working on limiting my activity on my good days and making sure I get enough rest. I just resurrected my Misfit Shine, which is like a FitBit, only more stylish. It’s helping me track my steps and my sleep and have better data to help with my recovery.

I have a very funny girl problem: shoes. I have athletic shoes, flip flops and heels. I didn’t have one pair of “practical” shoes that aren’t sneakers and I don’t really want to wear sneakers to church and with my dresses (which are more comfortable than pants). So, my mom took me shoe shopping. I bought a pair of flats and a pair Mary Janes that should get me through until I can start wearing heels again. I told my physical therapist that “ridiculous shoes” are kind of important to me. He rolled his eyes at me and said, “You’re such a girl.” I said, “Yes. I’m glad we have established that. Can you help me get back into sexy shoes?” He said, “I’m sure we can figure it out.” Stay tuned for pictures of me back in wedges, platforms, boots, and stilettos.

For now, here’s a picture of me in my new black flats out on my walk.

Thank you, again, for all your love and support and for your patience with me while I heal. You have all been so amazing!

Love,
Carrie