3 weeks after surgery

Yesterday marked three weeks since I had the operation on my left foot. Things have progressed considerably, better than I initially anticipated. I am walking now, using a cane only for long distances and stairs but soon I will not need it any longer. I have continued to wear the ankle brace and will do so until I see the doctor in a couple weeks and he gives me the go ahead to walk without it. 

After prolonged periods of walking or standing, my foot starts to ache but 1) as time passes it’s getting easier and 2) this short-term pain is for long-term gain making the present situation easier to bear. Additionally, I get a bit of soreness in my leg as my body is getting used to walking differently with my foot in its corrected position. At this point the swelling has come down substantially and I can already see a difference in the overall shape of my foot. There is a more pronounced arch although I have not walked barefoot yet (the ultimate test) but I am believing for good things. 

It’s kind of crazy because at this point I have no idea what to expect but the situation has never looked more hopeful. I have a lot on my to-do list once I’m fully recovered. I haven’t jogged in two years or jumped in four years (crazy) but circumstances are changing as I type this out. The closest thing I can relate it to is pent-up demand whereby people have been deprived of something for so long that they go crazy when they get their hands on it. I am feeling a lot of gratitude for everything that has transpired over the past few weeks and am excited to keep moving forward.

Verse of the day: "Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:30-31

Day 10 - Healing Is Taking Place!!

The first step is always the hardest. That phrase took on a whole new meaning for me recently.  To backtrack a little bit I went to the doctor two days ago for the first time since the operation. I am happy to report that everything went well! He took an x-ray of my foot and I could already see the improvement. The doctor told me that the stent was exactly where it needed to be. I would never know it from looking at the exterior of my foot as it is still extremely swollen. It just goes to show that no matter what things looks like on the outside, it is not necessarily reflective of what is happening or of the things to come. The doc gave me an ankle brace to wear since he did not have a boot my size (I guess he does not see size 15 feet very often) and told me to wear it with good, supportive sneakers. 
 

Up until that point my foot had not touched the ground for eight days. It does not seem like a long period of time but it felt like an eternity. To be honest, I was apprehensive about putting pressure on my foot, even with the support of crutches. The other day I saw my cousin who is about to turn a year old and she is just starting to walk. She stands on her two feet, takes one quick step and then either immediately sits down or grabs hold of the closest object to avoid falling. Two days ago I could identify with that as I was reluctant to put weight on my foot, but that feeling has quickly faded.

Today I made a conscious decision not to use crutches at all. I took the train to work and even though my walk from the station to my office took probably three times longer than normal, it was incredibly satisfying. There was a little bit of pain but it was that good pain, like pain from going to the gym. I might have overdone it because now my foot hurts a little bit but I plan on icing it tonight and seeing how it feels tomorrow. I am just happy not to be using the crutches, and my shoulders are rejoicing.

I am looking forward to continued progress. This week has not been the easiest, but rather than dwelling on my current state I find comfort in the fact that this is just a season in life and I will be better for it. In every adversity there is the seed of an equal or greater benefit. God is still good and I am blessed to be where I am right now.

Verse of the day: "In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." Romans 8:37

Day 6

Things are looking up! I have not had any pain for the last few days, but still have not put any pressure on my foot. I am going back to work tomorrow after having last week off. Even though I will be crutching my way through the streets of New York, I am looking forward to it after spending most of my time on the couch for the past week. I will post an update tomorrow about my first full day out the house.

Verse of the day: "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Mark 11:24