Where Do I Begin?

I've been absent from this space for nearly six months, so I'll give a brief rundown on what's been happening. Despite back pain, I've tried to stay socially active by going to the senior center to play games and cards for an hour or two most days. I've tried to keep up with your blogs and comment when I could. Thank you to all who sent emails to check on me. I appreciate your friendship. 

January - Severe lower back pain made doing anything of substance difficult as the month plodded along. A lumbar ablation was scheduled for February 7, 2024, and I could do nothing more than pop Tylenol and gut it out. 

February - As the ablation date grew near, a small window opened up in the weather and road conditions. I drove to Fort Collins, and Brenda drove up from Denver to be my designated driver after the procedure. Six puncture holes in my back were the only evidence that anything had been done while I was unconscious. Ice, rest, and patience were necessary for the next three weeks. Gradually, I could see and feel more and more relief from the relentless pain, and I was able to actually walk around the block. 

March - Morning walks in the neighborhood continued with little to no pain. I began to do more of the activities that I had put on hold. I was able to stand to cut fabric and prepared a couple of kits for Quilts of Valor. I began to sew.

April - Two months after the ablation, I continued to see progress in my back and my level of activities. Winter storms and strong winds came and went keeping me in the house, but I remained active - sewing, knitting, reading, and doing household chores. Occasionally, my back was cranky with me and required rest and icing. 

May - Three months after the ablation, I am thrilled that I have more energy and motivation than I've had in years. I continued doing the things I love. Took a road trip to Cody, WY and Yellowstone National Park with two friends. We stayed at a lodge owned and operated by a friend. The long road trip did not affect my back at all. 

June - By now four months have passed since the ablation, and I am thrilled with the results. I wish I had known about the procedure years ago. Each day is a blessing. 

I don't know how long I will have pain relief (the nerves will eventually grow back), but my doctor thinks my "advanced" age is a benefit, as the nerves will grow slower: I may get a year or longer. The procedure can be repeated indefinitely.