Star

One of the nurses calls me the "star patient" because I am doing so well and am so undemanding and self-sufficient.  I have to get help to go to the bathroom (it's a rule) - that's non-negotiable.  At least they don't stay in there with me, like they said would happen. Only one grouchy old tech has even tried, and I told her I wouldn't be able to go (OK, that was a lie), and she backed off.

The nurses and techs have all been so nice, and I am loving the "room service".  Everyone who visits brings me diet Coke, too.

This morning they took off the heavy dressing and the Ace bandage that has engulfed my leg from hip to toes.  I have a lovely "Oompa Loompa orange" leg.  They put on what the nurse called a giant Post-It note bandaid.  Its adhesive is a soft gel that can be restuck.

Breakfast - scrambled eggs. cream of wheat, oj and coffee.

Occupational therapy helped me clean up and brush my teeth, and I put on a t-shirt in place of my gown.  The doctor said I will be allowed to shower while the staples are still in!  Really great news!

Spent two hours on the leg bendy machine, getting to 34.

Physical therapy - walked to the elevator, then she showed me how to do steps. "Up with the good, down with the bad" tells me which leg to use first.

Lunch - grilled cheese, Cheetos, salad

PT - walked to the elevator, around, and down the other side of the hallway.

Two more hours on the leg bendy machine -  got to 40  (the degree of bend is controlled with a wired remote that I control).  I am supposed to try to increase it gradually.  And I'm supposed to spend 6 hours a day on the machine, in three sessions.

Dinner - crispy chicken strips, salad, mashed potatoes & gravy, strawberry shortcake.

I was being released, along with a bunch of other people.  I told them my ride couldn't come until after 5:00, so they could take care of everyone else first.  I was picked up at 6:00, and was home and settled by 7:00.