Last Wednesday, I met with my surgeon to review the details of my upcoming knee surgery. I’m now fully prepared and ready to move forward.
When he saw me, the surgeon reminded me of something important: this isn’t a problem I can fix on my own. As someone who likes to take matters into my own hands and work through challenges independently, that wasn’t easy to hear—but he’s right. This knee needs surgical intervention so I can finally walk without a limp and return to normal movement.
After surgery, I’ll be committed to three months of physical therapy, and it will be intensive. That said, my mindset is simple: I’ve got this. He was also very pleased that I’ve already been doing pre-surgery physical therapy. The stronger and more prepared the knee is beforehand, the smoother the recovery should be afterward.
For post-surgical pain management, we discussed an option I feel very good about. Instead of opioids, I’ll be using a newer non-opioid medication called JOURNAVX. This non-addictive treatment works by blocking pain signals from traveling from the nerves to the brain. Given my concerns about opioid use, this feels like a great alternative.
Nutrition was another important part of the conversation. I know protein can be a sensitive topic within the whole-food, plant-based community, but my doctor emphasized the importance of adequate protein for healing and recovery. To be on the safe side, I purchased a high-quality vegan protein powder. I plan to continue eating a healthy, whole-food, plant-based diet and will also prepare meals ahead of time so recovery is as smooth as possible.
Most of all, I’m looking forward to putting this knee injury behind me. I can’t wait to move freely again—and eventually get back to exercising without limitations.
A Mindset for Recovery
If there’s one thing this journey has reinforced, it’s this: preparation and attitude matter.
I’m focusing on what I can control—strengthening beforehand, fueling my body well, following my physical therapy plan, and staying positive. Surgery is just one step. The real progress comes from the work, consistency, and patience that follow.
If you’re facing a similar procedure, know this: your body is incredibly resilient. Give it the support it needs, trust the process, and take recovery one day at a time.
I’m ready for this next chapter—and even more ready for the day I can walk, move, and exercise without pain again.