One small step for a woman...

... yesterday in physical therapy I walked with crutches, barefoot, across the floor a few times. But I was really using both feet - maybe 70% of my weight was on my feet, the rest on the crutches. It was really exciting. I also did calf raises (with both feet and left foot solo) and squats... both on a machine with very little weight. The calf raise was very difficult for my left foot. We also worked on balance by standing on a foam mat - first with both feet, then alternating feet. I was amazed that I could stand on my left foot all by itself!

While wearing the boot, I pretty much abandoned the crutches today. Walking in the boot is awkward and slow but SO wonderful compared to using crutches. For 2.5 hours this morning I cleaned up the house because I could finally do it - all by myself. I took out the trash and recycling, did laundry (I carried a basketfull of clothes up the stairs). I can even walk up and down stairs putting each foot on a different step - almost as fast as a normal person.

This morning when I woke up something behind my knees (both knees) was sore. I don't know what kind of exercise caused it, but it was pretty exciting to have sore legs - I haven't had that feeling in a long time!!

For now, at least, I'm not taking my newfound freedom for granted. I'm really satisfied and happy and content with my new abilities. Although, knowing myself as well as I do, I doubt that will last for long!