Waiting for the Doc
Thank you to all of you that prayed for me and even for those of you that didn't. I went to the doctor this morning and it Coulda Been A Heckuva Lot Worse (Life)
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
The Judges Score It 8 - 8.5 - 7.5 - 8 - 7.5
The results are in. It's not a perfect 10, but I didn't crash and burn either.
Thank you to all of you that prayed for me and even for those of you that didn't. I went to the doctor this morning and it Coulda Been A Heckuva Lot Worse (Life)
Thank you to all of you that prayed for me and even for those of you that didn't. I went to the doctor this morning and it Coulda Been A Heckuva Lot Worse (Life)
Coulda Been A Heckuva Lot Worse
The good news: No surgery!
The bad news: Partial tear confirmed, 3-6 weeks in a cast, out at least four months.
I met with the Orthopedist this morning and got the word; surgery not required but get ready for a long Spring. Could of been worse. The final diagnosis is that I have a partial tear in my left achilles tendon, but there's enough still attached to expect a reasonable chance of a near-full recovery. "90% use" anyway. I'll take it.
My man, Ivan, keeping it light (watch the toes, dude!)
This injury didn't come as a complete surprise. Last year I had to turn back at the top of Palmer Snowfield on Hood due to intense pain in my leg (Jess went on to summit solo. Humpf. Stinkin' kid). Later in the year I spent two self imposed weeks on the shelf when I overworked my achilles while training for the Portland Marathon. Naturally, I didn't consider these episodes injuries. I merely chalked it up to the price I had to pay in order to reach my specific goals. It comes with the territory. However, soreness is one thing, while a tear is definitely another. I knew as soon as it happened that this was the latter.
On the positive side, my entire body probably needs a break anyway. I fell like the staff at Kaiser Permanente knows what they're doing, so my outlook is good. I work with a young lady that is making some major changes in her life, and it's inspiring. Her mantra - it's not what happens to you that matters, it's how you handle it - seems apropos in my case as well. Right now I'm just trying to handle the thought of crutches for the next six weeks.
Finally, since we're on the subject of cliches and famous sayings, how about this one from the Chinese philosopher Lao-tzu: "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
Hmm. As soon as I'm cleared to take a single step, my journey to recovery will begin.
The bad news: Partial tear confirmed, 3-6 weeks in a cast, out at least four months.
Hey, it's not a rupture
I met with the Orthopedist this morning and got the word; surgery not required but get ready for a long Spring. Could of been worse. The final diagnosis is that I have a partial tear in my left achilles tendon, but there's enough still attached to expect a reasonable chance of a near-full recovery. "90% use" anyway. I'll take it.
This injury didn't come as a complete surprise. Last year I had to turn back at the top of Palmer Snowfield on Hood due to intense pain in my leg (Jess went on to summit solo. Humpf. Stinkin' kid). Later in the year I spent two self imposed weeks on the shelf when I overworked my achilles while training for the Portland Marathon. Naturally, I didn't consider these episodes injuries. I merely chalked it up to the price I had to pay in order to reach my specific goals. It comes with the territory. However, soreness is one thing, while a tear is definitely another. I knew as soon as it happened that this was the latter.
Purple, naturally. Now if I could just find a gold sock....
On the positive side, my entire body probably needs a break anyway. I fell like the staff at Kaiser Permanente knows what they're doing, so my outlook is good. I work with a young lady that is making some major changes in her life, and it's inspiring. Her mantra - it's not what happens to you that matters, it's how you handle it - seems apropos in my case as well. Right now I'm just trying to handle the thought of crutches for the next six weeks.
Ivan The (not so) Horrible
Finally, since we're on the subject of cliches and famous sayings, how about this one from the Chinese philosopher Lao-tzu: "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
Hmm. As soon as I'm cleared to take a single step, my journey to recovery will begin.
Was there ever any doubt?
Monday, February 22, 2010
Dawg Days of Winter
It had the makings of a perfect Seattle weekend; great weather, extra time to visit family, and tickets to two Washington Huskies basketball games.
If only it would have ended like it started! Unfortunately, in the near future anyway, I think my "LIFE" section is going to get more action than my "CLIMBING" sections. Find out why here:
Great Start, Bad Middle, Outcome TBD
To be continued.....
