Tameletah's Story
What was life like before joint replacement?
I was on crutches for several months before I could get surgery. I couldn’t do much of anything on my own and had severe pain. I had my right knee replaced in 2010 and my left in September 2015.
What was the turning point for you?
My turning point was when I could no longer live an active life with my family, specifically when my 4-year-old grandson was sad because Maw could not take him to parks or the beach or participate in other activities we would normally do. This broke my heart, and I could tell it broke his, too, since we were inseparable.
What is life like now?
It is a blessing to walk. Last week, I decided it was time for a short beach walk with my grandson. Although it was a workout, I was so grateful to imagine the future.
What advice do you have for others considering joint replacement?
I have some tolerance for pain, so I waited until I had to do it. Recovery seems slow at first, but you have to let the knee heal inside and out. Lots of ice, which is no fun but is very effective in the healing process. Rehab can be painful, but if you have someone looking out for you, it helps. Therapy can seem harsh, but in my experience, you get out of it what you put in. No pain, no gain, at least for a few weeks. I had three weeks of therapy three times a day and finished with a 130-degree bend. Now I am on my own, still recovering, but I look forward to the future.
