The Purple Walker Diaries: Week One of Real-Life Rehab

It’s been a week since I came home, and what a week it has been.

Here’s the truth: I ugly cried twice on the first day. Why? Pain, frustration, and the overwhelming feeling of being a burden. Having to ask for help with everything is humbling, and sometimes the tears just come out. Dave and Kellie have been my personal physical therapy team. They’re not quite as tough as the inpatient therapists (thank goodness), but they do their best to keep me moving

With my petite purple Novo walker, I can get around most of the house. Outside and downstairs by myself are still off-limits, but Kell and Dave are heroic in helping me with everything. Dave even installed a handle on the tub so I can bathe the way I love. My shower chair now doubles as a landing pad when I get out, so it wasn’t a wasted purchase after all.

I’ve been practicing with my cane, and am doing better, though it takes a lot of concentration. Walking alone isn’t possible yet, so someone holds onto my waistband while I practice. Kellie had me try a grapevine step while singing, with Dave holding onto my pants. Let’s just say I looked about 74% like a drunken crooner. No doubt they will exploit my clumsiness with film footage.

One day I made a healthy salad in the kitchen all by myself. It felt great til the exhaustion hit. By the end, I felt like I’d been run over by a truck.

I managed a half mile walk outside with Dave and my walker. The sunshine felt glorious, though uphill and downhill stretches worked muscles I didn’t know I had. A sweet neighbor, Kathy, even ran out and placed a plate of cookies on my walker seat as we passed. I came home proud of myself and once again truck-squished tired.

Every day, neighbors have brought dinner and extra food. Our fridge and freezer are overflowing, but more importantly, our hearts are full of gratitude. We truly have the best people around us.

My youngest son came home for the weekend to give my caretakers a break and tackle some neglected cleaning. He even lifted me into the hot tub one night, and the warm water felt heavenly. Together, we pulled out the Christmas decorations, and Dave has been decorating bit by bit. Spending time with my son was wonderful, and he plans to come every weekend. Oh, and I had my hair done this week. Thank you Amberlee! I felt like a real human again.

This first week has been full of ups and downs. There’s been pain, laughter, exhaustion, and so much love from friends and family. I’m blessed with the greatest carers ever. Even when I’m cranky and look like I’ve crawled out from under a rock, I remind myself to focus on the positives and take it one day at a time.