Great Start, Bad Middle, Outcome TBD
To be continued.....
Great Start, Bad Middle, Outcome TBD
What started out as a promising long weekend in Seattle, ultimately turned into an unexpected not-so-promising setback.
First I have to thank my nephew, Matt, (UW basketball manager) for an awesome trip to U-Dub last Saturday. I love the Huskies! Meeting all the basketball players, hanging out in the players' lounge, walking out the tunnel leading to the football stadium, checking out the National Championship Football Trophy -- all very cool experiences. I was in "Husky Heaven", and had no idea of the events forthcoming.
National Championship Trophy
It all started during the pre-game shoot-around Saturday afternoon. While Matt was off doing his managerial duties, I grabbed a seat down near the floor of Hec Ed Pavilion and watched head coach Lorenzo Romar and his assistants put the players through the paces. It brought back great memories of my days as a college basketball player (albeit on a much smaller scale). I was getting pumped. In only a few hours, I'd be watching the guys from the second row, right behind the visitors' bench, as they put their lessons to the test against UCLA in a nationally televised game on ESPN.
After most of the players left the floor, I asked Matt if we could take a few shots. After all, Justin Holiday (starting Husky forward and brother of Jrue Holiday, NBA rookie) was still shooting around at one end, and the other end was free. Plus, this is Hec Ed!
At this point, I'm liking my chances
"As long as we're not here all afternoon I guess it's ok," he replied. Good man. "I only need a quick second to drain a 'tre' (a shot from beyond the three point arch) and we're outa here". Little did I know there would be nothing quick about it. First shot, "Clang!" Second shot, "Clang!" Did I mention I was a three point specialist in college? The excuses were already starting. "Dang, Matt, I guess I need to warm up," I whispered. After shooting a free throw I grabbed the ball and shot from the wing. Again, "Clang!" Ugh!
Curiously, there was a university administrator sitting on the visitors bench watching me with a big smile on her face. She was obviously enjoying my pitiful display. I walked over to her and gave her a big confident grin (just like I used to do when I could actually play this game) and picked up the loose ball.
"Ok," I told her, "This is it. Hero or zero. One more shot to live the dream. One more or that's it." "Do it!" she said with a laugh. I took the ball to the deep corner of the baseline, squared up, and let fly the most perfect 25 ft jumper of my career. Suddenly, "Snap!" "Aaarrrrgh!" I shouted. It felt like that lady hit me on the back of my leg with a leather strap. "Hey, lady!", I squawked. I turned around and realized she was several feet away from me, and by the look on her face that things weren't good. I tried to take a step and realized that the "Snap" I heard was my achilles tendon going for a ride.
Really? I'm going to injure myself on this floor? Right here? Right now? Shooting baskets? Are you kidding me? Sigh.
Four hours later, the ER doc finally checks me out. The initial diagnosis is a partial tear, to what extent she didn't know. Maybe surgery. Definitely rehab. She applied a 3/4 leg splint, threw a pair of crutches at me, some Vicodin, and I was on my way. By on my way, I mean the five hour drive back to Salem. No game. No dinner. No ESPN. Just me and my aching leg.
Thanks, Sis, Christopher, and Dad for hanging out at the Steven's Hospital ER. Thank you, my dear wife, for taking care of me all day Sunday. You made a big difference the past two days.
I see the orthopedist tomorrow morning (Tuesday). Here's hoping I won't be on the shelf for the next twelve months.
That, and I made my free throw. Which is nice.
First I have to thank my nephew, Matt, (UW basketball manager) for an awesome trip to U-Dub last Saturday. I love the Huskies! Meeting all the basketball players, hanging out in the players' lounge, walking out the tunnel leading to the football stadium, checking out the National Championship Football Trophy -- all very cool experiences. I was in "Husky Heaven", and had no idea of the events forthcoming.
National Championship Trophy
It all started during the pre-game shoot-around Saturday afternoon. While Matt was off doing his managerial duties, I grabbed a seat down near the floor of Hec Ed Pavilion and watched head coach Lorenzo Romar and his assistants put the players through the paces. It brought back great memories of my days as a college basketball player (albeit on a much smaller scale). I was getting pumped. In only a few hours, I'd be watching the guys from the second row, right behind the visitors' bench, as they put their lessons to the test against UCLA in a nationally televised game on ESPN.
