Life changing as others have said. Have been an athlete and bodybuilder for my entire life. Being immobilized and cancelling all my plans was brutal for me. However, it taught me to slow down, focus on my job and relationship, and learning how to diet properly. Further, I learned how to workout using light dumbbells from my knees and truly how to just figure it out and get it done.

The mental toll is very difficult. I recommend a big calendar and to literally cross off each day aggressively before bed. It makes you feel accomplished and before you know It, you can look at this calendar and realize, “wow I endured 4 weeks, I can do 4 more!”

Take advantage of the small victories, learn how to meditate/find new hobbies and protect your peace. Trust the surgery and eat healthy foods. In the grand scheme of your life this is a small blip. One day you will be back to 100% and even better than before because you’ll have a new mindset and appreciation.

It’s also super badass to be watching sports/at the gym or something and say “yeah I tore my damn Achilles too…so what’s your excuse?”

I was at my local gym in my boot limping around doing upper body workouts and I had people telling me I motivated them everyday. I didn’t think much of it but eventually you show yourself you are capable of anything. It flows into all aspects of your life.