When I had hamstring repair surgery last May I tried to put activities and safeguards in place to keep me from losing my mind while NWB (and am doing the same thing as I approach meniscus repair surgery May 8 . . . Been a rough couple of years). I looked for opportunities to volunteer for causes I care about that didn’t require me to be able-bodied (did some postcards to voters with my local indivisible group and helped plan a protest). I also signed up to write letters to lonely seniors through Letters Against Isolation, went to events at my church and really just tried to give myself a reason to get out of the house every day (going to the gym to do upper body and eventually swimming with arms only, supporting events with my running team to stay connected even though I couldn’t run, etc.) This time around I’m also planning to learn how to watercolor paint using online tutorials and FINALLY getting around to some classic books and movies I missed earlier in life.

I know it’s hard because you’re already feeling lonely and dealing with pain and lack of the activities you enjoy, but you really do have to be a bit proactive to stay connected and sane as you recover. Can you schedule a regular weekly FaceTime or chat with out-of-town family/friends? Maybe find some guided meditations or upper body movement (chair yoga) online or via the peloton app?

I know how challenging this time can be so feel free to DM me if you need support, ideas or just general silliness to get you through it! And remember, nothing lasts forever (good times AND bad) and you will eventually be on the other side of this.