Joel's Posts

Well, it doesn't seem possible that six months ago I was posting my Pre-Operation fears and jitters. My surgery was October 28, 2009, so next Wednesday will be my 6 months anniversary. What a difference six months makes! I can truly say that I feel better than I've felt in years! I have been back to work since February first, and have grown steadily stronger. While I still get tired by the end of the day, there isn't really anything that I would be afraid to do. Yesterday I worked in my garden and dug footings to put in some rain barrels under the deck. Who would have thought I could use a pick and shovel after only six months? I have sore muscles this morning, but my chest didn't hurt, and I didn't have shortness of breath. It feels GOOD to work as hard as I want without worrying about my heart. It's spring in Iowa, the flowers are blooming, the robins are singing and it's good to be alive! Joel

Several people have asked how I was doing since returning to work, so I thought I'd write a report. I returned to work full time on February first. The first week was fairly slow, with sales considerably below normal. Even so, I found myself getting really tired by the end of each day. The second week, sales were much stronger, (apparently my selling skills haven't suffered from surgery) and consequently I found it much more difficult to get all the physical work done. I've always been one to keep myself positive, but honestly it was a struggle just to keep going. I guess after being off work for four months, I've gotten pretty soft! I can see in my head what I want to accomplish, but my body can't quite deliver. I guess I shouldn't be discouraged by this, since Dr. Hockmuth warned me that it could take a full year to recover all my strength. Anyway, I'll keep plugging away, and I'm sure that in time, I'll be back 100%. Thanks to all who have asked, Joel

Well, that went well! I was pleasantly surprised at how well I felt today as I got back in the swing at work. I didn't have any major difficulties, although I was getting pretty tired by noon, and feeling ready to hang it up by 4:30! But I didn't hit any roadblocks with lifting or moving pallets. Pat (who has worked my territory while I was away) worked with me today, and we were able to call on 8 stores. That's a pretty good days work even if Pat did a little more than his fair share. :-) If I'm not too sore to get out of bed in the morning, I think I'll do it again tomorrow. Thanks to all for your thoughtful comments, Joel