January 17th, 2024

he holiday season is now behind me. New Year’s Eve passed quietly, despite the countless fireworks that lit up the sky throughout the night. My thoughts went out to the animals, who are often terrified by these loud bangs.

I also spent some time writing and sending thank-you cards for all the condolence messages I received following the death of my godmother.

As my appointment with the surgeon on 10 January approached, I found myself growing impatient and a bit restless. I was nervous and somewhat irritable, especially since the appointment was scheduled around the same time of day when, eight months earlier, I had my accident in Morocco.

After a few X-rays, Dr Flückiger greeted me with a smile, a good omen! He showed me the images and confirmed that everything was perfectly aligned and that the healing was progressing well. However, due to the numerous holes left in my bones by the eight screws from my initial operations and the three fixations placed in Morocco, he preferred to be on the side of caution. He therefore prescribed that I keep the cast on for another four weeks.

These bone holes are healing but temporarily weaken the rigidity of the bones, hence the precaution. It wasn’t exactly the news I was hoping for, but I completely understand the prudence. I have to wear the cast all day, at night no cast, but along with a compression stocking which actually helps me sleep better. After eight months of immobilisation, I can certainly manage one more month!

I received a new cast, applied by a nurse I’ve come to know quite well. We chatted about our travels and adventures. Since we had some time, he even offered to make a second cast as a demonstration model for other patients. Many people don’t realise that modern casts are no longer made from traditional plaster but from synthetic materials. These are strips moistened and hardened quickly, very light yet stable. This technology also allows the cast to be opened like a shell, making hygiene easier and avoiding the unbearable itching that classic plaster casts cause.

I also returned my scooter, my faithful companion these past few months. I now get around with one or two crutches, depending on the distance.

Finally, I received my COVID-19 booster shot, recommended for those over 65. The vaccination took place in the new building of Bern’s Insel Hospital. I felt a little groggy afterward but had no other notable symptoms.

So, I continue to take my recovery one day at a time!