How about an update? Some of you might have seen these pics on FaceBook. Overall, I'm feeling pretty good, considering. I got my cervical collar off Nov.29th, and had most restrictions removed. I still can't participate in high impact activities, no Mountain Biking, no aggressive ATV riding. NO RUNNING! In the past couple weeks I've had a couple very humbling moments, where what could have happened has been driven home. I've never taken for granted any stage of my recovery.
Now for that show and tell. First, my outward reminder.
With the birthmark, my daughter quickly noticed I have an exclamation mark on my back now.
And the damage to the T9, is very obvious.
These show the main damage and some above and below. These are slices from the CT or MRI, not sure which. I had 6 CDs of animated imagery to make screenshots from. No easy way to pull single images off the CDs. I can't see the damage in my neck images though. I just don't know what I'm looking for.
And my new internal hardware (Upgrades?).
There wasn't enough material in the T9 to screw into. Thats the point where you see the bridge between the rods. While I'm lucky my injuries are in the least flexible part of my back, I know I'll miss that flexibilty later in life.
I went back to work in mid October. Part time. It wouldn't have been possible, except I ride in a vanpool. They even picked me up and dropped me off at home. Even my co-workers have been patient with me. My back muscles are very weak compared to before the accident. My neck isn't really weak, but still quite stiff and sore, and I have limited ability to turn my head to the right. Otherwise my Range of Motion in my neck is good.
Since I'm back in the gym, I'm using very low weights just building my strength again. I'm pleased that my pain is reduced to the point I can be off the pain killers. Don't get me wrong, I still have some pain, but its not something I can't manage. I still have meds available if I need them. Again, I take nothing for granted. I also realize I'm still fragile and early in my recovery.
There isn't any way to express how I feel towards all those that helped me. Scott probably saved my ability to walk, the ambulance crew, the first ER crew, the medic on the helicopter, and everyone at the hospital including the rehab staff. I also thank you folks for the well wishes and prayers. This has been an amazing journey. Not one I would have ever taken on my own for sure. Humility has never been a strong point of mine, but I have had to learn how to ask for help and now understand that isn't always a weakness. But especially appreciate my family and closest friends for all they've been through with me.
I'm just glad to be here and able to wish everyone a Happy New year!