Finally got back on my bike today for the first time in 2021, after seven months recovering from spinal surgery. The shitty weather and blowing cold Ballarat wind couldn’t take away from my sheer joy in being back on the road, with the wind in my face, fighting back tears of relief.
spinal injury
Back on the scoreboard with a nice little brownie
I went out on my own for a fish on Friday, but my mate came up to Ballarat today (from Melbourne) to take me out for a first proper
session, today at Newlyn Reservoir.
My first fishing outing for 2021
Today was a nice sunny day, only 14°C but it feels like 20-something. I could take it no longer: I had to get out. I haven’t fished since early December 2020 due to my back issues, so it was refreshing to get the spinning rod out and hit Lake Wendouree.
Back on the bike and about to wet a line again!
The past fortnight has been a big change from a recovery perspective, some things have regressed a little and other areas are rapidly improving.
The pain has regressed somewhat. It was to be expected as I lowered my narcotic levels that the underlying pain would surface, but it has been hard to go backwards in areas like sleep. On the other hand, my trip to the physiotherapist certainly paid dividends and I have been able to help out more around the house, which with a troublesome teenager reluctant to contribute, has been a good thing for our family dynamic.
Some good news, some disappointing news, and a general update on my progress
I had my first outpatient follow-up appointment with my neurosurgeon yesterday. Today marks five weeks since my surgery. I was hoping for a little more relaxing of restrictions than the surgeon ultimately allowed, but got more than I expected in other areas, so I’m altogether OK with that.
Coming home
I’ve been home for a full week now and though it’s been a big disruption, it’s nice to be home where I can be comfortable.
Rehabilitation at St. John of God in Ballarat
I’ve almost finished my rehabilitation stint at St. John of God in Ballarat: I am scheduled for discharge tomorrow. Homeward bound! I’m very glad I opted to do the rehab:…
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Recovery and rehabilitation
It’s been just over a week since my surgery, and I’ve discharged from St. Vincent’s in Fitzroy and am now closer to home at St. John of God in Ballarat,…
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‘Staying in here’: What to do when a ‘rainy day’ turns into months
So I love the outdoors, this much is obvious. Whether you’re reading my blog for the first time, or have been hanging around for a while, I think it’s safe to assume with a blog called Getting Out There that my happiness in life involves being outside. Unfortunately, in late November 2020 I injured my spine, herniating my L5/S1 disc.