After most of the players left the floor, I asked Matt if we could take a few shots. After all, Justin Holiday (starting Husky forward and brother of Jrue Holiday, NBA rookie) was still shooting around at one end, and the other end was free. Plus, this is Hec Ed!
Feelin' the flow in Hec Edmundson Pavilion
At this point, I'm liking my chances
"As long as we're not here all afternoon I guess it's ok," he replied. Good man. "I only need a quick second to drain a 'tre' (a shot from beyond the three point arch) and we're outa here". Little did I know there would be nothing quick about it. First shot, "Clang!" Second shot, "Clang!" Did I mention I was a three point specialist in college? The excuses were already starting. "Dang, Matt, I guess I need to warm up," I whispered. After shooting a free throw I grabbed the ball and shot from the wing. Again, "Clang!" Ugh!
Curiously, there was a university administrator sitting on the visitors bench watching me with a big smile on her face. She was obviously enjoying my pitiful display. I walked over to her and gave her a big confident grin (just like I used to do when I could actually play this game) and picked up the loose ball.
"Ok," I told her, "This is it. Hero or zero. One more shot to live the dream. One more or that's it." "Do it!" she said with a laugh. I took the ball to the deep corner of the baseline, squared up, and let fly the most perfect 25 ft jumper of my career. Suddenly, "Snap!" "Aaarrrrgh!" I shouted. It felt like that lady hit me on the back of my leg with a leather strap. "Hey, lady!", I squawked. I turned around and realized she was several feet away from me, and by the look on her face that things weren't good. I tried to take a step and realized that the "Snap" I heard was my achilles tendon going for a ride.
Really? I'm going to injure myself on this floor? Right here? Right now? Shooting baskets? Are you kidding me? Sigh.
Four hours later, the ER doc finally checks me out. The initial diagnosis is a partial tear, to what extent she didn't know. Maybe surgery. Definitely rehab. She applied a 3/4 leg splint, threw a pair of crutches at me, some Vicodin, and I was on my way. By on my way, I mean the five hour drive back to Salem. No game. No dinner. No ESPN. Just me and my aching leg.
Me and my leg
Thanks, Sis, Christopher, and Dad for hanging out at the Steven's Hospital ER. Thank you, my dear wife, for taking care of me all day Sunday. You made a big difference the past two days.
Sitting pretty? Not.
I see the orthopedist tomorrow morning (Tuesday). Here's hoping I won't be on the shelf for the next twelve months.
As a side note, I told Matt he could give my tickets to Quincy Pondexter, the sole Husky senior that was playing his last home game before entering the NBA draft (expected to be a first round pick). On my way home, I was listening to his post game interview, and the radio announcer asked Quincy what was the most memorable part of his final home game experience. Without hesitation he replied, "Not only did my mom and dad get to see me in my final game, it turned out my brother and sister got to come too." Since those were my tickets, I had to smile to myself knowing that in the greater scope of things, I may have missed out on the largest margin of victory any Husky team has ever hung on UCLA (97-68), but for the Pondexter family, the memories of Quincy's final game will last a lifetime.
That, and I made my free throw. Which is nice.
Monday, February 15, 2010
2010 Climb Schedule - First Two Climbs
It's that time of year again -- climbing season is fast approaching! Although these two climbs have been on the Chemeketan Climb Schedule for awhile now, I've added the climb details to my blog.
My first two climbs are the Mt Saint Helens "Retro Climb" and Sahale Peak. Check out the climb prospectus, pictures, and current climb rosters here: Climb Schedule 2010
See you on the mountain!
My first two climbs are the Mt Saint Helens "Retro Climb" and Sahale Peak. Check out the climb prospectus, pictures, and current climb rosters here: Climb Schedule 2010
See you on the mountain!
