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Happenings At The Hollow 7

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Happenings At The Hollow 7

Hello my foxy friends! I’ve been meaning to write this for some time, knowing that I really needed to touch-base with you all, and kind of let you know what’s going on with me. It’s been almost 5 years since I did a “Happenings At the Hollow”. Which I instituted to be able to stay in-touch when I had news or smaller tidbits to share, that might not fall into a DIY or Decorating category. Today’s post made a reappearance of HATH necessary. Some of you may recall that I started having problems with my right knee a few years ago. I think I even wrote a post a silly post about having to travel at the time. Well, it got to the point that I could not put any weight on that leg. But after an intense physical therapy routine things were looking up and I was able to walk again, and even stand like a Flamingo! I graduated from PT, and that was such a good day!

Unfortunately, my problem reoccurred and we discovered I had a serious issue that would eventually require surgical intervention. I spent about the last year receiving Cortisone injections (which helped considerably). Until they didn’t.

That leaves me on the journey that I will be beginning on April 29th, when I will undergo surgery to have a full and total knee replacement. Just typing that kind of makes me sick. I am equal parts nauseous, nervous and excited. The excited part stems from I hope that I will be able to regain my physicality and be able to do all the things I want to do. Because slowly, and overtime, the trouble with my right knee has caused considerable issues with my good left knee and my left foot, due to over compensation, etc… that’s all a whole nother mess. But we’ll address my right knee first, and hopefully things will settle down and I’ll be right as rain. 

These multiple issues I’ve had going on have really limited my mobility, and subsequently, my ability to do all the projects that my mind can dream up. It’s really diminished my quality of life overall, and that’s what prompted me to go ahead with the surgery. it got bad enough. Some days it’s all I can do to get my basics accomplished. Things like showering, marketing and general home upkeep… cleaning, dishes, laundry. And tackling them in a two story home. It’s why my posts have gotten less frequent. My body just doesn’t want to cooperate with all my mind wants to do. And I’m stubborn, so I push more than I should.

And when you see my new posts, please know I still love and enjoy what I do! I’m driven to continue to make our home the best it can be, and to make it work well for us (and our guests at The Little Cottage). I’ve just been doing them a little slower than usual, and they take a lot more effort and determination.

Overall I am still very happy, and I’m basically trying to think forward! I’ve definitely been through worse (you can read what I mean here) I know this will be behind me soon and I’ll be back on my feet and doing all the things I love to do. But much faster! 

NEW DEVELOPMENT: I was all ready to hit publish on this short update, but in true Shannon fashion… there has been a hiccup. When I attended my first pre-op physical therapy session, it was discovered that I’ve got a pinched nerve in my back and it’s affecting my right leg. And could hinder my post-op recovery. I’m now awaiting a call for a MRI and X-ray of my back. My surgery has been officially postponed. Jim’s week off (to care for me) has been postponed, and my mom’s flight (to come help out) has been… yep, postponed. It’s important for me to have help afterwards, as I will be using a walker and pretty limited for the first week at least, and restricted from driving for 6 weeks. And our two story house is going to present some challenges.

In short — I’m living in limbo right now. When I’ve got more information I’ll let you all know. And I promise, you WILL NOT be seeing pictures of my knee on social media afterwards. I vow that to you now. I will save you that horror. LOL – I won’t even want to look! 

There will be NEW POSTS popping up though, because I’ve been working to be ahead of the game for my Better Homes & Gardens projects, and I’ll be bursting to share them by then!!!! And when I do, any social shares will be extra appreciated – Like hitting SHARE on my Facebook posts, or pinning on Pinterest. Of course, that is ALWAYS appreciated at other times too.

Okay foxes, I tried to keep it pretty to-the-point for you. This is not exactly what I planned to share (the postponement), but I’ve been keeping pretty mum about this and I thought I’d better chat with you guys before I just went off the grid and had you wondering where I was. 

If you’ve had a knee replacement, I’d love to hear your good advice, but please don’t scare the bejesus out of me. I’ve put this off for too long, and I’ve finally committed to it. Don’t make me contemplate running away from home instead of going through with it. Because I’ve already considered that, but sadly… I wouldn’t get far. hahaha

Thanks in advance for your support!! It means SO MUCH!! xo Shan

 

Comments

  1. marj says

    Sha;nnon, I have had both knees totally replaced,(not at the same time) and it has meant great mobility for me. I followed the thereapy routine completely and it has worked out well. each person’s experience, I have found, is different. One knee was replaced about 18 years ago, and the other 10 years ago. Keep the exercises going to retain flexibility and strength in the knees. *(My surgeon used minimal invasive surgery, which allows for faster recovery and better rehab ). I hope that is available to yu. Good luck, and keep a positive attitude, which I know you do have!!!!!

  2. Betty says

    I had a knee replacement 2 months ago. I can do everything. I did not have to take any pain meds after surgery and no morphine during surgery. I could of come home that same day but they kept me 24 hrs in the hospital. I am 74 years old. I never had any trouble walking or any of the PT things. In fact after 3 wks of PT my Heel Slides were up to 130. I talked with my PT`s before surgery and started doing the exercises. Which really helped me do so well after. And after 2 months my knee looks great. I drank protein shakes and took my vit. I wanted to keep my body in good health.
    You will be surprised how well you feel, I can do anything but jump and run. Which I won`t of done.
    Keep us informed on how you are doing.

    • Shannon at Fox Hollow Cottage says

      WOW Betty, that is AMAZING! What a remarkable recovery you had. I too am supposed to start pre-op PT but they put it on hold until we know what’s going on with my back? I hope to have some news soon and to move forward so I can put all this behind me 🙂
      Thank you SO much for sharing your experience!!

