December 19, 2003 - I don't usually write a Christmas letter but 2003 has been an eventful year.  Not everyone is aware of my situation and those who are might like to know how I am progressing..  The first half of the year was normal.  I finished the 2002-2003 bowling with a 187 average (not quite the 190 I was shooting for, but acceptable).  My golf game had been in a slump during the previous year but was coming back.

Then, in July, I experienced some weakness and reduced coordination in my left leg and ankle.  The MRI showed a chip, presumably broken from a disk, pressing on the nerves.  The neurosurgeon performed what should have been a simple operation to remove the chip, however, the incision bled into the site of the operation and the blood clots compressed the nerves.  The surgeon went in again and cleaned it out but, by then I could hardly move anything below the waist, on either side.

I ended up spending about three weeks in the hospital (about a week longer than I should have because I developed a bladder infection.)  I received some physical therapy in the hospital and could almost stand for short periods by the time I was transferred to the Washington County Rehab Center in Hagerstown.  After three weeks there, I came home using a walker.  Now, after three months of outpatient therapy, I am walking around my condo without assistance and using a cane outside.  I still have some weakness on the left side and my balance is not perfect, but Del and I played nine holes of golf two weeks ago.  I restricted my follow through on the full shots, so I couldn't hit quite as far as usual, but I played the ladies' tees.  I used my cane when I had to walk any distance to get to the ball then put it down to make the shot.  We've been trying to get out again but the weather hasn't cooperated.

Because of the balance problem, I am not quite ready to start bowling yet.  I've been practicing the final steps and delivery of the ball in therapy but I still need some support to keep from falling over to the left after finishing the stroke.  I hope to be able to start practicing in January.  Eventually, this frustating experience will be over.  I know that some of those reading this letter have endured equally frustating or worse experiences.  I hope they will pass quickly.  Along the way, I have received a lot of support from family and friends, in particular, my special friend, Del; my son, Paul; and my daughter, Pat, who did so many of the things I couldn't do for myself while I was hospitalized and after I got home.