Getting Encouragement

It's been 2 weeks since my hip surgery. I have been in the rehab hospital for 1 1/2 week now. I am beginning to see how much stronger I am getting and how much more stamina I have than a week ago. It is amazing how the body responds to trauma and when it is in therapy.

I cannot say it has been an easy road, though. I am being stretched in ways that I was not prepared for when I came to rehab. My false expectation was that this would be easier this time because my first surgery, rehab and recovery was so drastic. But, I am learning that there is nothing easy about surgery and recovery at all.

This rehab place is wonderful. It is not state of the art by any means, but the staff knows what they are doing and really work you hard to get you better as quickly as they can. Most of it is up to you by how hard you are willing to work. I am working hard to make sure I can leave on time and in great shape. So, I am getting better day-by-day. Today, I got to have my staples removed. The area around 2 of the staples was irritated, but all of my incision looked great to the nurse.

When the doctor came in to see me, he had me walk. I asked him if he wanted me to walk out in the hall, and he was surprised I was willing to do that. But, after he saw how well I was walking, he was happy and impressed. All this was a great visit. He asked how long I was going to be in rehab. We talked a minute about it and came up with a plan, which I relayed to the head therapist here at rehab.

So, I will remain in rehab until they feel that I am able to get into and out of bed on my own. According to my doctor and my therapist, that won't be long.

What else?

Well, as soon as I am released to go home, we will get the both my medical and radiation oncologist for therapy. My doctor has released me to begin either or both treatments as soon as they would like to. So, by next week, I should have appointments set up with both of them to get the ball rolling.

I don't know how long the radiation therapy will be this time, but what ever it is, I can manage.

So cousins, today was a great day of encouragement you have been praying for.

Reflection:
"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." Romans 15:4-6

Question:
Is there something in your life today where you feel like you need some encouragement? Please share it here and I'll stand in prayer with you to find that encouragement.