Disability in the Time of Covid

I’ve been on my back for six months.  (No, I’m not having a very lucrative month as a lady of the night!  Get your mind out of the gutter!)  I had a very bad femur break back on September 16 and have been recovering from that and the ensuing surgery ever since.  So as the rest of the country begins to come to stay-at-home orders, I say, “Welcome to my world!”

It’s been a tough recovery even by my standards, I have Osteogenesis Imperfecta and have had about 50 broken bones in my life and about 25 surgeries, but this one has put me through the wringer.

Now, finally, the surgeon says that I am ready to start exercising and work to walking again.  So bring on the Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist…in the middle of a pandemic.  What?!

Getting the therapy I need will mean two different people coming into my condo 2 x a week.  I am still on Dilaudid which suppresses breathing.  I have a paying roommate and a friend who is staying on my couch taking care of me who both have compromised immune and breathing issues.  We have been scrupulous about keeping others out of the house and intense about our decontamination when coming back into the house.

Of course, the people entering are healthcare workers who should be aware of the issues and working hard to keep all of us healthy.  And I know I have been immobile for 6 months, so it is crucial that I start strengthening now or I could really lose walking as an option.  But I can see the worried tightening around the eyes and mouths of my fellow pandemic quarantine-mates.  I reflect it on my face as well as a worried clenching of the stomach.

I have to do it.  I can’t even put it to a vote.  I know we will all be incredibly careful.  But I am aware that I am causing the chink in our armor. 

Do I know for sure we will be fine?  No.  Do any of us?  No.  But does it suck feeling like I am the one putting everyone at risk?  Yes, yes it does.  (Thank God they haven’t closed the liquor stores!)

Stay safe and stay connected. If you would be interested in posting on this or another topic, contact us at open.circle.dc@gmail.org or go to our Facebook page and comment

13 thoughts on “Disability in the Time of Covid


  1. As another OI person with an already compromised respiratory system, this pandemic feels like the zombie apocalypse! The longer I survive, the greater the probability that I will turn a corner one day and come face to face with a horde of lung-eating zombies (COVID-19). The anxiety is palpable.


  2. Hi Susie,
    I’m glad for this update and that you have someone with you at all times.
    Despite this virus, how all has changed, it’s important to know that you are
    starting PT. That is good news. Keep the writing going too, I hope.
    Maybe a book?
    Love, Martha


  3. Hi Susie

    Its been a stretch since I last saw you. Thank you for posting about your dilemma. Was great to read your words. I feel you and the difficulty of the choice. Sending you healing vibes.


  4. Heya i am for the first time here. I came across this board and I in finding It truly helpful & it helped me out a lot.

    I hope to offer something again and aid others such as you
    helped me.







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