Climb Schedule 2010
Chemeketan Climb Schedule (scroll down for details):
1. Mt St Helens "Retro Climb" - April 17-18, 2010
2. Sahale Peak - July 17-18, 2010
1. Mt Saint Helens "Retro Climb", Worm Flows - April 17-18, 2010
So, exactly what is a Retro Climb? What do I wear? Do I need anything special? These questions and more are answered here: FAQ's
Our plan is to head up Saturday morning, grab our permits, and start our approach to our eventual snow camp near treeline. We'll hang out in our retro gear, eat dinner together, tell lies, and make fun of all the other climbers in their fancy $450 Gortex shells. The next day it's up early, climbing together until we reach the crater rim, and then onto the summit. After numerous self-indulging photos we'll start the long glissade back to treeline. You'll be home by sunset! (prospectus)
Brad Pitt models retro garb, Chemeketan style
Current Climb Team:
1. John Petrie, Leader
2. Gloria Petrie
3. Matt VanCampen
4. Andrea VanCampen
5. Jade Ajani
6. Travis Klaas
7. John Coyier
8. Joanna Picchi
9. Aaron Smith
10.
11.
12.
Additional Retro Climb Recon:
What to Wear - Historic Climbing Photos
Mt. St Helens Weather - NOAA Pinpoint
Route description - Summit Post
Additional Info - USFS Climbing Page
2. Sahale Peak, Sahale Glacier - July 17-18, 2010
Sahale Peak from Cascade Pass
Sahale Peak is a special mountain. Not only is the view from the summit absolutely breathtaking, it rests in the heart of the North Cascades National Park. In other words, it's peak after peak as far as you can see. One visit to this area and you'll wonder why you ever climbed anywhere else. Sahale lies in a permit zone, so the team is limited to eight members. (prospectus)
Current Climb Team:
1. John Petrie, Leader
2. Gloria Petrie
3. Amy Palacios
4. Jess Palacios
5. Jade Ajani
6. Mike McHugh
7. Joanna Picchi
8. John Coyier
Alternates on file
Additional Sahale Peak Recon:
Sahale Peak Weather - NOAA Pinpoint
Route description - Summit Post
Additional Info - NPS Cascade Pass/Sahale Arm
More climbs to come......
1. Mt St Helens "Retro Climb" - April 17-18, 2010
2. Sahale Peak - July 17-18, 2010
1. Mt Saint Helens "Retro Climb", Worm Flows - April 17-18, 2010
The view into the Mt Saint Helens crater.
(Chuck Bennett image)Grab your woolen knickers and alpenstocks and prepare to embrace traditional mountaineering! This non-technical climb provides the perfect setting for our adventure, complete with marvelous crater views and world class glissades. Mix in an early season snow camp and you've got the makings for a great weekend!
So, exactly what is a Retro Climb? What do I wear? Do I need anything special? These questions and more are answered here: FAQ's
Gloria goes old school
Our plan is to head up Saturday morning, grab our permits, and start our approach to our eventual snow camp near treeline. We'll hang out in our retro gear, eat dinner together, tell lies, and make fun of all the other climbers in their fancy $450 Gortex shells. The next day it's up early, climbing together until we reach the crater rim, and then onto the summit. After numerous self-indulging photos we'll start the long glissade back to treeline. You'll be home by sunset! (prospectus)
Brad Pitt models retro garb, Chemeketan style
Current Climb Team:
1. John Petrie, Leader
2. Gloria Petrie
3. Matt VanCampen
4. Andrea VanCampen
5. Jade Ajani
6. Travis Klaas
7. John Coyier
8. Joanna Picchi
9. Aaron Smith
10.
11.
12.
Additional Retro Climb Recon:
What to Wear - Historic Climbing Photos
Mt. St Helens Weather - NOAA Pinpoint
Route description - Summit Post
Additional Info - USFS Climbing Page
2. Sahale Peak, Sahale Glacier - July 17-18, 2010
Sahale Peak from Cascade Pass
Sahale Peak is a special mountain. Not only is the view from the summit absolutely breathtaking, it rests in the heart of the North Cascades National Park. In other words, it's peak after peak as far as you can see. One visit to this area and you'll wonder why you ever climbed anywhere else. Sahale lies in a permit zone, so the team is limited to eight members. (prospectus)
Current Climb Team:
1. John Petrie, Leader
2. Gloria Petrie
3. Amy Palacios
4. Jess Palacios
5. Jade Ajani
6. Mike McHugh
7. Joanna Picchi
8. John Coyier
Alternates on file
Additional Sahale Peak Recon:
Sahale Peak Weather - NOAA Pinpoint
Route description - Summit Post
Additional Info - NPS Cascade Pass/Sahale Arm
More climbs to come......
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