Post bilateral hip replacement recovery

I am having double hip replacement surgery today. The recovery is slow, arduous, and time consuming (12 months to full recovery). I have been unable to work or continue my studies and will be unable to for some time ahead. Over this past year, and in the past, I’ve worked as a yoga teacher, worked at my beloved ocean pool, and was furthering my studies towards becoming a qualified yoga therapist. Around a year and a half ago, I suddenly had mobility issues. I was in increasing pain, struggling with basic yoga postures, mobility, and just walking. This was quite terrifying as my two children rely solely on me. I was wondering what was wrong with me, blaming myself, assuming all the stress and trauma of so many years, had finally caught up with me. After caring for my dearest family members for long periods of time, and losing all of my closest family and a few dear friends, I had no idea how I was going to manage. I barely have but I’m very determined. I’ve kept my children safe, fed and clothed. We have lived very meagrely and they have had to go without many things. We are a safe and love filled little trio. I include my darling nephew, Mischa, in this troupe. Sadly, huge traumas have consistently reared their heads. My children have had no father due to the terrible impact his choices have had upon us all. In fact, no family support whatsoever. For those who know me, know the constant energy I’ve given to support my sister, my mum, and my nephew. It’s been a terribly tough 10 years. I’ve had to remain the strong one for so very long, putting much of my own life on hold to care for, and rescue others. I can see why my hips have completely worn out but it’s also just part of life. Bone on bone osteoarthritis in both, and an undiagnosed genetic hip dysplasia. I am in terrible financial struggle due to no income, sole parenting and basic life necessities. With monies raised, I will have a better chance for a full recovery, time to do all the rehab, physio and feed my children, pay bills, rent, and not feel as if I’m completely going under. My health and capacity to get back to what I love depends on a rigorous and lengthy rehab, and physical recovery. I will be making updates to motivate and keep myself committed to healing.

My children have been my reason to continue through really tough circumstances for so long, they still are, but now it’s about me too. Now it’s time for me to heal for myself as a priority. I really struggle to ask for this help. I have to, for basic coping and survival through this time. Please help me to heal after major surgery, support and care for my two beautiful kids, Lotus and Jett, and get back to a place where I can move into the future strong and able to self support through the work I want to do.

Update: 5 days post operative.

The surgery was successful. I have now started the long road to recovery. It is brutal, to say the least. I’m being well cared for at RPA Hospital. Really incredible care and kindness. I am staying in as long as possible due to needing support to get back on my feet. Each day begins with an overwhelming sense of distress and pain. I then, slowly, start to feel hope as the day progresses. I’ve gone from a large, fully supporting walker, to a smaller one today. Crutches are what I’m aiming for to get home and back in the door. As I have many stairs, I need to be able to get up a few stairs as well. Each day has been tough, but each day has brought the tiniest improvements. Slowly slowly! My new motto.

The kids have been incredibly brave. They are loving and supportive of each other and caring for our animals beautifully. I’m so proud of these wonderful humans. Here are a couple of photos tracking the last few days.