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Post by tiffany on Jan 9, 2007 12:00:02 GMT -5
First of all I want to say thanks to everyone who has shared their struggles and battles. Reading over them and seeing the outpour of support helped give me the kick I needed. Back in September my lower back injuries, which I received from a car accident I was in 5 years ago, escalated to a point where I was in so much pain I could barely walk. Needless to say, I have not been in the gym since and have been undergoing a slew of doctor's visits, tests and rehab sessions. My condition has not only affected me but my children as well. I try to keep my boys, ages 12 and 15, very active. Connor is on the school football team and has shown an interest to weight training during this off season and Nicholas plays ball hockey as well as participates in most school sports. Normally I would help Nicholas practice specific skills required for a particular sport or work on his speed, strength and endurance but it is difficult to get him motivated while I am standing on the sidelines instead of working with him. Connor - well lets just say I feel bad that it took so long to get him to the gym because I was afraid I would not be able to go and not want to train myself. I realized part of my frustration was a result of not revamping my goals. I still had visions of being on stage for my first competition by Fall 2007. Because these goals were not obtainable I was setting myself up for failure and gave up on myself. I didn't care what I ate and was not a positive role model for my kids. So my new goal - To prepare for a successful surgery and a speedy recovery by getting into the best shape possible, both physically and mentally.
I have enrolled in a family membership at the YMCA. Connor has started his training and is very excited. Nicholas is participating in both team activities and a youth strength/endurance program and both are enjoying learning the fundamentals of squash. I am able to participate in the aqua fit classes (skipping any moves that require twisting of the spine) and have been giving the OK to try the cross trainer and bike as long as they do not increase the pain or numbness. So far things are going good and I see an improvement in everyones attitude. Nicholas still shows great fear about my upcoming surgery. At the time of the accident I required surgery, a triple fusion in my neck. He was only six at the time and it really affected him. I had no time to prepare the boys, or myself, and it was very difficult - to the point where I wanted to end it all. This time I have a chance to prepare. I'm trying to get things around the house organized, have the boys participate in more daily tasks, stocking up on essentials, trying to get my freezer, which right now is sitting empty in my garage filled with easily prepared meals, anything that I can think of that will make things easier. So I am turning to my fellow WOTW members for help. Maybe you or someone you know has been through something similar and have an idea that will make things easier. Surgery is still a couple months away but as my movement is still limited, it takes me longer to complete tasks and if it involves any kind of lifting I need help. Since I do not have family near by and only a few friends I feel comfortable asking for help (and they have a full plate themselves), I don't want to leave things to the last minute No idea is to small and any help at all would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Tiff  |
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Post by Karrie on Jan 9, 2007 12:07:01 GMT -5
YOU KNOW I SUPPORT YOU 110%!!!! I am sooo proud of you and I am so glad you are back posting!!!! All of us here WILL be here for you to get you through the next few months!!!!!! #smileycheeleader9un# I can see why Nicholas has fears but once he sees you get through this he is gonna see that his mom is one tough and persevering person!!!!!! When it comes to movement just go slow, do what you can do and rest when your body tells you to!!!!! That is the best way to keep from further injuring yourself prior to surger. Eat well, and balanced, which you generally do anyway. And, OF COURSE, follow docs orders!!!!!  |
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Post by Tim Wescott on Jan 9, 2007 13:28:23 GMT -5
Tiff,great attitude,and I sincerely wish you all the best with the upcoming surgery.
I don`t have much advice to add,but I do agree with the great advice given by Karrie.
Stay positive,and know that we are all here if you need to vent or for whatever reason.
Good luck,and God bless.
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Post by mrbeefy on Jan 9, 2007 13:51:10 GMT -5
Tiff,
I would talk with Nicholas so that he will understand totally what is happening, and try to ease his anxiety. Kids fear the dark, becasue they don't know what's there. Same thing here. If he knows what's there, the fear will wase.
You sound strong and prepared. Prepare for the best and the worst. You will overcome.
Try to think ahead of their needs. Transportation? School help? Clothes? Sounds like you have food covered. Also, don't forget about your short term.long term needs too. Ask your Doc about food during recovery. Possible help through social services in case you need a respite from doing some things around the house after the surgery in case you get really tired, etc.
You KNOW we are all here for you. Make sure you can access your PC durng recovery in case you need to vent or whatever. We will do all we can to be here and help you through this.
Then just let go, let God take care of the rest!
