Let’s Chat: Chunky and cheerful

By Linda Tooth on March 5, 2025.

As I write this article I have just been released from the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital. Let me tell you my story. I have been on a self-care regimen that included going to a local facility and using the walking track before heading home. I put on my headphones and listen to some great 80s music while walking approximately 2 km. On Friday, Feb. 28, I decided to do those laps to help burn off the carbohydrate calories I incurred from my Mexico holiday.

I got out of my car just after 4 p.m. but did not even make it to the front door. I misjudged a step and down I went. Luckily my gym bag braced my left side, but unfortunately, nothing helped the right side.

I am not very tall but the momentum I have (weight really) was the deciding factor in how this played out. I knew something was not right with my right arm, I just did not know the extent of the damage.

As I was laying face down on the sidewalk a wonderful and helpful woman came to my rescue. I believe her name was Lana and she lives in Redcliff. Lana called my partner and he came to get me.

We went to the emergency room and of course it was busy, but they got me to X-ray and then into a room. When the ER doctor came in he told me my elbow took the impact of my fall and part of the elbow bone had chipped off and I would need surgery to repair it.

The surgeon came in after and confirmed what the ER doctor told me. I would need a plate and screws to secure the part that broke off. I was then admitted and had the surgery on Saturday at 6 p.m. I got out Sunday afternoon and am now struggling to figure out how to live life as a ‘leftie’.

As I am riding the pity-bus I have a friend who is not working right now, so I am employing her to be my driver as I am not allowed to drive for the next six weeks. So, no driving, I’m a ‘leftie’ and I work part-time – and if I do not work I do not get paid. So what have I learned through all this?

I’m just going to be chunky and cheerful. Forget walking as it can be detrimental to your health.

Have a Meowtastic Day and keep reading.

Linda Tooth is a part-time communications instructor at Medicine Hat College

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