 |
| in cooler weather |
A double dose of antibiotics seemed to knock most of the bacterial infection out of me, but I continued coughing almost nonstop. I actually bruised my ribs during this time, which made breathing very difficult and aerobic exercise almost impossible. I did try cycling twice and made occasional forays to the gym, but it was wasted effort. I had to take several catnaps a day, even as recently as this weekend.
Last week, I decided to try the elliptical trainer. I am used to exercising 2 plus hours per day, but just 30 minutes on the elliptical was very difficult. I took a day of rest and then continued, adding time every day. It seemed to help stretch the intercostal muscles along my rib cage and made it easier to breathe (and sleep).
Yesterday, I woke up feeling very good, was able to hit the elliptical for 45 minutes, and then lifted weights. I could see that I lost a lot of strength in less than a month. I also lost 7 pounds, and suspect the weight lost was mostly muscle. It is probably going to take me several months to get my strength back. In the evening, I was able to walk my seeing eye dog buddy for a mile, and he was very happy.
An elliptical trainer reminds me very much of a hybrid bicycle. Once I can do an hour on the elliptical, I can return to cycling.
My appetite is still shitty but that probably is more the result of the heat than my illness.
On the bright side, I really have improved my French language skills and the cataract surgery made it possible for me to return to reading.
I want to thank those of you who reached out to me or who left encouraging comments on this blog. I know pretty clearly now that I have more time behind me than in front of me and that's OK. As the stoic Marcus Aurelius said, "Death smiles at us all. All a man can do is smile back."
16 comments:
As Billy Joel would sing
Only the good die young
Welcome back.
Glad you are feeling better.
Easy does it as you work your way back. You’ll be surprised how good you feel in a week or two. Glad you feel better!
“I had to take several catnaps a day, even as recently as this weekend.”
Who do you think you are, the President of the United States?
I recall your post from when you first fell ill but I wasn't aware you had bronchitis. Breathing issues knock you down. Good thoughts for your continued recovery. The elliptical is a terrific machine. Crank up the resistance as you feel up to it.
“I also lost 7 pounds, and suspect the weight lost was mostly muscle.”
I’ve been reading your recent posts. It must have been all muscle because it’s obvious that you haven’t lost an ounce of the fat in your head!
Glad you’re doing better.
So glad u feel better. It really s...to get old. Bronchitis can be scary. Take care of you
Glad you recovered Bernie, that was a hell of a run.
The Banker
Glad to hear you are on the mend. I’m looking forward to reading your thoughts even though I don’t often agree. You’re a better reporter than the MC.
Hope you feel better.
Signed
Someone You Typically Clash With
A little slower, Bernie. Glad you maybe took my words to heart (or not) and obtained medical intervention. Take care.
Re: your recovery - “a steady pace wins the race.” Don’t do anything crazy and get yourself back on the IL. Be well.
Glad to hear it!
I'm telling you got the Clap. It'll enhance your street cred.
You're welcome.
Glad you are feeling better! Continue the journey!
Too bad….
Post a Comment