Scheduled!!

My appointment with Dr. Larson went 10000 times better than with the last surgeon. He wants to cut all four compartments, while the last surgeon only wanted to do the lateral and anterior. The success rate for having the lateral and anterior is 95%, while having all four done lowers to 60%.... But Dr. Larson's success rate is 85% which is much higher than the national average. He is also one of the most qualified in my area, doing around sixty a year. Dr. Larson made both my parents and I very comfortable so we scheduled my surgery for November 19, right after swim season.

My symptoms for compartment syndrome last longer than normal. I have swelling that lasts for days rather than hours. So Dr. Larson scheduled an MRI to make sure I don't have Popliteal Artery Entrapment syndrome.

PAES definition from the live-strong website:The popliteal artery is a small blood vessel located in the back of the knee. While rare, this artery can become compressed or entrapped by surrounding muscles and tissues. This condition can affect either one or both legs. It is most commonly found in teenage and young adult athletes, and it affects males more than females

Almost...

Swimming with CS is harder than I thought. I'm still in pain and I'm lacking motivation. My coach moved me to a slower lane to try and decrease intensity...which has left me not enjoying the sport. The good news is I get to meet with a surgeon tomorrow (finally)! I'm seeing Dr. Larson at Twin Cities Orthopedics.

Trapped

I no longer feel free, I feel trapped in my body. I can't push myself any further. Surgery is my only option. A huge risk. A huge choice.

A little motivation..

High school swimming starts tomorrow and it's quite the time commitment. I nervous and feel a little out of shape, so I need a little motivation. Leave it to Nike to lighten the mood!

Fall Fashion

I have to admit that I'm extremely excited for school to start. My favorite part, besides organizing my school supplies, is fall shopping. I love the earth tones, scarfs, boots, cropped jeans, etc. While online shopping today, I found some adorable items I want to add to my wardrobe.

Blush colored dress

Equestrian looking cardigan

Bold colored floral top

Seven colleges down... One more to go

I spent the majority of today riding in the car heading towards Iowa with my mom. Once again I'm looking at another college, this time Iowa State. I've looked at seven colleges from large division one schools to small private colleges. That may sound like a lot, but I absolutely love the college search. Actually, anything school related gets me soooo excited! I can't wait to see what Iowa has in store for me tomorrow!

It's only the Beginning

Swelling and pain in my lower legs has kept me from running for about three years now. For two and a half years I have wondered why I can't run, rollerblade, or go on long walks. Finally this April, I was diagnosed with bilateral chronic compartment syndrome.

I'm very relieved that I now have an answer, but unfortunately the answer lead to more questions. Should I get surgery? When? What doctor? I'm meeting with a surgeon on August 22nd, hopefully I'll get some answers