atlien0255

I know this might sound crazy, but I volunteered (in the states) at a place that did "hippotherapy" (horse therapy) for both the mentally and physically disabled. Personally, I noticed the biggest difference in about 6 months with those that had spinal cord injuries--you say that you are especially weak in the hips/butt--this is exactly what horseback riding helped to rehab. Even though you might have difficulty with movement below your T12, getting on a horse a few days a week can do wonders to keeping those muscles somewhat active. I don't know if you were ever big into horseback riding (most guys aren't haha-all of my guy friends play rugby and aren't huge fans of horses) but if you have some sort of "hippotherapy" near you, give them a call. And I think it's always therapeutic to work with animals, anyway....

Regardless, best of luck with your recovery. Sounds like you've got a great group of people around you, and thats more than half the battle.

Have you ever noticed any difference with salt water? Or if you went to the beach was your skin any better?

Muscle atrophy is the worst. My experience by no means compares to yours... But I tore my acl and mcl about six months ago, had surgery four months ago. The atrophy in my quad and hamstring and calf in my injured leg was pretty absurd for quite some time, although it's slowly recovering. It's very frustrating to tell your body to do something and for it to just not respond. Congrats on everything, It's amazing what you've accomplished. Keep it up!

Atlantan here, and I completely agree. I took our airport for granted until I moved out to Montana for a bit. Atlanta is by far the easiest airport to navigate, and I've traveled all over the world.

It's also awesome being able to fly literally anywhere in the world--a lot of times with no layover--for relatively cheap. We get great deals out of ATL all the time!

Damn, you've been through some ridiculous shit. I know some of you guys get sick of hearing this (at least my infantry friends always brush it off), but thank you for your service. I sincerely mean that. And I hope that now that you're back home you're doin okay, with people who make you happy, and getting the care that you deserve. Thanks again!!