Walking!!!

[Broken Dahlia]

I took my first unassisted steps today since my accident in January. Yesterday my physical therapist told me that intense fear (like a loose tiger) would block the pain response and I would be able to run away. I didn't realize how much fear I still had; not being able to flee has been terrifying. He also did some cool mirror-box therapy to show my brain that I have two healthy legs. I left feeling elated, and then had a panic attack!
Today I decided to just try, and it worked! This would not have happened yesterday, and even though they were baby steps I am so proud of myself! I have worked and worked, the pain has been ridiculous and I know there is more to come but I finally feel like I can handle this. I'm so happy I might just have another panic attack.

 

[The Albatross]

Congratulations on your unassisted steps Dahlia!

 

[Kintsugi]

Congratulations! I am so proud of you. I hope you are proud of yourself. I hope these are the first steps of many to come. Go you!

 

[shimmerz]

Beautiful Dahlia! Absolutely beautiful. I am so thrilled for you! :hug:

 

[Broken Dahlia]

Congratulations on your unassisted steps Dahlia!

Thank you!!

 

[Broken Dahlia]

Congratulations! I am so proud of you. I hope you are proud of yourself. I hope these are the first...

Thank you!! I am proud of myself, but it feels strange to accept it.

 

[Broken Dahlia]

Beautiful Dahlia! Absolutely beautiful. I am so thrilled for you! :hug:

Thank you!! He told me that someday I can even run again! It is so hard to believe, but I really am stronger now. Now to deal with happiness, it feels so strange, but I'll take it!

 

[Whyteferret]

Congratulations! Those first few times are so powerful.
You'll run again. Don't doubt it.