It seems like when I'm at my lowest and I haven't posted in a while, so many of you send me an email to ask how I'm doing and hope that I'm okay. I know I've said it a thousand times before but I want to thank you all again from the bottom of my heart for your thoughts, prayers and concerns. I wish I could put into words how much I appreciate each and every one of you who takes the time to read my blog and stay in touch.
I have debated whether I should mention anything at all but because of your expressed concern and loyalty, I've decided that you you deserve an explanation as to where I've been and why I've been so quiet lately.
Those of you who have been following me for a while know that I was diagnosed with cancer six months after moving to Nova Scotia back in 2010. About a year and a half later in August of 2013 and after extensive chemo and radiation, the bones in my left hip fractured as a result.
To make a long story short, I've had two failed hip surgeries on the same hip simply because the bones in that area are too weak making it virtually impossible to attach the necessary apparatus that would keep my hip together. Because of this, the next surgery will involve bone grafting, something that I hope and pray will never happen.
The hip surgeries left me with my left leg being about 1cm shorter than my right leg. 1cm might not seem like a lot but when it comes to the body's physical structure, it's enough to throw one's back and lower spine out of alignment which accounts for the excruciating pain that I've been living with on-and-off for the last 3 years.
The last couple of months have been a nightmare. I've been housebound for the most part because I can't stand erect for more than 30 seconds at a time, nor can I take 10-15 steps without my legs giving out. If I didn't have my walker to support me, I wouldn't be able to do even that because I have no feeling in the bottom of my feet. Sitting doesn't bother me but I have to get up and "walk" around at least once an hour because I'm afraid of blood clots.
I don't know what I'd do without Mr. Painted Quilt. He's my rock and I rely on him to do virtually 98% of the things I used to do around the house which both he and I now realize was a lot. My "disabilities" have put a lot of stress on both of us and for this I ask you to keep us in your thoughts and prayers.
With the help of pain meds, I have managed to get the pain under control which is a huge blessing. Next, we have to find the cause of the swelling and lack of feeling in my lower legs and feet. My doctor seems to think I'll be admitted to the hospital some time soon in order for them to do more "work-ups".
Needless to say, there hasn't been too much happening on the quilting or sewing front. Last week I did manage to make a couple of placemats using fabrics from my "A Vintage Autumn" collection for my couldn't-have-asked-for-better next door neighbors, Charlie and Martha. Two more wonderful and caring people you'll never meet.
And that's my story. I'm sorry to have burdened you but as I said above, I think you warrant an explanation.
I'll try to keep you posted as things develop and as I'm able.
Happy stitching!
