At last... Some freedom

Good news from my physiotherapist today. I can start to put weight on my left foot!

Now of course this doesn't mean I can go around running marathons or anything, but I can move from one room to the next with only the one crutch or my cane. Which makes me much more mobile. Struggling to keep my balance on one foot and the like while I was on the 'no weight at all' restriction was a real challenge some times. Now I can use the left foot (still in the storm trooper boot of course) to balance myself out, so I can stand for a while and do things. And as long as the single crutch or the cane is taking most of the weight (75%) I can walk a few steps. For long distances I need both crutches.

Of course with this also comes a new set of exercises. I'm starting on the stretching exercises now to keep the scar tissue on my tendon from hardening and restricting my range of motion. There is some discomfort after the exercises which is why I have to stay off my feet for a while after I've done them, but it will, as they say, be worth it. I'm beginning to feel more optimistic about being able to participate in the Ride to Conquer Cancer in June.

It also means I'll be able to get out a bit more, though for the most part I'm still looking at taking cabs most places. Problem is... it's winter. If it was anytime in late spring to early fall, I'd just hobble my way on crutches to the bus stop and off I'd go. But snow, ice and crutches aren't a terrific mix. I'm concerned about making it to the bus stop safely. So until the snow clears, or they allow full weight bearing on the foot I need to pick my rides carefully.

Speaking of which, I really want to thank those of you who have been helping me through this. The rides, the visits etc. have all been just great. I have a new appreciation for the simple joy of just being able to talk with someone over coffee for a while. Thank you so much.

Well, I guess that's it for now. I'm off to Guelph Little Theatre tonight to watch "The Curious Savage." Apparently it's a pretty good show. Nice sound effects.

Until next time... Shalom.

Progress is Being Made.

For those of you who may be interested, I had my first physiotherapy session today. My therapist. Laurie, says things are looking pretty good. She's pleased with my range of motion and says I have a little more strength in my ankle than most people who go through what I've been through. Not a lot, but more than average by her experience. This I credit to the good Lord and all of you who have been praying for me out there.

We talked about my goal of participating in the Ride to Conquer Cancer in June and I would have to describe her response as 'cautiously optimistic.' She definitely feels that cycling will once again be a part of my life, it's just a matter of how soon. I have a regimen of range of motion exercises to do and I see her again on Monday. More time with my foot out of the boot - this is a good thing.

One of the more difficult exercises involves tracing out the letters of the alphabet in the air with my big toe. I was surprised at how much difficulty I have doing this. It's like I can remember how to form simple letters. I found myself having to really concentrate to get the shapes right. I'm wondering if being right-handed translated to writing with my feet as well. So I tried the same exercise with my right foot and found it a dozen times easier. Still trying to decide if it's a left-brain/right-brain thing, or is it all in my head. lol

Speaking of the Ride, word is out that registration for the 2009 Ride to Conquer cancer is closed. last year 2850 cyclist participated in The Ride, and I'm sure it will be even larger this year. That 2850 qualified for the largest cycling fundraiser in Canadian history. I'm really looking forward to riding with Team Kortright this year. It will be a great weekend for all of us.

So please continue to pray for me and all the members of the team; Brian Watson, Graham Watson, Noah Bartozzi and David Rippon, that all of our physical and fund raising challenges will be met. Thanks Everyone

Until next time...
Shalom