I was cleared Tuesday morning by my vascular surgeon’s office to resume driving, which allows me to have a somewhat fuller life. Among other things, I can again apply for jobs (anyone got one?) because now I can get to interviews!
I am still limited. Probably another 3 weeks before I am allowed to life >5 lbs at a time (although I have been known to cheat and scoop a 6 lb cat). Does not prevent me from shopping- just have to put less in bags, then carry them one at a time from car to kitchen.
I am still by my standards low energy, and tire easily. But after all, two weeks ago I was in the hospital after having a stent placed in my aorta. So I suppose I should not complain.
I have lost the extra weight I gained while my system was sluggish because of the general anesthesia, which is nice. I cannot really exercise beyond walking, and for now 15 minutes or so seems to be about the limit without stressing myself.
I was told today that if things continue to go well, I should be pretty fully recovered in a couple of months. In the meantime, no leaf raking (too much repetitive motion — did it once and got chewed out for doing it) — and I will not be able to shovel snow (but have arranged to be on a list of those who cannot that our neighborhood association covers — important because I have a corner lot with public sidewalks on both sides.
Bills are starting to come in. Thanks to generosity of those who contributed to my GoFundMe I am expecting they are now covered.
And the importance of insurance — as I was going through paperwork today I discovered that one of my wife’s prescriptions goes about 2K/each round — fortunately that is completely covered by insurance.
Normally for the short term, since we are effectively in holiday season, I would look for a retail job of some kind for some income, hoping to find something else. There are two problems with that. First, I should not be standing all day. More important, most retail jobs involved some levels of lifting — remember that 5 pound restriction?
Still, I am not complaining. And of course I remain grateful for the emotional/spiritual support I have received from this community.
Peace