Phoenix: Live Love Laugh

At six weeks post shoulder replacement, I’m still in pain, still pushing through physical therapy, and now preparing for a second surgery—my hip replacement. Here’s what recovery looks like when life refuses to pause.

Weeks 5 & 6: Recovery, Real Talk, and Pain Management

Let me start by saying:
I wanted to write this last week—week five—but the truth is, I was in too much pain to finish a single paragraph.
So here we are, week six. And I’m finally ready to share.

Last week marked five weeks post-op since my left shoulder replacement.
I’ve been working consistently—both at home and in physical therapy—doing all the stretches, building strength…
But still, no real relief.
Yes, I’ve regained some movement, but the muscle damage is going to take far more time than I ever imagined.

The Cycle of Delay and Consequence

I put off surgery for as long as I could—
trying to work long enough to pay down some of the medical bills.
But in doing so, I created more damage… and now, more bills I can’t work to pay off.

Ah, the vicious cycle of being sick in the “land of opportunity.”

When I asked my therapist,
“How long does it take to strengthen muscles?”
The answer was sobering:
Months.

Months I don’t really have—
Because guess what?
My hip also needs to be replaced.
And lately, sitting and walking have become excruciating.

Week 6 Post-Op Appointment: A Dose of Reality

I had my six-week follow-up appointment on Monday.
It went about how I expected.

More physical therapy.
Stronger medications.
And a small scolding.

The surgeon reminded me—firmly—that I’m rushing the healing process.
He asked, “Why are you letting this stress you out?”

I wanted to say:
Sir, I have things to do. Places to go. People to see. 😅

But okay… he’s right.
I’ve been placing unfair expectations on myself, and it’s been backfiring emotionally.

A Few Life Realities I’m Wrestling With

• School starts in two weeks. I’m a substitute teacher and haven’t worked all summer.
• I’m still in pain, even with all the effort I’ve put in.
• I don’t want to go back on heavy medication.
• I’m scheduled to have hip surgery in December.
• And I’m still recovering from years of deferred care.

So, I’m going to try something different:

✅ Mentally relax
✅ Stop rushing
✅ Be okay with not being 100% yet
✅ Focus on strength, not speed
✅ Accept that healing isn’t linear
✅ Trust God’s timing—not mine

Looking Ahead

I’ll keep strengthening.
I’ll keep stretching.
I’ll keep praying.
I’ll keep showing up.

And I’ll keep writing—because this journey, painful as it is, deserves to be remembered.

Stay tuned—next week, recovery continues. 💪🏽.