August 18, 2008  I’ve been suffering with my right hip since last year (the last 6 months have been in terrible pain). My left one is isn’t as bad but getting there (lately it’s been very painful). Was all set for resurfacing (bilateral) but just recently found out that I was born with one kidney. When I spoke with Blair a few weeks ago (Dr. Su’s been on vacation) about it she said they most likely won’t recommend the resurfacing now because of the Ion issue. I was all geared up for this and now I’m probably faced with going with a total hip replacement. My next decision is one or two (total hip). I didn’t seem to have a problem with deciding on doing 2 for resurfacing, but having an awful time deciding on doing 2 for total hip replacement. I’m 48!

September 21, 2008 My surgery was slated for Sept 8th (yes 2 weeks ago) and up until that time I will was on the fence of doing two hips–I did schedule for two to be done. I went for my pre op Sept. 3rd and had new xrays taken. When Dr. Su looked at them, my good hip (the left one) had gotten considerably worse–severe. I remember saying to him, if I wake up after having the bad hip done (right) and I’m still in pain with the left hip, it will send me over the top. He suggested, without a doubt, do both! A few days before my surgery I decided to stick with the plan and do both.

It was the best decision I made!!! I don’t want to go through this again and knowing that makes the healing and recovering so much easier. I am two weeks post op and feeling better and stronger each day. Doing two is really not that bad.

September 25, 2008  My husband left me alone the other day for the first time just for a few hours. I think i dropped everything under the sun–even a crutch. SO I had to be very creative in trying to pick it up. My Physical Therapist was actually laughing because of all the things on my kitchen floor I could not pick up. I am very fortunate my husband works out of the house with this whole ordeal. I couldn’t have done it alone. (Plus I have two children 10 and 12 that have been wonderful.) A facility is the next best thing.

I am into my third week and really feel terrific. Walking further and faster! I left the house last night for the first time for back to school night. Of course my daughters class was on the second floor and climbed all the steps to the second floor! I’m pretty much off all the pain meds. I do take it at night though from the soreness of working my legs all day.

November 8, 2008  I am doing incredibly well! I walked over a mile with my kids on Halloween. It’s amazing. I was born with slight hip dysplasia and just completely wore out both my hips…at 48. I was very scared and so apprehensive this summer but I could not take the pain and walked with a horrible limp. I know everyone is different but it truly was not as bad as I thought it would be. I have no pain at all! I feel the worst of it was the ‘before’ time of worrying about everything, the kids, the family, what if something goes wrong, the unknown, etc.