Despite an injury, I spent the summer living intentionally
I succeeded in not letting my broken leg define our family's summer
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At the end of June, I sustained a fall that resulted in a leg fracture. It happened while boarding the plane home from a fabulous vacation with my husband, my children, and my parents.
My son and daughter were very concerned about what, if anything, was broken. After we got home, my husband and I put them to bed before heading to the emergency room. Before saying goodnight, I repeatedly assured them that no matter what the X-rays showed — whether or not there was a break, and whether or not I’d require surgery — it would not be “the summer of Mom’s broken leg.” I wouldn’t let it define the season. A broken bone would undoubtedly change some logistics, but I promised them that when we looked back on the summer of 2026, my leg would be low on the list of memories.
More than seven weeks later, now that I no longer have to wear my removable walking cast and can start bearing weight with the assistance and advice of a physical therapist, I’ve begun evaluating how well I lived up to my promise.
I am reminded of one of my favorite poems by Ralph Waldo Emerson, in which he writes that success means “To laugh often and love much; / … To appreciate beauty; / To find the best in others; / To give of one’s self; / To leave the world a little better, / … To have played and laughed with enthusiasm / And sung with exultation.”
By that standard, I think I kept my promise.
Practicing intentionality
July and August were full of beauty, play, laughter, singing, rest, snuggles, friends, learning, family, and more. Yes, my injury affected my participation, but this summer was still a success.
It all boils down to being intentional — and the cornerstone of this is being realistic. After talking with my orthopedic doctor about recovering from a fibula spiral fracture as a wheelchair user, I adjusted my expectations for the summer based on my new reality.
I made the best of my situation, even though it wasn’t ideal. I found ways to remain independent when I could safely do so, such as when using the restroom, and humbled myself by asking for help in other situations, like getting in and out of the shower.
When my husband was out of the house, I planned meals I could make while remaining seated, and I saved meals that required carrying items to and from the outdoor grill or oven for when he was available to help.
I also kept this latest fracture relatively private. Except for my column and those who saw my removable cast in person, I intentionally kept quiet about this latest injury. I didn’t want pity, nor did I want to worry my friends and loved ones.
Not being seen as “broken” helped my mental state, reminding me that life would continue to move forward, despite my condition. I was able to keep laughing, making plans, and going about my summer.
It was a relief not to be viewed as more disadvantaged. It helped me see the light at the end of the temporary tunnel of this injury.
Practicing intentionality through this injury also helped sharpen my perspective on living with Friedreich’s ataxia. Even though my disability is not temporary, I can be just as intentional with it.
Note: Friedreich’s Ataxia News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Friedreich’s Ataxia News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Friedreich’s ataxia.
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