A week into recovery: here I stand?

Having been a runner for over two-thirds of my life (since I was 12!), I hit a new kind of "wall" this summer when I was in full-throttle training for a long-distance relay called Reach the Beach.  I noticed swelling in my knee and some consequent limping in late June. I figured the swelling would go down on its own and I continued training steadily for my relay.  The swelling increased.  It continued to do so as I hiked up and down the tallest peak in New England (this time without my dog): Mt. Washington.  As the swelling increased around the knee, running and sometimes even walking became problematic. I sought help from my doctor and an orthopedic specialist.  It is not necessary to record the saga that ensued, but after multiple visits, an X-Ray, an MRI, and several sessions with a physical therapist, I learned I would need surgery to remove the torn radial mensicus that was causing the swelling.

Thankfully, due to following "doctor's orders" of rest, ice, and Aleve, I was able to participate in the Reach the Beach relay to support Camp Calumet in mid-September.  I am thrilled as it was a highlight of the year for me and I exceeded my goal of raising $1200 for camp. 

This is my 12-person relay team "Jump the Lake" soon after we reached Hamden Beach, NH, completing our 207 mile run!

As one might expect, the knee problem persisted long after the race even though prednisone kept discomfort and swelling at bay during the event itself.  Just last week -- eight days ago! - I had arthroscopic surgery to have part of my meniscus removed.  I did not know with certainty how long my recovery time would take though the doctor assured I would "walk out of the clinic" and that I would be able to walk my dog later that same day which I did with the help of friends.

Once the bandage was removed two days after surgery, you almost can't tell on which knee was the operation.

I am grateful for the combination of modern medicine and prayer that contributed to my quick healing as today I hiked gently for 3 miles with my friend Christa and trusty dog Jack. My prayer request has been for "full and quick healing."  The prayer is being answered as I write.

I am also thankful for the internal drive for which I am not responsible but which is always with me; it is a drive that prompts me - despite difficult circumstances - to "stand up, get your mat and walk."  In the case of my walks this week, I did not use a mat and I have not practiced yoga in awhile.  But I did stand up, get a dog leash, and walk in beautiful places with my favorite four-legged friend.

These shots are from my visit to Mt. Tom state reservation in Easthampton, MA, during my first week of recovery.

I look forward to doing a lot more standing up and walking, hiking, skiing and even running again. In the meantime, there are many other actions and outcomes I expect my "internal drive" will prompt me to pursue beyond the physical realm, such as finishing my paper for class at Hartford Seminary, preparing my homily for tomorrow's funeral and completing the liturgical preparation necessary for All Saints' Sunday.

As the prayers rise up, so do I!

When Martin Luther was called before the Emperor Charles V many years ago (1521) to recant his critique of the Catholic church, he said his conscience was captive to the Word of God and that it would be unwise and unsafe to go against his conscience.  He ended his famous speech with the words: "Here I stand, I can do no other."

I hope my actions and words can be this integrated with my own conscience and commitments as well.