I lost a month. On February 26th, I had lunch with friend Doreen in St. Peter. I asked Doreen for help with my jacket as we were leaving the restaurant as my right arm was feeling less than good. By the time I had driven the 60 miles home, I could hardly count on my right arm for steering the car. The next day my concern mounted, my mind went to the right shoulder replacement. Infections in the body of any type, including a tooth that has an infection can attack the replacement area. A trip to Urgent Care confirmed I had shingles. The blisters from the top of the shoulders to the hand were not comfortable, even to have cloth touch them.
Today, a month later, the pain that feels like hot heat radiating the length of the arm is lessening. During the days of the last month, time blurred as I had a lot of discomfort in the arm as it felt as if it was in a vice and the pressure was extreme, generally felt during the night. The headache and nausea came and went as the flu-like symptoms come right along with the shingles. I slept through many of the days and didn’t really care or relate to much. Yes, all the well meaning people who have had the shingles were not lying. It was pretty overwhelming. Normally, I have something physical to show for each day God has given me, be it the cries of dust bunnies or threads left about from a project. These last 30 days . . . squat. I am also amazed by the general body strength I have to regain. It is a good thing spring is here for some great exercise in the yard work.
I am thrilled to have this much of the shingles experience behind me. I do know that some discomfort from nerve endings can last for some time after the physical signs are gone. Prayers go up often.
Dennis did endure and I can attest to the fact that in another life he may very well have been a ballerina. His tip toe technique around the house during this last month was awesome and so appreciated.