PANDEMIC DIARY

A KNEE JERK REACTION

August 4, 2020

This is my knee months prior to surgery. Nothing I did seemed to help.
Everything only had a band-aid effect.

So, I went to the doctor and complained:

I went to his associate believing he could come up with an alternate diagnosis…and he did.

I ran out of the office, seeking an orthopedic surgeon. A specialist? His medical opinion was too little, too late.

In fact, there was only one solution at this point. Surgery.

Here is the real story. On July 27th, at 5:30 AM, I hobbled into the lobby at Durham Regional Hospital with Adele by my side. At 7 AM I was rolled into the operating room. The surgeon began a total knee replacement procedure at 8 AM., completing the surgery at 9:15. Back on the gurney to recovery then onto a private recovery room. Adele returned to the hospital a few minutes after 1:30. At about 2 PM I was up for my first walk. Adele saw me take my first steps. This is what my knee looked like the day of surgery.

Kinda cute. A little thick around the perimeter, but otherwise normal looking.

Compression stocking over surgical gauze and tape following surgery.

…and without the compression stocking.

The bruising that developed after three days ran up and down my leg.

The bandage was removed one week after surgery.

I am now walking with one crutch for safety precautions, but am able to walk unaided already. For most of the day I am in a reclining position with a cool wrap to keep the swelling down. Adele sometimes wraps her head with the device to alleviate the headaches. LOL

A final word of gratitude to all of you. I have been the fortunate recipient of the kindest and most concerned emails and attachments inquiring as to my health and progress. I am deeply moved by your caring and thoughtful words. Thank you.

PANDEMIC DIARY

“THE BEE’S KNEES”

July 25, 2020

Alas! Were I but bobbing at sea
”To land” ne’er would I plea
For open blue many men do flee
Escaping city streets and scree.

T’is true, desire will not free
Me for seasonal mash of peas
Or, divinely sumptuous brie.
As to ocean, such trifles are wee.

Though my head may turn to lea
Beholding forest of birch and fir tree
Then think I of cabin and key
And shirk work and responsibility.

Only God knows. Tomorrow we foresee
Not, nor wish I to decry or decree.
Power, wealth, position I certainly see
Can corrupt king or queen, he or she.

Such dreams provide joy and harmony
Of spirit, whilst Monday I to surgery
Go. Today, green tea I drink, naught whiskey,
For this the period ’pre’ new knee.

Your reflections and corps d’esprit
I so admire. You are “the bee’s knees”
Thank you, your presence; your comments are stellar.
Post-op, I promise a glossy picture of my patella.