I stopped blogging when overgrown connective tissue crippled my fingers from Dupuytren’s Contracture, a hereditary condition. A hand surgeon split my palm open, removed the diseased tissue and attempted to straighten my little finger. The dozens of ragged stitches across my hand healed, but on top of muscle memory, the tendons and ligaments pulled my finger back into a clawed position in a protective natural reaction.
If my pinky was the only problem, I could cope, but while addressing other ongoing health issues, doctors concluded my spine, damaged in too many areas, can’t be fixed. Nothing more can be done medically to alleviate my back problems. My knees are kaput too.
I limp along trying to remain upbeat.
And failing.
Never a candidate for back surgery, knee replacements loom ahead and my finger may be contracted forever. Un-huh. No way. No pity party for me. A hearty can-do cheer would be welcomed.
When my surgeon suggested I see an ergo-therapist,(occupational therapist, aka a hand specialist) for the first time, I thought, “oh no, another specialist!”
Then, I gave it a go.
After a half a dozen visits, the ergo-therapist put my hand in thin, plastic glove and dipped it in warm, melted wax. Then she kneaded my palm and finger to break up scar tissue, restore mobility and coax tendons to loosen their hold on the joint.
I fought back tears of frustration.
“Go ahead. Cry,” she said, patting my arm. “Progress is slow, so hard to see or measure.”
While I gathered my composure, she crafted splints to straighten my finger.
“Wear the hard, plastic orthotic at night; the velcro one in the day,” she instructed. “If it’s too uncomfortable, take it off. Wiggle your fingers. Go for a walk. Relax. Sometimes our bodies need to heal in their own time.”
My physical therapists and chiropractors, too, have always emphasized that mind/body connection. After my accidents, they partnered with me to help me recover and regain as much mobility as possible.
Modern medicine has evolved thousand-fold, but healing remains an ancient art. Those called to the profession — like my son, my daughter, my nieces — are gifted.
Lately, the medical field has been broadsided. Healthcare workers face endless scrutiny and skepticism under a tsunami of misinformation on social media and inaccurate directives from the authorities. That, along with major funding and resource cuts, make their job even harder.
Skilled surgeons helped spare my life, but it was auxiliary health care professionals — therapists, chiropractors, masseurs, counselors, nurses— that saved my broken heart when I wanted to give up.
Never underestimate the healing power of those dedicated people, whose soothing voice and gentle touch (like my “hand whisperer”) ease suffering and save souls.
They restored my faith in humanity.
Kindness matters.
More than ever.
Oh Pat, I totally understand where you are coming from. You have struggled and still remain strong and positive. I often look to you for inspiration in my own health battle. Some days are better than others. It’s an ongoing struggle and, in my case, will get worse over time. I try to look at the abilities that I have rather than the ones that I have lost.
Keep up your amazing attitude. It helps more people than you know.
Love you!
Thanks Joanie. I wrote this post with you in mind and know that your journey is much more challenging than mine. I only wish we lived closer, so that I could pop in and give you hug! I miss you dear friend. I am sending you strength, love and courage to face each new day.
My surgeons have been fantastic! Even designing a special contraption for my arm so it works!! But my physical therapist, Drew, was my Angel. Always encouraging. Always trying to navigate getting me back to 85%. Both of my surgeons in Rockford had high praise for him. They were completely shocked at my improvement in just two weeks time. I’m forever grateful for them all.
Robbin, I am so happy to hear that your surgery was successful and that you had such special angels on your care team. Hope you continue to recover. I am sure your hard work also had a big part in the positive outcome!
Thank you again for your words! You’re right, kindness, understanding and connecting are so helpful.
Sending strength, endurance and love!
Bette
Thanks Bette. And I am sure you have greater impact in the lives of people you work than you could ever imagine. I know your positive encouragement has helped me through many of my darkest days. Thanks also for introducing me to Suleika Jaouad’s work. I follow her & just started reading her Book of Alchemy!
You said it, Pat…Kindness Matters!! Whether one is dealing with physical struggles, financial issues, mental health…a simple smile can ease the pain. Listening and connecting are so important in today’s world. I hope your journey continues forward…keep smiling and pushing on!!
Well said, Barb. We are all facing struggles and challenges. It is so important to keep sharing kindness and smiles especially in these times. I appreciate yours today.