Frank
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Post by beckie on Jan 9, 2007 16:45:10 GMT -5
Hey Tiff,Its nice to see you back Whatever you need from us,we are ALL here for you. xxx As far as Nicholas goes I would do as Frank suggested and talk with him about what he can expect from you over the next few months. If he has questions(and I'm sure he does) encourage him to open up to you and ask whatever is on his mind. He will probably hear scary stories at school from other kids so make sure the lines of communication are open at all times. Maybe even speak with his teachers so they know what is happening and can be more supportive? Take care (((HUGS))) |
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Post by tiffany on Jan 10, 2007 12:01:06 GMT -5
Yes Karrie, I have been following doctor's orders but I am ashamed to admit my diet has been reallllllly bad. In September I was down to 136lbs and around 12.5% bf. The New Year rang me in at 148 lbs and sitting around 19% bf.  I know, I know, I've been bad  but I'm working on it. Thanks for everyone's kind words. I have talked a bit about the surgery to Nicholas but I will be able to give the boys more information after I meet with my surgeon Feb 6th. I will have a date, how long I will be in the hospital and more details about how long and what my recovery will be like. Once I have this information I can start making more detailed plans as to where they will stay (their dad's most likely), how they will get to and from their activities and how and when they will be able to visit me at the hospital. Went to the "Y" this morning but didn't feel like going in the pool (Weather here had been above normal until the past few day, temperature started to drop and it started to snow last night. Just getting over a cold and haven't been able to get rid of this chill.) so I did 10 min on cross trainer and then 10 min on bike. Not much but it is getting there. When I first tried I could only do 5 minutes total before my leg started to feel numb. |
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Post by mrbeefy on Jan 10, 2007 14:13:02 GMT -5
Good thinking TIff!
You don't need a cold or virus now too!
Try to keep your immune system stoked up on high.
PLus that will help in your recovery too!
Do whatever you need to do to TRY to keep stress levels down too. I know that's hard right now, but stress will affect your immune system AND, like a pebble thrown into a pond, everyone around you too.
Take it slow!
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Post by tiffany on Jan 11, 2007 10:32:12 GMT -5
Sun is shining and not a cloud in the sky, what a beautiful day!!!! Didn't sleep well last night, a lot of twitching in the right leg, meds eased it a bit but not enough. Was still able to complete 10 min cross trainer / 10 min bike but had to lower the resistance level. The finishing touches on the siding should be done by today - tomorrow at the latest. The house looks so much better!!! Next week I can have the work on the floors started and once that is done have all the duct work cleaned. It has been impossible to keep the place clean, it gets so dusty with all the work going on and it will be nice to finally hang some pictures and make this place feel like home  Have a great day!!! |
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Post by Karrie on Jan 11, 2007 11:16:40 GMT -5
I am sooo happy that you were able to get in a total of 20min cardio in. The resisitance may have been lower, but you did it!!!! #bconfetti2sq# I am excited to hear that your siding is almost done. I forgot you were having that done!!!! It is amazing how something like new siding can revitalize a house!!!! BTW how did your son's football season end?  Your younger one still in the bowling??? |
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Post by tiffany on Jan 15, 2007 13:59:57 GMT -5
Not going to physio today - we had a big ice storm and since the boys are at their dad's, there is no one to clean and salt my steps or driveway.
Connor's football team lost in the second round of playoffs. It was a tie game 0-0 but the other team managed to get a FG on the last play of the game. It was a heart breaker but the team is already getting ready for next year.
Bowling runs September - May so we still have a long way to go. Nicholas is in a tournament next weekend with several of is friends so that should be fun. Ball Hockey, another heart breaker. They lost the championship game 4-3 in double overtime.
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Post by Karrie on Jan 15, 2007 14:05:26 GMT -5
If I lived by you I would come and take care of that ice for you!!!! ;D Is there a neighbor you can call to help you??
I am sorry to hear about Connor's football season but it is good they are gearing up for next year!!!!
AWESOME to hear about Nicholas bowling in that tournament next weekend!!! I bet he is excited especially since he has his friends going in it as well!!!! #smileycheeleader9un#
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Post by tiffany on Jan 15, 2007 15:22:45 GMT -5
My sweet Karrie  unfortunately I live on a pretty busy street so there is no real neighborhood comradity If I was really stuck I could always call the boy's dad and see if he could bring them over for a bit or a few of my friends have offered help if I need it. I realize everyone has busy lives so I try not to impose unless it is really urgent. Did my stretches and am now sitting here with the TENS unit one so the day is not a total waste. Actually, it is probably a good thing that I cannot go out as I am craving ju jubes and the valentines ones are out already which are my favorite |
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Post by sapphire on Jan 15, 2007 18:41:23 GMT -5
Hey Tiff Sorry I have been preoccupied with my own "Stuff" I support you 100 percent and I am here for you if you ever need me. You are a tough chick, we Cyndi/Cindys all are!! |
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Post by Karrie on Jan 16, 2007 11:13:29 GMT -5
