Hello my friends and thanks for your support.
Last edited Wed Aug 26, 2020, 05:19 AM - Edit history (1)
I returned home from the hospital on Monday evening after having my right foot amputated. When I went to ER on the Sunday two weeks ago I suspected that the diabetic ulcer on foot had become infected, but I was also running a fever of 103 degrees which was actually a surprise because I didn't feel feverish. The surgeon operated on my foot three times trying to be conservative (hey, I'm surrounded by Aggies since I live four miles from the Texas A&M campus). The first operation removed the two smallest toes, then six days later a second operation resulted in the removal of a third toe and it would have been best to amputate the entire foot at that time since the foot was infected, but I had not signed off with legal permission to do so.
The good news is that I already think that I have this thing beat and that I'm going to come out of this episode stronger and healthier than when I entered it. I'm already able to safely transfer from the wheelchair to a walker to the commode and back. I may even develop some upper arm and chest strength as I learned how to bump up and down the stairs and venture longer distances in the wheelchair. It would be a bit easier if there wasn't carpet in the apartment because I could manipulate the wheelchair easier on hardwood or another surface. Negotiating the tight angles is still a work in progress, but the math and physics background helps.
Oddly enough I was listening some of my favorite music and found myself using the stump below the knee to help "conduct" the musicians so there isn't any chance that I'm not going to give it a good physical workout since I'm a musician at heart--even if I'm not the most talented performer out there.
I'm going to be busy over the next few days helping my brother catch up on his job, attending appointments, and completing paperwork. My mind has become much more focused and the only thing that is hampering me is some blurry vision (I probably need reading glasses). Bear with me as I will not be posting as frequently as I make sure that I take care of those priorities and also take care of myself. However, when I come back it will be as prolific as ever.
Your support is amazingly invaluable to me and while I can't thank each of you individually please note that your support and good vibes helped to motivate me through the most difficult times. I think of many of you as my extended family and friends. There isn't a chance that I will get knocked down by this because if for no other reasons than to vote for Joe Biden and participate in the victory party so remember to get out the vote and to...
FUCK TRUMP!!! 
= new reply since forum marked as read
Am so glad you are doing better ...
from Oklahoma!
So glad to hear that you're doing much better and your attitude puts anyone else to shame. I'm bummed out since I still have a sinus infection, you're facing a major life change. The only advice I can give you is to please take it easy, put your recovery first. And you might also consider what changes could be made to make it easier for you to get around, at least initially. I heard about that from a member of my "group" whose wife returned home after a similar operation.
Other than that, please let us know how you're doing when you can. And also know that we're so glad to hear from you and that the powerful DU vibes we've all been sending seemed to have worked some of their magic. 
We have property close to MB so are practically neighbors. Get well soon, Stay safe &keep up the positivity. We've missed you here @DU!!
Life does throw some curve balls. Your courage and determination are inspiring and help each one of us face our own challenges. Your DU family is always here for you, cheering you on!
Inspiration you are.
We love you & sending another dose of good healing Vibes!
Onwards and upwards!
It was probably for the best since I've been assisting my brother on his job, but I've learned some things within the past two days that should make my portion of what needs to be accomplished much easier. I think that I can clear out the remaining backlog by the end of this month. The only question is whether he will listen to his smarter younger brother.
All of us needed and still need to take proper precautions as long as COVID-19 is around.
I also should give proper recognition to the Catholic Charities in the area. This is the second time where they touched my life in a positive manner.
considering what you've been through. Glad to hear you're on the mend and you've got this.
And with such a great attitude. You continue to inspire us!
Thanks for the update.
for whatever time you have available. Your attitude is inspiring.
It sounds as though you have an exceptional attitude to help carry you through. Best wishes to you, TT, in your healing process.
So glad you are doing better. We missed you!
❤lmsp
there was a fundraiser "Stickie" in your honor, we really missed you!
when you end with FUCK TRUMP!!! I know you're not only back, you are YOU! 
It was a huge help for me.
A friend suggested that earlier this year when I was having trouble trying to use a walker.I had never heard of them.
I nearly lost a foot falling down a flight of stairs in February. Foot got caught underneath me. It was barely hanging on but the doctor popped it into place, screwed in a metal plate and stitched it back on. Walking fairly well now after 4 months of physical therapy.
With the scooter I was able to roll around the house just fine. We found a used one through an online ad for $40. If you were anywhere near me - I'm in Maryland - I'd drive over with it.
Congratulations on recovering and getting home! Stay well!
Bains. I have missed you.
Luv ya.
BB!
BTW, I went to Hawaii (Oahu) in Nov, and loved it sooo much!
Wonderful you had such a Good Time! 
Stay Safe and Well
You have been greatly missed.
Great to see you too!
So good to know you are up and about. You are an inspiration to us all and a good friend of DU.
Take care of yourself. So happy you're back! 
Sounds like you're doing great!
Oh yea. FUCK TRUMP.
I'm glad to hear that your on the mend and doing much better.
Don't forget to take time and care for yourself during the next few days.
Wow, you’ve been through a lot, I’m happy you’re bouncing back. You were missed..
steadier, stronger and better every day!