At my two-week checkup the surgeon
gave me permission to go back to work.
Many people were surprised about that, but I felt ecstatic. Knowing I still have a long road to be fully
recovered, I decided to go discuss this option with my boss.
I must preface this, as I would not
have entertained the idea of going back if it were a regular work week. Since I teach high school, and it was the
last week, there was a modified exam schedule.
Here was what my days actually looked like:
Monday 5/29
Memorial Day-No school
|
Tuesday 5/30
Regular Schedule
1-No class (seniors)
2-No class (seniors)
3-Planning
4-Class
5-Class
6th Exam-Planning
|
Wednesday 5/31
Period 1 exam-no class
Period 2 exam-no class
End of Year Party
|
Thursday 6/1
Period 3 exam-planning
Period 4 exam
|
Friday 6/2
Period 5 exam
Period 7 exam
|
Because of my physical therapy
schedule, I packed the OraStrech and ice packs.
None of my students knew that I was returning, and they were thrilled
that I was back.
There were many hugs,
letters of appreciation, notes, and even a necklace and rock.
A healing necklace and a "survivor" rock
It's hard to see, but it says: Ms.Phinney, Your genuine kindness and guidance has inspired me to be consistent in my efforts to better not only my work, but my willpower.
They had many questions about my “new” face
and wanted to inspect it. Many were
shocked that I don’t have a scar and my face is only slightly swollen. Since I don’t have any facial expressions, I
warned them that if I am staring at you, it means you are doing something
obnoxious.
My colleagues were also stunned at my
return. Even teachers I barely know were
happy to see me and spoke to me. Once
again, I can’t express how magnificent it is to feel loved.
Returning to work was good for the
soul. It reminded me of how grateful I am to have such fabulous colleagues and
students. I truly enjoy working with
teenagers and getting to know them, their interest, and their quirks. It’s not always easy or fun, but it is
rewarding.
Even with the modified exam schedule, it was
tough. My first day back I ached and was nauseous before I even saw my first class. Most afternoons I ended up in
bed because of the pain, but never regretted returning. Luckily, I have Gato to cuddle with and make sure I'm okay.
These three pics were taken when I wasn't feeling so well, and he had to be on me or by my side.
He noticed my right eye as soon as I met him. Even though he wasn't pleased with that, he was surprised to see how well my teeth meet now.
They are not perfect, but I no longer have an open bite
I got to visit 100+ Abandoned Dogs of the Everglades to spend time with the dogs while my parents officially adopted their Yorkie, Tiffany. I was extremely careful not to let the dogs jump on me or lick anywhere near my incisions sites.
I miss walking and spending time with the dogs
I recognize that I still have a long way to go, but am optimistic and pleased with how well my body is healing.
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