  3. Carol Cook says

    I can’t tell you how many friends of mine have had knee replacement and they are ALL doing fantastic. And, they were up and doing things quickly.

    Wishing you well on the procedure and healing process.

  4. Diane says

    Hello
    My husband had both of his knees replaced at the same time about 10 years ago. A word of encouragement, he has never regretted it and would do it again in a heart beat. His knees have not slowed him down or hurt him. We ski, hike and bike. I’m happy for you to move forward. Be sure to research your orthopedic surgeon. You want one that this procedure is their specialty.

  5. Margaret says

    Hi Shannon,
    My husband had knee replacement in December. He is doing great.
    Be sure you follow all the doctors orders and do your physical therapy and
    exercises. That is the key to successful recovery. Prayers for a good outcome.

  6. Lisa says

    Shannon, I wish all the best for you.
    I personally have not had a knee replacement but have two friends who have had it done and they say it was the best decision.
    You will be running up and down your stairs with ease and with your arms full of new pillows in no time 🙂
    Please know your blog brings joy to your readers and I look forward to your speedy recovery.

  7. Pat Auger says

    Shannon, I’m glad you are sharing about your upcoming surgery. I can’t speak to the back issues, but can relate to the knee replacement. About nine years ago (age 57), I had both of my knees replaced at the same time. Let me say first, I would do it again in a heartbeat. It is so great to be able to move without pain, kneel down sit on the floor, etc.

    Yes, it is all painful, but gets better day by day. I think it may realistically take 9-12 months total to be completely comfortable and not think about it or have pain, but after 8-12 weeks it is almost just twinges of pain. I just kept thinking of being able to walk, bend over, kneel, play with the grandkids, garden and not fall so easily.

    I highly recommend having the surgery – it is not going to get better – just more painful and debilitating. Why not have some temporary pain to finally be pain free? That was my mantra to get through it.
    If I found out mine wore out, I would do it again without hesitation. It opens your life back up and lets you live a normal active life again.

    • Shannon at Fox Hollow Cottage says

      Pat, thank you for such an in-depth account of your experience and the possible timelines. At this point 9-12 months isn’t even a big deal, as I’ve been dealing with it for years already now. That gives me something to look forward to! Thanks again, and I’m delighted you are doing so well!!

  8. Mary Smart says

    Dear Shannon,
    I feel your pain as I have been going through the same thing, except with both knees. It has limited my mobility and the things that I want to do considerably. I have been trying to get the surgery for over a year, but I also have Diabetes which effects the surgery greatly, as far as a good outcome. So I did some research and found out about stem cell research in knees and the news is very promising.
    I had stem cells put in my knees about two months ago and I am starting to feel a difference. It was worth a shot for me as I could not get my Diabetes as low as they wanted. Stem cell therapy is not covered by Insurance yet, so you have to pay cash. To do both knees it cost $7500 and I may need another shot in both knees that would cost another $5000. I just wanted to let you know there is something else out there if the surgery does not work out. If I could have gotten the surgery I would have last year. I hope you find a resolution soon and I will be thinking of you.

  9. Lynda says

    OMG! You definitely have a lot going on. Hope everything works out for the best and soon. Just wanted to let you know that my husband had double knee replacement 2 years ago and he is doing fantastic! It was/is the best thing he did. He had gotten to where he was in so much pain. His double knee decision was because the recovery time was the same for a single. He was in the hospital for 3 days and then moved directly to the rehab facility where he stayed for 9 days. Then he did outpatient PT for about 3 months. I truly believe that going to the rehab facility was what got him to where he is as they worked him everyday for so many hours where if he had come straight home he would have only had 1 hour a day, 3 days a week. Good luck to you!

  10. Lucy Beliveau says

    I’m very happy for you, Shannon! I’ve had both my knee and my hip totally replaced and will soon have my other knee and hip replaced and the final result is fantastic! I understand your pain and am so sorry you are experiencing the miserable inconveniences involved! I’m not doing real well myself right now!! My only bit of really good, solid advice is for you to please be patient and kind with yourself and follow exactly what the physical therapist tells you to do.
    Good luck and God’s speed!! Lucy Beliveau

  11. Deborah DeJesus says

    Shannon, I am so sorry to read you have been in pain from your knee. I hope your after-surgery recovery period is filled with lots of rest & inspiration, amazing plans for upcoming projects, and even more loving memories spent with your mom while she takes care of you! You’ve got this!!

  12. Janie Cottrell says

    Seasons of life. Some are fun…some are hard. Just know that I do miss you and pray for an uneventful and speedy recovery. I will be looking forward to all your “delightful projects” when you feel better. Be brave.

  13. Christine says

    Shannon stay strong and keep the faith! Prayers are sent your way through this journey. ~CCW

  14. Debbie Esparza says

    I am so sorry for all you are going through! When it rains, it floods! I wish you only the best. I can somewhat relate as I am 4 weeks postop. Biceps tendon and rotator cuff repair. I too had a low back fusion and it was a piece of cake compared to this shoulder business! I send you positive thoughts.

  15. Jill Cooper says

    You will be just fine with the knee replacement! My step-father had two done when he was in his eighties and came back very quickly – barely used the walker. They give you this machine that you put your knee up over and it stretches it back and forth – you do this several times a day. If you use it as directed, it will help you bounce back quickly. Think positive!!!

Happenings At The Hollow 7

Happenings At The Hollow 7 Hello my foxy friends! I've been meaning to write this for some time, knowing that I really needed to touch-base with you all, and kind of let you know what's going on with me. It's been almost 5 years since I did a 'Happenin...
 
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