Listening to Your Body

Physical therapy started at 9:00 a.m., and I knew I wasn’t feeling right. With help, I got dressed, got my shoes on, and put on my back brace. My physical therapist helped me transfer to my wheelchair. There are two physical therapists working with me. While I’m...

Pain Management

I look outside the window. The sun is shining, and boats pass by on the water. The water is flat, peaceful; there’s so much beauty outside my window. I’m in a lot of pain. I can feel the surgical work my surgeon did to my back, something I don’t wish for anyone to...

Celebrating Little Wins

It’s 5:50 a.m. and I can’t sleep. I feel drained and exhausted. To the left of me is a window overlooking the Charlestown Navy Yard. I can see the reflection of the water; it looks peaceful and calming. It’s still dark out. However, you can see the cars drive by. I...

Sitting Up in a Recliner: Gratitude

I’m in my hospital room sitting up in a recliner chair. I have an IV in each arm and am wrapped up in a fleece blanket that I brought from home. It’s red and black with white paw prints. I made this blanket for my grandmother years ago. When she passed away, I kept...