Isn't strange how our memories can hop around and suddenly you're back there, living it all over again. That was me a few days ago, all because some one asked me why I walked with my 'Rhet Butler' my wheels! And I was back the memory of nearly over balancing 5 years ago in lockdown, while we were living in Suffolk. And I bought my Rollator. I can walk on even ground without it, but still using a walking stick.. all because of a broken arm.
It all happened just like that, so simply... we'd had our Italian Evening class and were leaving the college, hand in hand as you do, and at the exit doors the group of people in front of us, stopped just outside to light up their cigs. Dh and I let go our hands and as I went to step aside to go round them, the next thing I knew I was pitching forward and put out my hand and that was it, my right humerus broke!
I spent over an hour on the ground and when eventually an ambulance arrived and tried in vane to put a needle in a vein; I was then taken to Colchester hospital. It was a night mare, they wanted to keep me over night and I was worried about the dog at home. Dh left about 11 and I spent a very uncomfortable night in the ER on a trolley. They had cut open my beautiful cerise coloured jumper, which really upset me. The pain was controlled and I did doze, but I was very unhappy.
Dh came to get me the next morning and I was allowed home with a brace, not a cast and told there would be no need for an op. and it would heal in the next few months. It didn't and it hasn't really healed, That was 2015, the next year a different consultant operated on it twice and in 2017 I was referred to The Royal London Orthopedic Hospital, where I had two more ops, including a shoulder replacement.. And all I can say is, that one broken arm has changed my life completely. I don't have full use of my arm, so struggle to do loads of things.. but buying that Rollator was a good idea because it has taken the fear out of falling again and I walk really well with it. Yesterday I walked along the sea front, well wrapped up, although it wasn't that chilly!! And watched the sea, quite calm and gently rolling in.. lovely! For a short moment the clouds parted, but most of the time, it was a grey afternoon. But the fresh air was clear and I enjoyed the walk... still under a mile but I want to go a bit further each time to strengthen my legs and help with losing weight
7 comments:
A moment in time can change everything and new, unwelcome challenges arise. You've found a way through, and I applaud you for that 😊
We have moments in time that we can never erase from our thoughts. But you are doing so well with the walking and what a lovely place to do it.
That fall must be etched in your mind. You have come through and found a way. The walking sounds wonderful and is a great way to stay in shape and enjoy nature. Here, it helps us physically and mentally. Take care.
Thank you for sharing that story. I had been wondering what happened to your arm but didn't think I should ask. Have they ever given you an explanation of why you still don't have use of it?
Ah me, and don't we wish we could roll back the cameras and take that moment back. Your poor arm.
That walker is a very good idea. Why take chances unnecessarily? Better to be able to walk safely and worry-free!
My stepmom had a fall years ago in a similar circumstance - she ended up breaking her ankle very badly - had to have surgery and her ankle is now held together with a series of pins. She was in a wheelchair for a few weeks - managed without a cane for a few years but now has a "walker" what we call a rollator for outdoors - she is ok indoors on an even surface but needs the support and security if outside. It can be very frustrating for you, especially as this probably could have been a different situation if treated properly from the start - really makes you think....
We have to keep trying. It might be hard, but there's no alternative.
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