The last few weeks have been interesting at times and trying at others as I’ve started healing from my June 25 shoulder surgery.
I say "started" healing because I still have a long way to go before my left shoulder and arm are again fully functional. I’m currently limited to lifting no more than a pound with my left arm. If I’m lucky, I’ll be able to start lifting more by the end of next month.
Even if I knew all the medical jargon, I couldn’t begin to explain everything they did to repair my wounded wing. I can tell you they had to detach and reattach my bicep to get to some troubled areas in the shoulder. I also can tell you that I’m fortunate that my rotator cuff remains intact.
Being on the disabled list is never easy, especially for someone as independent as me. It was hard to let go of my reins as Crestview's sports authority, but I knew I would be in no state to even think about writing for several weeks. I want to give a shout out to the sports guys at the Northwest Florida Daily News, for picking up the ball when I couldn’t, and providing stories to keep the News Bulletin sports section going.
There are so many people to thank: from my sister, Kathy Rhodes, for helping me out a few days after surgery, to Mike Dean for sending a crew to my house to fix a busted fence. Crestview High School baseball Coach Tim Gillis and his wife, Amy, drove from the Hub City to Fort Walton Beach and brought me a delicious roast. Amy, a nurse by training, even helped change my bandages.
Friends from Beachside Community Church in Fort Walton Beach brought me food and helped mow my lawn. Kelly Humphrey, the Northwest Florida Daily News military writer, and her husband, John, brought me chicken one night. Friends from my church in Knoxville that I haven’t seen in years have sent cards and videos to help me pass the time.
My best friend, Ken Hardy, came over from Baldwin County, Ala., to check on me one day. And my diabetes educator, Deanna, made a house call to make sure I was OK.
Countless others, including members of the Baker School football team, have encouraged me by telling me I am in their prayers.
It has been, and will be, a team effort as the healing continues.
I started physical therapy last week and one of the therapists, Leslie, is a former Fort Walton Beach High School athlete I covered during her playing days with the Vikings. I think Leslie’s nickname for me might be “Relax,” as she encourages me to let go of my control and let her do the work needed for my rehabilitation.
Crestview High Quarterback Club’s Chris Moore has volunteered to help me with the photos I need until I’m able to lift my camera again. And I know others will continue to come to my aid as needed here on the job, as well as on the home front.
I am humbled and blessed by the outpouring of support I have received. Thanks to everyone for letting me see that I do have other shoulders to lean on during the many seasons of life.
Email News Bulletin Sports Editor Randy Dickson, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: DICKSON: Help comes in time of healing