Time for celebration.
Went to the doc today with my PT. They had a nice conversation about my treatment.
I told the doc about my transfer effective the 30th and he was pleased with my decision. I flat out told him that I didn’t know how long it would be before I hit 100% again and I didn’t feel I could protect my team, the public or adequately defend myself in a patrol position until then. He agreed with me saying it would be a long time before I would be ready for the daily rigors of patrol.
So I asked him about some hyperbaric treatments. He said they are good but he didn’t think it would benefit me in this case. So I ask about diving. After a short conversation he agreed and said; “GO DO SOME DIVE TESTS, DO THEM SHALLOW AT FIRST AND WITH SOMEONE YOU HAVE TOTAL TRUST IN”. He told me to take it slow because he didn’t know how the nerves in my arm were going to react to the pressure. He also added that I have help getting suited; do not throw the tanks over my head and for someone to hold my weight belt while I fasten it. I’ll go along with that.
So my LIGHT DUTY slip now says I’m restricted to lifting 20 pounds with my left arm once in a while, GO DIVING and I can work regular hours.
I don’t see the doc for 10 days but I have to call him every 3 days and report in. My PT is up to 3 times a week for how ever long.
Did I mention I can go DIVING? That works out great because we are doing a wreck dive on the 27th for team training and then going over to the chambers after words for a tour.
After being dry for nearly 4 months I just might have one of those things that make you feel real good.
Gary (soon to be wet) D.