The importance of optimism

[daveinaustin]

Similar to Justin's thread "Realizing your Not Alone..." is the importance of optimism and determinism.

Each one of us have our own set of fears, doubts, uncertainty, anger, pain, and financial issues. However, as we travel our "journey to recovery" it is important to maintain hope.

I believe it was Terry who mentioned to me after my last fusion that we need to stay relaxed and maintain hope, to help our bodies recover better.

There will be good days, and bad. For many of us, more bad days than good. Maybe we'll have 100% recovery, maybe not. Regardless, we'll be much better off looking forward than looking back.

It is impossible to stay optimistic every day. Several hours after the end of the SCS trial yesterday, I started to feel despondent after collapsing from pain. The depression carried over to this morning. Similar to Justin, my back condition has been deteriorating over the past year. In my case, the doctors don't know why. Being an Engineer, it is difficult not understanding the root cause of the pain.

For the sake of my family, I was determined to fight against the depression. I took 1.5 Norcos, and went swimming. At first, I could only do 1 full lap. It was so difficult that I started to cry. I relaxed for 5 minutes and said to myself I'd do one more. I pushed it and went 2.5 laps. After a few more breaks, I was up to 6 laps. Finally, I regained my inner strength, and made it to 11 laps, which is the most that I've done since before both surgeries.

This felt like such a personal win, that it helped me regain my optimistic attitude.

This is a hard war each of us are fighting. In order to make it, we must do so knowing that we will win, one battle at a time.

Happy 4th of July weekend!

-Dave

[Justin]

Dave, this is a great thread! Man, 11 laps!?! I can't even think when I've done that many (it's been so long). That is a HUGE accomplishment and I'm glad that you were able to "push through" your depressed feelings by being determined and finding your inner strength.

This is a significant milestone and I wish you the very best as you get closer to finding a "solution" to your spine issues. The SPS Family is here to support you unconditionally--we're in this together brotha'!

[KBear]

You go man! We definitely all have those days and you are right, pushing on is how we get better and keep our heads up.

[linda]

Dave,
I am so sorry for your tramatic day yesterday, but it sounds like you are going to win this war. Sometimes it takes everything I've got just to make it minute by minute through the day. I say to myself maybe tomorrow will be a little better. I know a guy that had the stimulator put in after failed surgery and was out of work for a long time. Now he is a plumbing inspector for the city. I hope each day keeps getting better for you and days of doom and gloom will be a thing of the past.
Linda

[Cindylou]

Dave, well said my friend. It is actually so good to put a name and a face on all the crazy **** that we spiney's go through before, after, or in between surgical decisions, ya know? And thank-you for saying it so well. Your honesty and vulnerability with us is so welcome and refreshing, especially for a guy. So thank-you from the bottom of my heart, and yes, please, go kick some ass, would ya?! Way to go!

[daveinaustin]

Thanks to all of you for your support and encouragement! Being in my early 40s, I can open up my feelings and vulnerabilities better than in my 20s! I'm still a dumb guy, like most. However, my intention is to show that we're all in this together.

Throughout my journey, I have noticed a substantial difference that attitude makes on people within our community (i.e., discussion forums). I'm far from perfect, and have bad days, good days, bad hours, and good hours. But, trying to look farther ahead with optimism makes a world of difference.

Thanks again to EVERYBODY for your support and encouragement, and have a Happy 4th of July!!! It's time to crack open another beer and spend time with family!

-Dave

[Justin]

However, my intention is to show that we're all in this together.

Throughout my journey, I have noticed a substantial difference that attitude makes on people within our community (i.e., discussion forums). I'm far from perfect, and have bad days, good days, bad hours, and good hours. But, trying to look farther ahead with optimism makes a world of difference.

-Dave

Dave, you hit the nail on the head. Reaching out to people in need and also having an attitude of optimism makes a huge difference in my life.

This Forum is a great way to "Pay it Forward." Thanks for being here and supporting others despite your own personal trials and pain-filled days. Your time helping those around you and here on the SPS Forum is not overlooked and much appreciated.

I remain very positive about your situation, as I know something great is around the corner.

[Gilbert P]

Hi Dave

Thanks for your thread, We must stay positive and keep pushing on as hard as it may be .

Sometimes I think giving up is the answer, and I think about my Wife and Son this keeps me to pushing on

Thanks Again

Gil

[KBear]

Dave- You inspired me to get my rear to the pool and swim. My kids love going to the pool, the older one can reach the bottom; but younger one can't. So, I usually spend my time holding her and catching them when they jump in. I had them sit on the side so I could swim a lap. I swam from one end to the other (it's an olympic size pool), and did it in 90 seconds. It wasn't bad either. I then did stretching in the pool and used my daughter as a 'weight' for some exercises. I've been really trying to do at least one active thing a day, aside from my regular stuff. We went for a walk, bike ride, swimming and today I did exercises at home.

[daveinaustin]

I'm glad to hear this thread is helping you guys! There's days where every one of us just want to curl up in our bed and give up. But, its our hope and determinism that makes a difference!

Justin, You're very welcome. Your discussion forum, intentional "lightness" in conversation, and encouragement gives hope, strength, and encouragment to many people.

KBear, congratulations! You are going in the right direction, and doing a lap in 90 seconds is awesome! Keep up the good work.

Gilbert, I'm with you. Thinking about my family is also what helps me to push forward. We have to "deal with the hand" we are given. It's best to handle it to the best we can for those we either love or look up to.

Whether or not its your family, friends, or even discussion group buddies, we all can work through this together, and root each others on!

-Dave