Story of gratitude and determination

Well, here is where my story begins. I started out as a patient at Missoula Bone & Joint (MBJ) 22 years ago. I had an accident that left me with a crushed right foot. I was referred to Dr. Jarrett at Missoula Bone & joint. The care I received was outstanding!
I thought to myself, this would be a great place to work. I knew MBJ was opening a surgery center, so I inquired about the job as I knew I had all the right credentials. I applied and got the job!

That is when I became a MBJ family member. I loved my new work family! I was so excited to be a part of this growing medical business and to be in on the ground floor of an outstanding comprehensive Orthopedic Care Facility. I have been so very proud of our accomplishments.
Here I am 22 yrs later, a patient once again. On January 15th of this year. I sustained a severe fracture to my right hip. I had surgery at Providence that very evening. Dr. Channer was on call (thank heavens) and promptly arrived at the hospital to rebuild me. I was in so much pain. I was ready to go to surgery and get this repaired. Dr. Channer treated me like a patient not a coworker. He was great about explaining everything to my husband and I. Such as what to expect. Being an optimist, I envisioned myself being back to work in 6 weeks. No problem! I got this.

Long story short. 5 months later. I am still recovering. Trying to get back to “normal”.

First comes the pain from the injury. Second, the pain from the surgery. Third, the emotional pain from loss of independence and socialization. Last but not least, the pain of rehabbing. Let’s not forget Physical Therapy (PT)!

When done right, PT is a part time job with benefits of getting stronger. PT gives us the confidence, tools, education and the exercises to help one gain strength. Honestly, PT helps us to rebuild our body, mind and soul together as one. So, remember when doing your therapy and you think you can’t do one more leg left, squat, lunge or whatever the exercise may be. YOU can do it!

I feel I could not have accomplished this without the wonderful care of MBJ and its incredible Physical Therapy Team! My therapist Bob Botkin inspired and encouraged me every session.

The takeaways for me from this experience are huge. Patience, compliance, hard work and a phenomenal medical team to help heal, guide, coach, and encourage me. I hope to be returning to work soon. I know I will be coming back better and stronger than ever! I‘ve gained insight, empathy and compassion for this type of injury. I have been rewarded with confidence and determination. I am forever grateful to MBJ and all my MBJ family.

Written by Maxine Williams RN, BSN

Maxine has worked as a Registered Nurse at MBJ’s surgery center for 22 years. Every patient that Maxine works with feels like they are her best friend by the end of their visit. She has so much compassion and kindness for other people. We have missed you and look forward to having your energy for life back at MBJ.

The post Story of gratitude and determination appeared first on Missoula Bone & Joint.