I have made a break through in my recovery from a broken hip, followed by two surgeries and nearly five months of physical therapy.

Three weeks after undergoing hip replacement surgery on July 7, I parked my walker and cane and started walking without assistance. What a relief it was to discover that I could once again do simple chores such as taking out the trash and picking up the mail.

Little did I realize at the beginning that being limited to the use of one leg would have such drastic consequences. The hardest part was realizing that I would have to undergo many hours of therapy to rebuild lost muscle and balance and learn how to walk again.

I quickly learned that you’re almost helpless with only one good leg. I’m thankful that I had my wife Geanell by my side as a primary caregiver. Simple things like bathing and changing clothes were impossible early on without her help.

Holding up during this difficult time was made possible by my Christian faith and the encouragement and prayers of my family, friends and co-workers. There have been days when a get well card, phone call or visit of a friend has lifted my spirit and helped me see the light at the end of the tunnel.

While I am progressing each day, I still have a way to go before being released from my surgeon. I very much look forward to the time when I can return to work and resume my daily three-mile walks.

Clif Knight is a staff writer for the Hartselle Enquirer.