I'm Back into Civilization

Message 661 of 1864

Saturday....as of this afternoon, I am back into the real world and staying with friends for a few days before going home to the pups. Each time that Joel and I talked, he told me that there would be a big surprise for me when I was able to get back on the computer....and there was. I was so overwhelmed by the kindness and friendship that you all expressed in in your posts. Joel, I want to thank you for calling and posting my progress in the "The Chris Report". I want sincerely thank and tell all my "Lab' family that your thoughts, prayers and support have helped me to get through this.

Okay, I do admit that I must have sounded a bit "spacey" , my typing didn't make sense and that after the epidural wore off, I did have pain.....the drugs were good as long as I received them on time.. A few times the pain did get ahead of me....The doctor cut back on the pain meds on Thursday and the last 2 nights have been rough. Today is better.

The hospital stay was no problem at all....I had a private room complete with a sofa bed and complimentary meals if I had someone in the family or a friend to stay with me., concierge service and food available 24 hours a day.

Then the tides turned when I went to the rehab facility at a Skilled Nursing Facility....you know that "lights out at 6PM" geriatric setting. Fortunately, I had a great roommate. This experience has given me a totally different view pint of life at a NH. I am a bit gutsy and gave the staff and administration a good run for their money. I'm sure that they were as glad to see me discharged as I was to be out of there. My sense of humor is dry and sarcastic. My intent was to point out errors with meds and treatments that others might be either afraid or unable to voice.

The real work ahead of me starts this week with outpatient rehab....several months at least.

I have missed Bailey and Zoey so much....They will be home next Sunday.

With my sincere thanks and appreciation to everyone...I missed you all.
Chris

posted by chris9346

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Hi Chris!! It's so great to have you back! What an ordeal, and it's not over yet. Hang in there. The reward is worth the wait! I'm sure you have really missed your pups. I know I would! Bailey and Zoey are probably very confused and missing you too! Glad you are on the road to recovery. I'm glad you voiced your concerns and opinions at the NH, too! I've been to so many, with Lacey and am appauled at what I see and hear. I have given them some words of wisdom, too! It's so sad. Especially with those that do not have family members to speak or fight for their rights and care! Go get 'em, Chris!!
We missed you, too!
Julie, Emma and Lacey

posted by lablover8
over 2 years ago

YAY! I hope you have a plan as to dealing two very very happy Labradors upon your return. They will probably only go nuts for an hour or so, will you have someone to run interference? I am sure being with them again will give you that final kick and have you dancing in no time. Great to read from you!

posted by mtndona
over 2 years ago

Hi Donna....getting the excited pups back has been a big concern. Heather, their dog sitter, will cook T-day dinner at my house. We plan to introduce Bailey and Zoey back in the house slowly...short periods of time several times a day until Sunday. She is really good with them and they behave well for her. A couple of neighbors will help me by walking them and taking them to the park. They are going to be super frisky and want to sleep with me. I plan to get a walker so I can at least keep my leg protected while I am with them in the house. Then there will be the issue of where everyone will sleep...Bailey is usually at the end of the bed and Zoey crawls under the cover next to me on my right side. They may have to sleep in the crate for a while. It will all workout in the long run. Thank for your thoughts...

Chris

posted by chris9346
over 2 years ago

Chris,
It is great to have you back. Just keep up with the rehab and all will be well.
Best of luck.

Joel

posted by sailor1845
over 2 years ago

Chris, I vote that they sleep in the crate for awhile. The trade off is that you are home. If they are used to the crate, aah no big deal. You take care of you. They'll be back on the bed in no time!

posted by mtndona
over 2 years ago

Chris!!! So good to see you back!!! Joel has been so good in keeping us posted on your progress. I know others who have had knee surgery and it is not an easy recuperation. Lots of physical therapy. Have you tried warm water therapy? I think the water is around 88 degrees in the pool, the air around 90-92. I have found that helpful in some of the therapy that I have had for different reasons. The warm water helps the muscles relax while the water serves as a buoyancy to help get the legs or arms through the motion.

I bet your babies miss you so much, and you them. Be careful getting back into your new routine while you heal. I think too, as long as your babies are used to the crate, they would prefer that just to have you there. You are right, it will all work out.

Good to have you back, girl!

Jean, Gracie and Dixie

posted by Maggie85
over 2 years ago

No, I havent' been given the okay to use heat or water therapy yet...just ice, rest and mild exercises. Hopefully, the stifches are coming out tomorrow when I see the surgeon. Outpatient PT starts on Wednesday. My knee is feels very stiff....at least I thought...then I realized it may be numbness that I am confusing with stiffness. I miss Bailey and Zoey so much and can't wait for our life to become normal again. Let you know what happens tomorrow.

posted by chris9346
over 2 years ago

The doctor gave me good news. My progress is right where it should be for 2 weeks after surgery. I'.. ready for PT, driving and swimming in a pool. He told me that the stitches are in the inside and will dissolve soon. Another thing to be thankful for.....

Have a great Thanksgiving
Chris

posted by chris9346
over 2 years ago

Congratulations Chris,
It's good to hear that you are on the mend. This will just take time so be patient and follow the doctors orders. You'll be back to a normal life is short order. Have a great Thanksgiving.

Delilah & Joel

posted by sailor1845
over 2 years ago

Chris,
WE heard that Bailey and Zoey tied a yellow ribbon around the old oak tree for you.

News flash: Correction, a hundred yellow ribbons around that old oak tree. I guess they really missed you!

Enjoy your next few days.

Delilah

posted by sailor1845
over 2 years ago

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