At Last, Some Good News!
I saw my orthopedist, Dr. Morrison, and he had wonderful news for me. I don't have to have a knee replacement any time soon. He still wants to postpone it as long as humanly possible (as in years). I got a cortisone shot in the knee to reduce the inflammation, and he'll see me again in 5 weeks. If it's not significantly improved he's got another injectable he would like to try. He's pretty confident he can get me back walking and not in much pain without surgery, and is determined to try everything possible before resorting to the knife. He even gave me a box of Vioxx samples (anti-inflammatory/pain reliever for arthritis), as well as a flyer for a program that might let me get some of my prescription drugs for free.

Not just a good doctor, but a good person.

I'm not quite in shape to do the happy dance, but it's a huge relief. I was worried about the possible (probable) cost, but even more I was dreading the recovery. I've done it before, but then I had a decent income, health insurance and sick time -- and it was still as close to Hell as I want to get on this earth. I'm thrilled to be able to postpone the misery, pain and inconvenience.

I'm still going ahead with the plan to get the condo cleared out/cleaned up so that I can sell it and buy a single story house, but now I don't feel such incredible pressure.

Let's hear it for good news!