I've had a number of great outings this past week, and enjoyed visits from some dear friends. I didn't think people were checking my blog much anymore, since most of the "excitement" in my life is behind me - at least for now. But one friend on Monday asked why I hadn't updated it....she got worried. So Jeannie Ryer - this one's for you.
Part of getting out has been learning how to ride in the car comfortably. The ride home from the hospital in Boston was a long and uncomfortable experience, so I needed to build up my stamina for shorter rides. Since I can't lean back comfortably, due to the incisions, I needed to find a position that I could sustain. After numerous tries, I am able to do it...and although I'm not quite ready for a road trip, I can at least get to the places I want to. I'm reminded of just how liberating a car can be. Next hurdle - figuring out to drive again with this chunky brace!
Monday was a day beyond compare. I got all duded up - first time for makeup and earrings since July - and headed down to a luncheon at the NH Center for Nonprofits gathering, a group where I sit on the board. I knew that many of favorite people would be there, and I was right. In addition to seeing many coworkers who I haven't seen since my surgery, I saw many, many old friends. I knew it would be a great outing when I walked through the door, and the Center's staff all shouted at once, "Ellen's here!".
As I moved through the crowd toward the room where the lunch was held, Edda Cantor appeared out of nowhere. Edda understands this surgery process well, and she cleared a path for me wherever I went. My biggest fear right now is toppling over, since I'm still trying to get used to this new body. She got me seated, and made sure that everytime I needed to stand up, my cane was nearby. At the end of the remarks, I was really warmed by a kind introduction from the MC, as I had missed the morning's introduction of the Center's Board Members, so I got my own 10 seconds of fame, and got to wave my cane to the crowd. It was a great moment.
So, all in all the recuperation continues along well. My walking regimen is still at about 2 miles, so now I need to kick it up a notch. And with weather like this, how wonderful it is to be outside.
Ellen
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
Ellen~I think we are the ones who were blessed by your appearance. It was enlightening to see you, and to hear everyone cheering for you. You are very well liked and respected by your peers, and that was great to see.
I have enjoyed your blog, also, and look at it for updates whenever I have a chance. I agree with your friend who asked you about it. However, it has to be in ratio to what feels right for you, and what works for you in terms of actually getting online to post here. I'm for keeping it going until you are completely healed and back to work, no pressure, though.
Take care, it was a pleasure to see you (and grab a hug) the other day. It was also lovely seeing your Mom again, I love how she protects you from the masses.
Warmly~
Martha
p.s. Looking for you to increase that work to 2.5, 3, 3.5 miles, and so on and so on and so on.....
Ellen,
Thanks for the update. It will save you from having to repeat it when I see you - which I hope is soon. This past weekend was spent helping a friend from law school with the sudden loss of her husband, leaving her with 4 children. I was at his memorial service on Sunday (in Boston). I hope to arrive at your place on Saturday with the chicken I promised you and some more movies! Glad to hear you are doing so well. Maybe we can schedule some short walks soon?
Love,
Connie
Post a Comment