Dawn Melanie’s BodyBlog

I am celebrating spring 2007 a week earlier than the “official” date of the Vernal Equinox.  But, my celebration is in line with the many different walks of life celebrating a changing of seasons.

I looked at the calendar and reflected on the date, monumental to me it seems.  This weekend marks the 9^th anniversary of my diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.  How time flies when you are having “fun”J.  Nine years ago, I never dreamed that I’d be in the “best shape” of my life now…9 years subsequent to diagnosis of a chronic illness.  The illness still permeates my daily activities, but the limitations are manageable.  I realized this is far from a “death sentence”.  It is simply a call to adjust.  I have and I continue to adjust everyday to its unpredictable nature.Because of this, I want to say “Hoorah!” especially to my MS buddies here on Bodyspace demonstrating their own perseverance despite the challenge.  Go on, please take your bows. JI am celebrating another obstacle I continue to overcome – recovery of a completely torn ACL on Sept. 13, 2006.  It’s been a half year, 6 months since the sadly accidental injury that occurred 2 days before a much anticipated appearance at a national Figure show.  Since then, I have YET to lift utilizing my quad muscles in a capacity with any sort of semblance to pre-injury status.  Muscle atrophy has ruined any symmetry desired and sought in Figure competitions.  But, I’ll continue with the balancing and strengthening movements with hopes to get medical clearance within a month to restart my lower body weight lifting routine.Ooh yeah, and 3 months since my foot surgery…a “Bunionectiony”.  A success there too it seems.  I’m walking again…and can wear low heels.  Whew, just in time for the cute sandal season.  lol