Mel held my hand as I walked over very rough pavement and sidewalks. He held my hand when I stepped over uneven curbs. He grabbed hold of my arm and stopped me when I stepped into the street and the bus decided it had the right of way, not me. (hey! the little man was green! I had the right of way!!!) When I got too tired, he sat beside me on a bench (3 times!) and waited until I had gathered up my strength and could go on again.
Wow. I can't believe how much muscle I have lost in my legs, especially my calves. It is strange that I can't just go down the stairs and out the door and walk almost anywhere I want to in the city. I have a ways to go before I'll be able to do that again!
But I made it! It took me an hour and fifteen minutes to walk 2.45 miles (apx), but I did it. I am very happy about that.
Another milestone for me today was on the stationary bike. I started out riding it with the seat set so that there were 3 holes showing in the shaft. Today I lowered it one hole so now there are only 2 holes showing. This is a huge gain for me. I think the walk yesterday, plus all of the leg exercises I do each day, has enabled me to do this.
When we first got back here, I started riding the bike and every time the first few rotations really were stiff and actually hurt a bit as I warmed up. After that I was fine and could peddle with no problems. I am riding three times a day, 10 minutes each time right now.
Today I started out at 3 notches and after 5 minutes stopped and dropped the seat down to 2 notches. I was shocked when I got back on - absolutely no stiffness or pain at all! When I ride again later, I'll start and 2 notches and see what happens. Hopefully I still will be able to do it pain/stiffness free, but if not - that's ok. I'll keep working at it until I can.
So - walking and riding - I am happy!
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