A New Hip!
(This post is intended only for family and friends. If you are not among them, please ignore.)
First, thank you.
My hip-replacement surgery was completed on June 22, efficiently and effectively, by a fine doctor. The procedure went well, and I am grateful for that.
Thank you so much for the cards, flowers, messages, and good wishes. They sweetened some painful days, and I felt the kindness behind every one of them.
The truth is that these two weeks were more difficult than I had expected. I can say that more easily now because I am recovering well—physically, mentally, and even sleep-wise. But yes, the last two weeks have been, to put it gently, “challenging.”
The pain on the first day after surgery was far beyond what I had imagined. But, happily, it has lessened day by day, and today it is quite mild. From that first painful day forward, the great tasks were pain control, careful management of several medications, and the steady work of getting the body back under command.
Sleep was another matter. For many nights, I had to sleep folded up on my back, with my legs and back raised, unable to move with any ease. Sleep, like Hamlet’s peace of mind, proved elusive. But that, too, has improved, and I can now lie flat again.
Complicating these difficulties has been a deeply painful legal matter involving Craig Biddle. Craig is someone I supported for nearly twenty years—with substantial financial help, personal generosity, trips, opportunities, and loyalty. His embezzlement of $millions has been the greatest and most painful betrayal of my life. That matter has added a heavy burden to an already difficult period.
Because of all this, I have not been able to respond to emails as promptly or thoughtfully as I would like. I hope this week will mark a change.
The good news is that I am now walking unaided, except for the occasional use of a cane. I have cast off the walker and the crutches, and I am ready to go dancing. Well—perhaps next week.
Again, thank you for your kindness, encouragement, moral support, and good thoughts.
Warmly,
Carl