A day I've been looking forward to:
Thank you to Pat and all the members that helped me to make the decision for HR and get through it and the recovery. Has been the best medical decision I ever made and gave me my life back. Can't begin to count or enumerate the freedoms it provided. There's virtually nothing in my realm of interests I can't pursue or be held back from that which the OA prevented. I walk, hike, workout, swim, yard chores, re-roofed the house, built decks, continue to contract and 2 years ago decided to take up an old interest in sailing. A few courses later and a membership in a local club, I'm out sailing keelboats in the wind and waves and crewing in local races over heaving decks, heeling race boats and enjoying a life I'd almost had to give up on, with many more adventures planned.
To those beginning their journey with all the trepidation and concerns it entails- find a good surgeon you trust and have vetted and plunge forward. There's a good life waiting you on the other side. I just past my 5 year anniversary for bilateral surgery and have no reservations, worries or concerns that things are just going to get better. Except old age that is. Still at 68 I'm not slowing down much nor intend to.
Wanted to express my gratitude to Pat for this site, my surgeon Dr. Pritchett and his team, the members on this site that shared their support and insight, the ACA and the life I'm now allowed to lead. Best wishes.
Happy Anniversary Jim. Thanks so much for sharing your story and encouraging others. I appreciate it and I am sure many others do, too. I love anniversary stories.
I wish you the very best and many, many more anniversaries! Thanks for your kind words about my website, too.
Pat