Not again–my son, Zach, seems to have a knack for hurting himself during the holidays. Four years ago, during a New Year’s Eve Party, right at midnight, he jumped for joy in celebration. Let’s just say fireworks weren’t the only ones popping that night. I guess his left knee wanted to get in on the “popping” action, too. A doctor’s visit, and MRI a week later confirmed that Zach had torn his ACL, and would need reconstructive surgery on his knee. My son really likes to start the New Year with a bang!
So, this year, Zach was having a blast at a Christmas party. While kicking up a storm dancing the Cotton-Eyed Joe, Zach yet again heard that distinctive and all-too familiar “pop”, only this time it was coming from his right knee. I figured he wanted a matched set. As soon as he limped through the front door into the house, Zach announced, “I’ve got good news and bad news. The good news is I had a great time, and won a Marshmallow Toss contest. The bad news is I think I tore my other ACL.” Within a couple of days we were off to see the same orthopedic surgeon who’d done surgery on his left knee. As soon as Dr. Boone saw the X-rays and felt the knee, he said, “Damn, Zach, you tore the other one.” After a moment, he continued with his usual dry tone, “So, what else do you do at TU (long pause) besides bad dancing.” And, with that, everyone in the exam room, from nurses to interns, was laughing hysterically, including Zach. And, that’s one of the many reasons I’m so proud of my son. He never complains about his lot, and, unlike most people, Zach’s able to laugh at his own foibles. That, to me, is a real sign of maturity.
So, tomorrow, bright and early, we’ll be heading to the hospital for Zach’s second knee reconstruction. Please pray for us, and pray for me, especially, that I’ll learn to deal with life’s ups-and-downs with the same positive attitude as my son. Zach, never stop jumping and dancing for joy–just try to be a little more careful next time! Love, MOM
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