6 Months Post-Op: Slow Progress, Steady Mind

Six months out from my second ACL surgery, and my doctor says I’m doing pretty well. Objectively, everything is going according to plan — but if I’m honest, it doesn’t feel that way. I still need support going down stairs, and I haven’t dared to jog or do anything that involves quick stop-and-go movements. I’m way too nervous about reinjury. There’s just no way I could face doing this a third time.

So, I’m choosing slow progress over setbacks. Strength over speed. I’d rather build my foundation right than rush into something I’ll regret later.

Now that cold weather is settling in, my knee has become a bit of a barometer. Is this who I am now — the person whose knee predicts the weather? Maybe so. But even on the achy days, I’m pushing myself to get out for daily walks with the pup. Honestly, it’s as much for my mind as it is for my body. There’s something grounding about getting outside, even when the air bites back.

On the health front, I’ve been doing intermittent fasting. I’m down about 15 pounds, though I’ve hit a bit of a plateau. I’ll admit I haven’t been super strict with what I’m eating, but I’m making small, intentional changes every week.

More than anything, I want to come out of this better than I was before surgery — stronger, more disciplined, more me. Daily discipline is the key, and it’s something I still struggle with. But every day I get up and try again, I’m building a little more grit, a little more grace, and a stronger version of myself — one slow, deliberate step at a time.