Two and a half years ago might have been the worst day of my high school career. I had just signed my National Letter of intent for Division ll softball and I couldn't have been more pumped, but one winter night a group of friends and I decided it would be fun to go sledding.
As we climbed up the big hill with our toboggans, none of us were thinking we could have seriously gotten hurt. That was, until I couldn't move my leg in time as we hit the bank of the road and completely stopped. The walk all the way home with a torn ACL couldn't have gotten any worse... until I turned and tore my MCL. Nonetheless, here's an article in the effort to help those who feel like they'll never be the same.
Instead of saying "I've ruined my life," say, "Bring it on."
People do not know the pain of tearing their ACL or MCL/PCL or Meniscus until it happens to them. The constant pain of hyper-extending it is enough to not want to move. But, having faith that it does get better after surgery is what keeps you going. The journey ahead will be completely new territory so it is essential to have an open mind and a willing spirit.
The amount of braces will triple.
One brace after another, it'll feel like you just received the first one. But make it exciting. Don't let getting a new brace mean that you'll always have to wear one. For now, it is a supportive device so your knee can heal. Have fun with it! No one says you can't put your team sticker on the side or even buy an American Flag pattern. Because let me tell you, everyone loves to see athletes that show they've been through a horrible injury and still step foot on the field.
ICE, ICE, BABY!
I am telling you this is THE most important relaxation time for your rehab. It may not be as important as moving your joint to break down the scar tissue after surgery but it is necessary in order for the swelling to go down. This task can get over-looked so easily during your day but it shouldn't. Make it a time where you can watch some episodes while timing 20 minutes on - 20 minutes off.
Never, ever think that going to rehab is enough work.
I wouldn't have been able to get back into my catchers position if it wasn't for PT and the extra reps at home. Athletes are supposed to stay on top of this surgery before it is too late. While you're sitting on the floor with a dog leash pulling your toes to your chest, know that it will not be wasted time. This is where the saying "hard work pays off" comes into play. Extra reps mean dedication and triumph.
Love your scars and join the community.
At first, looking at three purple lines isn't pleasant but overtime it becomes more of a conversation starter. Don't be caught up in not having flawless legs. People become curious to know what happened. It also helps knowing that there are a bunch of people with the same marks. So by using scar creme or not, I'll choose to show off my scars to other athletes who know the pain and the glory.
The girl or guy with the same brace on the other team is now a friend.
OR an opportunity to find a rival, and to be better than those who have gone through the same issues. But I'd rather look at it as a mutual understanding of their love to continue with what they've practiced for regardless of the injury. This community is worldwide, so why not embrace it?
Most importantly, don't let anyone treat you differently on the field if you know that you're giving it your all.
Yes, you may be slower. Yes, you may be limping. Yes, your brace may squeak. And yes, you may be out of shape. But you are still the same ball player. You just don't take it for granted now. Do it for yourself. Do the activities that you have worked for and use your injury as an extra push to be better. Be a role model to those who get injured around you by saying it is possible to return. It just takes time, dedication, and will power.
