A quick update to my post-accident life: in October my primary care doctor referred me to the Physical Medicine department to address the chronic pain in my back and ankles. That doctor gently made it clear that my future was that of a disabled person. She showed me and Dave my most recent spinal X-ray and explained the permanent damage the fractures had caused. This is the source of the back pain and it’s not likely to improve. The ankle and foot pain is ever present as arthritis gets a foothold (pun intended) and I still depend on a wheeled walker for balance and support.
Long story short: yesterday I submitted my retirement notice to the school district after getting the word that my application for disability retirement had been approved. I’m on an emotional roller coaster as I grieve the loss of my career in such a sudden way. I had planned to teach another 4-5 years then bring my teaching career in for a gentle, well-planned landing. The accident changed all that, and I’m getting used to the idea that assistive devices for walking, preferential parking, and unexpectedly early retirement are part of my life now.
All is not doom and gloom, though; I’m looking forward to whatever life has to offer a girl with wonky feet, a weak back, and some time on her hands. We have already started making plans to raise chickens in the spring, and I’m finding that I have more interests and talents than just music teaching.
I will miss my students so very much. It was my honor and privilege to have a career I loved for nearly 30 years. Anyone still reading this, I wish you well.
