The chorus of the old Carly Simon song is running through my head on this July 28, because I am in “Anticipation” of what the X-ray of my foot will reveal at tomorrow’s doctor’s appointment.
Four weeks ago, he said at the next visit they might get me up and walking, sort of, if the X-rays showed enough healing has taken place.
I know that I, for one, am ready to shuck this cast for good. It seems to be like having a ball and chain attached. After seven weeks of not being able to stand on two feet, I am ready to give it a try again.
I never thought I would miss standing up. It is one of my least favorite things to do. I’d much rather walk around than just stand in place. Now, I enjoy some time each day, perched on my left foot, with my hands on the walker, just standing there. After a minute or so, I take my right leg and rotate it around, and swing it as far as I can without hitting anything with my bare toes.
I enjoy the freedom that those few minutes give me each day, but reality says that I am still limited in doing simple things such as going up and down a step or two, or even taking a step or two, other than hopping on the left foot.
If the X-ray is as wonderful as I pray it is, then I will need to learn new rules and regulations. If I get into a walking boot as I hope to, I still won’t be able to do all the things I hope to do. However, I would think I would be able to maybe have a stand-up shower? Be able to walk down the two steps to get into the garage? Perhaps go outside and get the mail?
All of this anticipation is making me wait, and all of the questions chasing around in my head won’t be answered until the doctor’s visit tomorrow. Even then, this doctor seems to hurry in and out of the room so fast that I don’t get to ask all my questions.
Also, tomorrow is a chance to get outside again. I really have not minded staying in these past hot and muggy days. And since it is such a chore to get me in and out of the house, I hate to put my family through that chore more than needed. But tomorrow is to be a cooler day, and I will treasure the time spent out of the house.
Meanwhile, I must admit that the weeks have passed faster than I ever dreamed. My family has run errands for me, and visited. Friends have also been in and out, or phone calls have helped the days go by quickly, for the most part. Of course, each day I have some time on the computer, with Facebook and email, and writing this column.
The other day a friend sent me an email about people over 50 years of age. There are certain things that don’t go together, it says. Such as spiked hair and bald spots, or a nose ring and bifocals. Sometimes laughter is the best medicine.
