Rehabilitating Gratefully

Two years ago I became unexpectedly ill and was in the hospital for two weeks - with a colon surgery in the middle of it. After surgery, etc., it took me a few weeks to get back to 100%. That was a time of much contemplation about life and priorities and family and friends. I think back on that time and tears come to my eyes when I think about all of the people who prayed and cared for me. From siblings to complete strangers, I felt the love and support of so many. Two weeks I ago I chose to have both of my knees replaced. Now I am at home recovering and it reminds me of that time two years ago. My friends and family are here with me, checking in, cracking jokes, taking me for walks, complimenting me on my progress, listening to me learn and play the ukulele and loving me up. I have had a couple of rough days when I get impatient because I can't walk or lift my legs on my own. I have pain that cuts through almost anything I try to do to distract myself from it. And I cry. But every day gets better and I have to remind myself that I chose this. In the end, my knees will be better than they were before, right? Better, stronger, faster..... When I am in those darkest depths I remember how lucky I am to have so many people who care about me and to have such a wonderful and full life. I will walk again soon, and I'll be able to lift my legs on my own and bend them to over 90 degrees. It will all come. In the meantime, thank you Dad, for putting in a railing on my back steps and replacing the railing to the basement. Thank you Lucas, for adding the granny bars to my toilet and bathtub. Thank you Diane, for lending me your walker. Thank you Pam for the flowers, books, magazines, and gab fest when you have your own pain. Thank you Margaret and Mary for walking and talking with me. Thank you John and Mary for waking up in the middle of the night to a tearful mom and helping me get to the bathroom. Thank you Greg for the ukulele and to Shawn for the song book and the sage advice. Thank you Kathy for the delicious veggie treats and for organizing my meals for the coming weeks. Thank you all.