My sweet Karrie unfortunately I live on a pretty busy street so there is no real neighborhood comradity If I was really stuck I could always call the boy's dad and see if he could bring them over for a bit or a few of my friends have offered help if I need it. I realize everyone has busy lives so I try not to impose unless it is really urgent. Did my stretches and am now sitting here with the TENS unit one so the day is not a total waste. Actually, it is probably a good thing that I cannot go out as I am craving ju jubes and the valentines ones are out already which are my favorite Do you get relief from the TENS unit??? Quite a few of our patients use them and really like it!!!!! Drink water when you have cravings!!!! At least that helps me!!!! I have been dying for a triple cheeseburger from this place that has the best burgers...but resist and the temptation will flee.....LOL!!!!! |
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Post by tiffany on Jan 16, 2007 18:48:25 GMT -5
I am never completely pain free but the TENs definitely helps, along with heat. I have learned to keep the controls away from Troy and the boys - they think it's funny to give crank it up and give me an extra zap  I figured how to beat the ju jube cravings. Usually I buy them at the Bulk Barn so I never knew the fat/sugar content, but today I was at Wal Mart so I checked out the nutritional value - I think I have been cured Troy can down to make sure I was ok after the ice storm yesterday, it took him almost an hour to clean my car off. Said he wanted to make sure I didn't miss my physio two days in a row so he came with me and did some extra cardio (he hasn't been so good with his diet either ;D). The storm was pretty bad. Trees weighted down by the ice crashed down all over the place, hydro wires and cable lines were down causing power outages and several road closures and car accidents were in the hundreds. |
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Post by tiffany on Jan 16, 2007 18:55:04 GMT -5
Hey Tiff Sorry I have been preoccupied with my own "Stuff" I support you 100 percent and I am here for you if you ever need me. You are a tough chick, we Cyndi/Cindys all are!! Thanks Sapphire, but no need to apologize, you have had a lot on your plate. It is the one great thing about belonging to such a wonderful board. If anyone needs to "step away" there are no hard feelings, and everyone is happy and supportive when you return. Your support means alot to me |
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Post by Karrie on Jan 17, 2007 10:17:42 GMT -5
I am never completely pain free but the TENs definitely helps, along with heat. I have learned to keep the controls away from Troy and the boys - they think it's funny to give crank it up and give me an extra zap I figured how to beat the ju jube cravings. Usually I buy them at the Bulk Barn so I never knew the fat/sugar content, but today I was at Wal Mart so I checked out the nutritional value - I think I have been cured Troy can down to make sure I was ok after the ice storm yesterday, it took him almost an hour to clean my car off. Said he wanted to make sure I didn't miss my physio two days in a row so he came with me and did some extra cardio (he hasn't been so good with his diet either ;D). The storm was pretty bad. Trees weighted down by the ice crashed down all over the place, hydro wires and cable lines were down causing power outages and several road closures and car accidents were in the hundreds. LOL!!!!! Boys!!!! They find amusement in sooo many things!!!!! Giving mom an extra zap!!!! But the TENS are pretty soothing. What are the nutrional values, just out of curiosity? I am sooooo happy to see that Troy came and got that ice off of your car!!!! How thoughtful!!! Glad to see you got in cardo!!!  It sounds like it was a nasty ice storm. We rarely have ice storms here in Northeast Ohio. Thank goodness!!!!! |
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Post by tiffany on Jan 17, 2007 12:56:50 GMT -5
Can't remember the numbers exactly - I have to go out again today so I will check it out. It is beautiful out, cold but the sun is shining and all the trees are still covered in ice so it looks like everything is crystal.
Saw my family doc today, just a check up to see how I am doing. He changed some of my meds, haven't been sleeping well so the pain has been a little more intense the past week. Also a bit of depression/fatigue setting back in as this whole thing is just been going on for so long. I know surgery is getting close but I will still have a long recovery after - it will probably be a full year away from weights by the time it is done. Ugh, it's so frustrating, I was probably in the best shape I had been in in a long time and now I will have to start all over again. I know with your's and Troy's help, support and motivation I will do it, just in a bit of a slump today.
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Post by tiffany on Jan 22, 2007 11:33:33 GMT -5
Well it took a few weeks but I have finally got my eating back on track and have regained my will power to resist even the most tempting sweets. Have gotten in cardio pretty much everyday so that is good but no pool right now as I need a new bathing suit and it's not really the season yet so I am having a hard time finding one.
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Post by Karrie on Jan 22, 2007 12:05:22 GMT -5
First off, I am glad you went to the doc he switched a few things around for you...sometimes we need that. I understand the depression, especially with this surgery coming up really soon, BUT, I am sooo excited for you that there IS A LIGHT at the end of this tunnel. YOU WILL BE ABLE TO WORK OUT AGAIN!!!!! Yes the road to recovery is going to be long, but you will be able to train STRONG one day. Think of how fast a year goes by.....and who knows....you may be able to work out much sooner than a full year. We have NUMEROUS pt's with the proper rehab that are able to go back to lifting sooner than the projected time frame!!!!!
Second, I AM VERY PROUD OF YOU DOING YOUR CARDIO DAILY!!!!! That in itself is just AWESOME!!!!! #k0104ne# #smileygrouplaugh5js# Also glad you got your eating back on track. With the cardio and the eating you will lose some of the weight you are unhappy with!!!!! Keep doing what you are doing!!!! #smileycheeleader9un#
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I know, I know, I've been bad 
but I'm working on it. 
Your younger one still in the bowling???
unfortunately I live on a pretty busy street so there is no real neighborhood comradity If I was really stuck I could always call the boy's dad and see if he could bring them over for a bit or a few of my friends have offered help if I need it. I realize everyone has busy lives so I try not to impose unless it is really urgent.
