I'm glad my journey has been an inspiration to others. Please keep in mind that we all heal at our own pace, depending on the procedure used, our age, and our lifestyle before surgery. I only put up with the pain for a year before I decided to have the surgery so I wasn't on a walker already or a sedentary lifestyle. I was gritting my teeth and still taking the stairs several times a day and walking to units to visit patients. That doesn't mean that I'm any tougher or healthier than anyone else. It's just something to consider when comparing your recovery to mine. Celebrate each little milestone and heal at your own pace. Ice, elevate, medicate, and rest. When you begin walking be sure to concentrate on the heel and toe chant. In other words, say heel, toe as you walk to be sure you are walking correctly and not walking flat footed as I discovered I was. Once I realized this, I was able to work the limp out in about a week or so and was walking normally. Remember, take it at your own pace...your body will tell you when to stop. Learn to listen to it...that was a hard lesson for me. I am such a stubborn thing at times. I am continuing to check in every few days here so if you have any questions, please leave them. Everyone at work is so amazed at how I am doing and they are so glad to see me without a limp in my step. You will get there too. Slow and steady wins the race! Deb