@CricketHip: I am trying my best to make this a positive experience because this is only going to give me a more positive outcome on life down the road. I decided early on that I was going to be proactive and try to have as much fun as I can with it because it's my reality and what else can I do? That's why I bought the hip replacement T-shirts such as my avatar; decorated my walker with purple glitter tape and found a Hawaiian flower cane; done everything the physical and occupational therapists have asked me to do; and have done my best to be a model and positive patient at the hospital, PT and my OS. I do admit that I also have a great support system with my family and that helps in spades.
I also am a firm believer that knowledge is power, and forewarned is forearmed. That's the number one reason why I joined this forum and vowed to take any and all suggestions and tips to get through this 100% seriously. You all have been here before me and as I have told newer pre-op posters, there is such of wealth of experience and support on here to be gained. I can't tell you how much I have learned from all of you and how much confidence I have gained knowing that I made the right decision to have these surgeries and that every day I gain more strength, and I thank all of you for that.
Finally, my late mom plays a major role in this whole thing. Among the multiple illnesses she suffered, the main one was rheumatoid arthritis (which thankfully I do not have, both OS and PCP confirm I have osteo). However, instead of being proactive, my mother chose a different path. She refused any physical therapy, even after having a cervical spinal fusion in Boston; trusted her rheumatologist 100% and took everything he said as gospel, refusing to consider any other opinions, even after becoming perpetually angry and depressed; and thanks to said doctor, ended up developing a Vicodin addiction that consumed her. After watching her rapidly deteriorate over a two year period, I vowed that if I ever had any type of medical issue that A. I would be proactive and take care of it ASAP; B. Have no fear questioning doctors about any issues or concerns I have; C. Maintain a positive attitude throughout to the best of my ability, and even try to have some fun. So.....here I am!
It's funny because when I was going under for Surgery #1, I swore I heard my mom saying "You're doing the right thing".