The picture above came up as a memory of three years ago in my Facebook feed. It reminded me that I had intended to lead a voluntary field trip of my students from the University of Tennessee’s non-credit program up to Max Patch in the Pisgah National Forest to photograph the Milk Way this month. Unfortunately, that voluntary excursion was waylaid by something very involuntary: an injury.

On September 12th, I was at a dog park when a Black Lab, chasing another dog, veered and ran straight into my right leg. The result was a tibial plateau fracture. If you are unfamiliar with this type of injury, your leg has three main bones: the femur, the tibia, and the fibula. Where the bottom of the femur at the top of the leg meets the top of the tibia at the bottom of the leg is tibial plateau and it asks as the shock absorber for the leg. That broke - and along with it broke plans and assignments for me, at least until the end of October. Thankfully, no surgery.

Certain jobs, such as weddings and commercial jobs flying Lynyrd the Drone are impossible for now. However, I was very happy when my doctor told me on September 19th that if I can sists, it fits - that is, studio work is fine so long as I place no weight on my injured leg. Thus, plans for Christmas continue.

In the meantime I cope, living with wheelchair, crutches, and sponge baths. My husband has brought my desk setup from my upstairs office and arranged it on the kitchen table that allows me to keep up in part. Thankfully, the initial pain has subsided immensely, to the point where I may take an Aleve if needed but still rarely. Certain personal tasks, if you catch my drift, I am now able to do even if it takes some time - the more independence I can regain, even for little things, helps emotionally.

So if you have a moment, a good thought or prayer is appreciated.

Much love,

Stephanie

Advice for Others with a Tibial Plateau Fracture

1. It can feel demeaning but ask for help if you need it. Taking pain medication is not “giving up.” By the way, opiates such as hydrocodone are effective but you may need a laxative . . . ahem.

2. If you can use it, get a wheelchair. Getting around on your own, even in a small area, helps to make you feel less helpless. One benefit I have is a wraparound porch on my house so I can get out and do “laps.” Some time outside also helps to elevate a mood.

3. Every day, every hour, every minute . . . you are that much closer to recovery.

4. Think ahead to when you expect to be “back on your feet.” Is it Christmas? Then listen to Christmas music now. Plan an outing for that time.

5. You will have a lot of time on your hands because even if you are “working” on your laptop to try to “keep up,” your sleep will be compromised, whether by pain or the unwieldy brace or cast that is on your leg. Plus, your body is busy growing new bone. That can make a day seem longer so take a nap or indulge in some small treat, such as watching bad reality series while icing your knee.

6. The first proper shower in the bathroom will be euphoric.