Note: Dan is paraphrasing excerpts from Liz’s ride journal.
It was a sad day to see my bike get hoisted up and strapped on top of the van. My right knee is badly swollen and walking is very painful – not a chance I can make it on the bike. I know I’m out for at least a few days until the swelling goes down. My next days are going to be keeping my knee elevated, iced on a schedule, and minimizing my walking.
The van traveled much of the same road as the cyclists so I got to see the same sights – and I got a chance to take a few nice photos. Being in the van changed my experience – I became a navigator. I also did more shopping and errands as that’s what the van does. I got to know our two leaders much better as you might expect while spending the better part of the day driving around with them.
Logistically, not cycling did not change the daily routine – I still had to operate on the same schedule. Tents had to be put up, personal devices like computers and phones needed charging, appetizers and dinner always started at 5:30, map review at 7, and morning coffee was always served at 6:30 am. Additionally I was trying to be very good with the icing, elevation, etc. to try and get my knee recovered ASAP. It was somewhat busy even without the ride. This was the routine from Saturday through Wednesday.
Wednesday we arrived into Old Forge, NY. Dan was meeting me there since Thursday was our next “zero day”. My knee had improved but progress had been slow. I made an appointment for Thursday morning with the nearest sports orthopedic doctor in Rome, NY – about an hour away. After xrays and a very thorough exam, the doctor determined that there was no permanent damage. The issue is arthritis which was not happy with the millions of revolutions it took to cover the 335 miles — made worse by the slow spinning up the 20,000 feet of climb. He prescribed more of the same – ice, elevation, compression, etc. but added 2400mg of Ibuprofen a day and a big shot of cortisone. The doc thought the cortisone would last through the ride – but we’ll see. I’m expecting to start riding the bike again within a few days! Yeah!!!
I got a chance to optimize my gear – send some things back with Dan as well as add a few items. Laundry got done. The tent and all the gear had to be dried out from the days of packing up wet. Thirty-six hours after arriving in Old Forge it was time to leave. Dan snapped another group photo before the group departed for the next stop. And for at least another few days – my bike is riding on top of the van.
Sad to hear your bike is featured on top of the van! But happy you got some good knee medical advice……just what I thought you needed!! You’re doing all the right things, and I know your knee appreciates that! Much love, Rene
Liz I’m rooting for you. The cortisone shots are a beautiful thing. Xoxo
I love you tons, Liz!!! This venture you are on is more than the actual bike ride. Your determination and perseverance are no surprise, as they are just two of the qualities I admire about you. I’m sending all the positive juju I can to support your healing and return to the saddle you love!!!
Your perseverance is amazing! Sending good vibes that the cortisone works its magic.
So sorry to hear about your knee! But you are a trooper in your perseverance is something to behold! Here’s hoping that you’re back on the bike soon
Yes, let that cortisone work before you start back. Louise loves her some cortisone too.😅
So glad you were able to access the medical care you need!! Here’s to better days, back on the bike!
Auntie Lizzy! You are amazing! Sorry about the knee but boy are you an inspiration! Go girl! Sending you lots of love and support on this incredible journey! Team Grainger LA 🙂 xx
Hi Elizabeth, just reading this. So sorry for the pain and discomfort. Hope the ice and shot do the trick.