PT Graduation

Today as I walked into physical therapy I left my cane in the car because I didn't need it 😀 

M came with me and I was looking forward to her meeting everyone and being in charge of the timer.  She kept to herself most of the time, but tested out the heating pad and kept the timer while I was doing my trunk rotations.  It was fun and felt carefree as before we started my therapist asked if I was ready to graduate...and today I was.  A few weeks ago a different therapist mentioned I may be close to graduating and I was quite surprised and unprepared.  However today I felt stronger and smarter.  Like I had passed my finals and was equipped with a degree.  An education that taught me to alternate initiating between right and left, practicing balance, strengthening my core, and that small repetitive exercises make a big difference.  I also felt an enormous amount of gratitude for my therapist and the team there, if I had known today was my last day I would have brought them flowers and cookies.  

I still have work to do, we did a brief reassessment and the balance on my left leg is poor - but improved.  I can barely stand on my left leg without support and only for 30 seconds with a two finger touch...but it is an improvement and I've noticed the difference when climbing stairs.  I still do need my cane in different situations, but I knew I would be able to walk into PT without it.  I'm considering not taking it to the office next time...we'll see.  One thing I have liked about using it at work is that it gives me something to hold on to while getting into a rolling office chair.  In most environments I have to scoot or lift myself into any seat, and if wheels are added to that process it can get chaotic...there have been times I've rolled myself across the room or missed the seat completely.

Also this week I heard from NYC and they have scheduled me for my next set of appointments on the 24th.  So now the work begins on my spinal fusion degree.  Wish me luck!