Ladies

This post is from Jeannie’s SO, John. I want to update everyone on Jeannie’s progress. First I would like to thank everyone for the cards, gifts, calls, and or, for reaching out in spirit to support Jeannie. This has been a very difficult time!! I cannot begin to tell everyone how much this show of support has helped. In light of yesterdays doctor visit, I encourage everyone to continue with the positive energy.

Jeannie had her follow up appointment with the orthopedist yesterday. The experience was considerably more difficult than we imagined. The doctor indicated that he could see improvement, but set out to defeat every sense of hope that Jeannie and I could muster. He went through a long dissertation about how she would never be the same. The doctor told Jeannie that she should make plans to reinvent her entire life, leaving no stone unturned. He suggested she will “never” return to her previous activities. He stated directly that our optimism about the future was unrealistic. It went on and on, heartbreaking word after heartbreaking word. Needless to say, Jeannie was in shock. The bottom line according to him was to expect the worst. Obscured by the negative were two positives. Jeannie was cleared to begin limited weight bearing therapy and in a passing remark the Doctor acknowledged that stationary cycling could be a beneficial therapy.

Fast forward back to the extended care facility, Jeannie’s PT team came to visit and the proverbial sh*t hit the fan. As a team, they rallied around Jeannie and dismissed every claim asserted by Dr Negative. The staff Orthopedist, DR Q, came by and was astounded by this unrealistic prognosis. He told Jeannie to consider that no Doctor is God. The Doctors negative estimates are just that, estimates. He commended Jeannie for her fighting spirit and notable progress. He encouraged her about future prospects and dismissed the negatives as just speculation.

This whole ordeal was then put to bed in spectacular fashion. The PT Staff gathered around and encouraged Jeannie to stand for the first time since Feb 23. She stood up and sat back down with minimal physical assistance. With the enthusiasm and support generated by the group, Jeannie stood up a second time and was able to move her feet. Walking will be next !!!