Challenge

I live in Canada where our medical system for the most part is free but the downside is that sometimes you have to wait to get something done. In my case it is my right hip. I have osteoarthritis and it is literally bone on bone now with no cartilage.

I had to wait 7 months to see my specialist although admittedly he is top notch being the Head of Orthopedics at our local hospital. There was no question in his mind that I needed a hip replacement. He asked me if I wanted metal or ceramic. I responded, "Well, which one would you choose?" The doctor replied ceramic so I was in. The ceramic hip costs almost $800.00 out of pocket but I signed the papers.

This was way back in September and I have been waiting for a surgery date. On the his office phone is a message, "If you have been waiting less than 6 months for a surgery date, don't bother leaving a message!"

In the meantime, I have plans to take a cruise from Istanbul to Venice in April so I will have to time surgery around this even if they give me a date. Recovery is supposed to take at least 6 weeks or more.

So, in the realm of things that can go wrong with a person this isn't insurmountable. It can be addressed. However, I have been in considerable pain and limping for quite some time. I still work out with caution. I can't do lateral moves such as yoga. I am down to one Zumba a week (ouch) and I still can do spin and work out with weights. I do a lot more than the pre-op exercises they give which are pretty basic.

Now, I am not that proud that sometimes I give in to having a pity party for myself. I have a low pain threshold and get sick and tired of hurting. On the other hand, I am proud that I have stayed the course as best I can at the gym. It would be so easy to just give up!

When I travel I take my hiking poles to keep up with the others. Kind of like Hop-A-Long Cassidy. This whole hip giving out or knee giving out or other parts comes with aging although I have to admit my 97 year old mom has kept all her parts as issued! She walks upright and you guessed it no limp!

Anyhow, I thought I would update myself for any of my Sparkfriends who wondered whatever happened to me. I am going to try to be more present again on this site. Especially, since it seems I can be of help to others and sometimes even inspire. I guess my spark is waning but it is still there and maybe I can reignite it!

I wish everyone a happy and above all a healthy New Year!