Stoneaxe's Update

[joebloggs]

Sounds like you're doing really well.  Glad the headaches are under control - that's really important.  It's hard to feel good when your head is pounding eh?  I got that weird stabbing pain while I was still in hospital - it's weird isn't it?  At least it doesn't last very long.

Anyway glad you're doing so well - maybe you should get a lock on the fridge??!!

[moe]

Bob,
I sense progress! Maybe you will paddle after all!
Still listen to your body. It will tell you when you over do it.
Keep the faith with the face and smile. It'll be back.
Maureen

[leapyrtwins]

Stone -

nice scar.  I like JB's shark bite idea - very credible.

Sounds like you're making great progress.  You'll be back to paddling in no time 

Jan

[stoneaxe]

Mowed the lawn today..5,000 sq/ft or so with a push mower. Felt great to be productive. Then I had a nice long nap in my hammock... . Going to get started on a couple of woodworking projects this week. Some new paddles and a surfboard (a first) for a friend.

There is no question about me paddling the CCBC in August! That's an absolute! Seeing Dr. McKenna on Monday to have stitches removed. Going to get word then about how quickly I can get back on the water.

[Kathy M]

I'm glad to see you're doing so great.  I loved the picture  - what a beautiful scar!!  Once you get those stiches out, it's amazing how quickly it will fade.  Good luck on your projects.  Kinda nice to have some time to devote to things you otherwise just can't work in!!

Kathy

[leapyrtwins]

Stone -

I can still recall the first time I mowed the lawn post op.

My yard isn't nearly as big as yours, but I got so dizzy 

Congratulations on this milestone.

Jan

[joebloggs]

I'm going down to the bookies to place a bet you'll be on the board in 2 or 3 weeks..... I went out for about 45 mins today and thought of you - I sent you all my best paddling vibes - admittedly they're not very good but they're something!!  I saw three jellyfish today too - a good incentive not to fall off!

[stoneaxe]

Stitches out, facial weakness continues. Dr McKenna still assures me it should return completely. Got some ointment for my eye. Balance continues slow improvements. Interesting this time the balance is continuous/consistant. It used to vary a lot. I think getting rid of the nerve is going to be a good improvement.

Next appointment is July 13th...I'm hoping for the go ahead to hit the water then.

[Keri]

Good for you, Bob. You're doing great! Hope you can hit the water soon!

Keri

[Jim Scott]

Bob ~

Kudos on your excellent recovery and positive attitude.  I strongly believe that being motivated to get back to doing the things you love can be an immense help in recovery, assuming the physical ability is there.  I couldn't paddleboard to save my life and have no interest in trying (sorry) but I did other things post-op that challenged me and, I believe, helped me recover faster than I may have, otherwise.  I can't prove that but I believe it, based on mine and other AN post-op patient's accounts of running half-marathons, biking, etc. weeks after surgery.   

I know I join many others rooting for you to 'hit the water' in a few more weeks as well as recover your full facial mobility.  I know you'll do it, too. 

Jim

[Seal]

Hi Bob,

Things are looking good, and as Jim says, the progress you make will depend on yourself and the motivation that you have to get back on the water.    Be sure not to overdue it of course, and listen to your body when it calls for nap time.    The naps though will get shorter and shorter.    I saw a big difference in strength and endurance on weeks four through six.    Hopefully, you will follow the same track; as they say, your mileage may vary.      Now I'd better get back on that training schedule soon or you'll be overtaking me in the recovery department!     Glad to  hear you're doing well!

Best regards,
Steve

[Tumbleweed]

Bob, I love your attitude. You are an inspiration to us all. Keep getting well.

Best wishes,
TW

[tsl]

Hi Bob,
I've been away from my computer for a few days and have just caught up on your progress.  Picture makes you look like a rugged Bruce Willis!

It's good to hear that you've come thru the rough patch.  I know that THE BOSS is taking good care of you.  Recovering from this type of surgery is hard.  I'm glad that Dr. McKenna says that your face will return to its pre-surgery look.  He has done so many of these surgeries he knows.
Take care,
Theresa (tsl)

[stoneaxe]

Latest update: Things are proceeding very smoothly. I think my balance is better than before surgery already. PT says I'm doing so well she's changing it to one day/week. No headaches...off all drugs except occasional ibuprofen for swelling. Double vision almost completely gone. Things still do get a bit fuzzy as I get tired. I think I'm ready to get back into the world. I can drive without problem most of the time. My face is still unmoving but I've seen improvement in my eye for sure. Face looks a little less droopy according to Sue.

I have to say I'm very pleasantly surprised by how good I feel. Life is Good!

[nteeman]

Bob,

Good to read that you are coming along. Everyday it gets better and better.

Cheers,
Neal