06/01/2026
Just wanted to give everyone an update on what’s been going on.
The surgery went well, but I still haven’t been able to return to work. Recovery has been a slow process, and honestly, it’s been frustrating. Every time I feel like I’m taking a step forward, it seems like I end up taking two steps back.
I was hoping to return to work this week, but I don’t think I’m there yet, and Karen agrees that I shouldn’t rush it.
Last Wednesday, I met with my surgeon and was finally cleared to come out of the ortho boot. I’m now walking with an ankle brace. The day before that appointment, I actually ended up in the ER because of the pain I was experiencing in my leg. To give you an idea, the pain I deal with constantly is around an 8.5 out of 10 — a burning, aching pain that never really lets up.
The doctors prescribed muscle relaxers because much of the pain is coming from my calf muscle and lower leg. Most of my life I’ve had strong legs, so not being able to flex my calf muscle or feel much strength there is a strange and humbling experience.
Now that I’m out of the boot, I have to be extremely careful. A rolled ankle or bad fall right now could cause long-term damage. I’m walking slowly and cautiously, doing everything I can to protect it until my ankle is fully healed.
I appreciate everyone’s prayers, support, messages, and patience during this process. Recovery is taking longer than I hoped, but I’m trusting the process and taking it one day at a time.
-David
Couple photos from our son’s Infantry graduation two weeks ago.
