Three Week Report

Today is three weeks since surgery. I will say that I am starting to feel better, although there are still some sore spots in my shoulder especially when doing the exercises I have to increase range of motion. I am also finding that I get tired a bit more easily, which is interesting as I have not really been doing a lot of physical activities. The highly technicolor bruises that are on the upper arm have faded considerably.

The surgery bills are starting to roll in, and between the hospital and surgeon the total for two hours in surgery and about 90 minutes in recovery is close to $30,000 (at least that is what my insurance company has been billed.) But, for that price, I got some pictures that I can share with you (click to make them larger, then click again to zoom more). These are of the inside of my shoulder during surgery. I actually find it fascinating since most people won't ever get to see full color pictures of the inside of their body. The first set shows the red inflammation in the tendon and the tear in the rotator cuff, plus the tool that was used to shave away part of the bone. The second set shows the repair to the tendon, which was sutured to two small posts that were inserted into the bone. The sutures and posts are all made of a sugar compound that will dissolve in about 2 years.

Note that these pictures are not quite as graphic as the video I posted earlier of an operation- so even if you are a bit squeamish, you might find these interesting.

Today's Special Guest

Today I am featuring a special guest, none other than Loretta. Here you will see Loretta braving the heat to cut the grass on Sunday and she did a fine job. The curious thing to me, is that a lot of people have asked if there is anything they can do to help, which I greatly appreciate, but almost every one has asked "Do you want me to come over and cut your grass?" I offered the job to a 11 year old boy a few doors down from us, who said "Let me think about that and get back to you." Turns out he already has a few lawn mowing jobs for the summer.

So thanks, Loretta, for a job well done!

Cosmic Dave

On Saturday, we drove up to Cleveland for a memorial celebration for my sister, held at Chagrin Valley Little Theater. It was very nice and thanks to everyone who attended and made it possible. Loretta, Mary and I decided to grab a quick lunch at Dave's Cosmic Sub Shop, across from the theater. We even got to meet Cosmic Dave (see the picture). What a great guy and a lot of fun to talk to. He asked what had happened to my arm and I told him, "I got into a fight with the last guy who screwed up my sub order. But you should see that guy." Wearing a sling makes me funny.

A Good Day

Today is a good day. I had my first post-operation visit to the doctor, and the bandages are off for good. Meaning no more Glad Press-N-Seal before taking a shower. One picture is of Tom Hunt, Physician Assistant to Dr. Westerheide, removing the bandages (don't be distracted by my totally many physique). Overall, things look good and I'm totally amazed at all the work that was done through four very small incisions that are healing over nicely. He even mentioned some additional work they did that I didn't know about until today. Really incredible.

Now, the other side of the coin is that I have to keep wearing the sling for another five weeks until my next check up to let the rotator cuff repair heal. So, still no driving until then, and then will come physical therapy to rebuild strength. The other picture is of my doctor, Ken Westerheide. A good man.

Oh, and I got my hair cut today.

On the road to recovery.

Ah, the UltraSling, which in 95 degree heat should more aptly be called "the rottisserie."
I have been spending most of the days indoors to escape the heat, feeling better but still a lot of soreness in the shoulder. My upper arm is a nice technicolor shade of yellow and purple- very attractive. First post-op doctor visit is on Friday morning.
Spent the holiday around the house, Monday evening Loret took me out for sushi and a walk around the mall.
Thanks to everyone who has read my notes and left nice, and occassionally interesting comments.
Bu the big question on everyone's minds- what will LeBron do? Who cares !
Go Netherlands!

Done!

Well, it's over. Successful surgery done on Thursday at 10:45 and I was home by 3:30. Now it's time to do some exercises to help range of motion and I was finally able to shower today. First follow up doctor visit is Friday. Too many stories to tell while typing with one hand, so more later. Overall feeling a bit better each day. Loretta has been my Florence Nightengale and is a real champ, changing dressings, helping me dress, and generally being awesome. More later.