Seven Day Week

[MichaelJH]

After last week's glitch when I managed to open up the left side of the wound I have done four days standing and walking with a temporary artifical leg. Now thanks to the weekend I have three days off when I want to push on 🚶🚶🚶! At weekends there is only one of the physio team in each day. If they get a chance I might get a chance to do some strengthening work but they will probably have to focus on the older patients. Walking wirh the temporary legs requires a minimum of two physios. So I will either lay on the bed or sit in my wheelchair hammering my exercise bands (I am determined to snap them 😁). Fortunately I am now free to transfer between bed and wheelchair as previously all transfers had to be supervised.

Anyway back to my main point. Before CovID I could shop, enjoy a coffee, eat out on a Sunday. Yet over a weekend the NHS bar emergencies virtually closes. I should be getting the appropriate physio to move closer to a proper prosthesis, those awaiting an MRI should be being ticked off, etc. The NHS needs to move into the 21st century! OK rant over!

[stillaboveground]

You are so determined Michael or should I say stubborn, you have done very well in such a short time, but don't do too much. Take care, wishing you well. Ruth

[080311]

Couldn’t agree more about your rant Michael, I realise you want to get more physio you are so determined, but carefully does it. I have no doubt you will be walking beautifully with your new leg. You really are the most incredible person.

Best wishes Pauline

[Sunnie2day]

A good rant (I call rants 'venting' ) is good for the soul - vent on as needed!

Meanwhile, as physio is on a weekend break, are there upper body exercises you can do in the chair until Tuesday (I'm assuming physio observes the Bank Holiday)?

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to Sunnie2day]

Yes, I am using exercise bands. I can also pass the band under my foot and exercise the leg. CovID restrictions mean my sister cannot bring in my 5kg dumbbells although I am sure they could be made clinically clean. I think my sister is secretly relieved! 😀

[Sunnie2day in reply to MichaelJH]

Again I'm impressed - I'd need two hands to lift one 5kg dumbbell (or anything else weighing 5kg )!

How do you like resistance bands? I'm not keen but find the bands a good-enough substitute for the rowing machine I had to give up and so I soldier on with them, growling a bit at how fiddly the things can be.

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to Sunnie2day]

The resistance bands are OK but not ideal.

I have used 10kg dumbbells but they are a touch heavy for reps for building stamina or holding your arm straight out in front of you.

[lettingoffsteam]

Must be really frustrating I know but you're doing so well already.I know the days can really drag in hospital but if you keep up your exercises then you'll be doing the best you can do.The time will pass and you'll be whizzing about on that new leg before you know it.🙂

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to lettingoffsteam]

You just have to look at Billy Monger on the F1 program for inspiration. He lost both legs in a horrific accident yet now walks around the paddock doing socially distanced interviews.

The physio on duty today just popped her head around the door. She has been off for two days and read the notes. My five minute free stand for a first attempt is definitely a record! 🎖️

[080311 in reply to MichaelJH]

Standing for five minutes really is worthy of a gold star. Amazing 💪

[lettingoffsteam in reply to MichaelJH]

You've definitely got the right attitude to succeed.😃

[stillaboveground]

You are doing so well, can I book the first virtual dance when you get that leg going.