Back Home and Rehab

Sunday 17th July found me back at home after 11 days in hospital. Although, in a strange way, I had enjoyed myself at both King's Lynn and Papworth it was good to be home.

Everything over the next few days is a blur. Spent most of the time sleeping or watching the telly and of course being fussed over by my wife. That would soon change! My mum who is in her 70's treated me like I was about 10. Her poor wounded soldier. I must admit that at times it did all get a bit much and I became Mr Grumpy.

I was quite touched though when I received some 'get well soon' videos posted on YouTube by the Three Musketeers (Paul, Andy and Patrick).

I was stuck in the house as I wasn't allowed to drive. I would be able to drive my car 3 weeks after the operation but my HGV licence was suspended until some point in the future.

 

Days turned into weeks. I spent my days on the computer and slowly getting myself fitter by taking walks along the Chesterfield canal. Even these short easy walks knocked me out and I would come home and have a couple of hours sleep.

 

I joined the cardio rehab course at Chesterfield hospital. This involved twice a week exercise sessions; each week the sessions were made more intense. These really did me good, building up my strength and also making me get out of the house. Great set of nurses yet again. Without exception, every single nurse and doctor I have come into contact with have been fantastic. Smiles, good humour and always ready to help or answer questions. I've lost track but it must be about 60 people directly involved with getting me better. I love 'em all!

At the end of September I took my treadmill test for the DVLA. This involves first getting all wired up to an ECG machine and standing on a treadmill machine. At first you are walking at a slow pace, the speed is increased and the angle of the machine is raised. Every couple of minutes the angle is increased even more so you are walking at a brisk pace uphill. It only lasts about 9 or 10 minutes but it's hard work.

My consultant, Dr Hawley, was in charge and, touch wood, everything went fine. It is just now down to the DVLA to say when I can get my HGV back.

So to bring everything up to date. I am going back to work next week; for a start it will be office based and only a few hours each day. If things go ok in a couple of weeks I'll get back to driving, short runs to start off with.