Rising Above Pain: Reclaiming Life
Arthritis and osteoporosis have been my uninvited companions for most of my adult life. Over the years, I’ve mastered the art of pushing through pain—golfing, working out with a personal trainer, and even strutting around in 4-inch heels like I had something to prove (and let’s be honest, I probably did). But when the burning, throbbing waves of pain started stopping me in my tracks, I knew it was time to take action.
I wanted this surgery for many reasons: to regain my freedom, to live pain-free, and, let’s be real, to keep up with my energetic nephew Benny. That kid doesn’t stop, and I need to match his pace; he keeps me young! And of course, there’s another motivation: being ready for whatever glamorous red carpet events might be in my near future. (Getting Lost, anyone? Stay tuned!)
Like many Canadians, I faced a frustrating dilemma when I decided to pursue knee replacement surgery. Alberta’s wait times for the procedure are staggering, averaging nearly three years. I knew I couldn’t spend another day in pain, let alone years. While it’s heartbreaking that so many in our country are forced to wait or even travel internationally for timely care, I opted for a different route. I went to Montreal and booked with a private clinic. The decision wasn’t easy, but I knew it was the right one for me.
The clinic I chose? Let’s just say their hiring criteria seem to include good looks, as every doctor could have moonlighted as a model. I joked that their “charm” almost made me look forward to surgery. A day after the procedure, my surgeon, Dr. Martin Lavigne, stopped by my room with an unexpected observation.
“Did you know you have osteoporosis?”
“Of course,” I replied, wondering why this was coming up again.
“Well,” he said with a grin, “it worked in your favor. Your kneecap was basically mush—we just scooped it out!” It wasn’t exactly comforting, but it made me laugh.
Recovery has been its own adventure. While most people rest and take it slow, I was walking, driving, and doing light exercises within days. When I did take a break, I indulged in marathon binge sessions of The Resident. Six seasons, 107 episodes, and a lot of popcorn later, I felt oddly accomplished. As part of my post-surgery reset, I treated myself to sugar-free pudding topped with sugar-free whipped cream—it was the perfect comfort food for those quiet recovery moments.
Now, months post-surgery, I’m back in the swing of things: physio, gym sessions, riding a stationary bike, and walking. The most frustrating part has been bending my knee to hit those “perfect angles” my therapist keeps mentioning. And the stiffness? Let’s just say it’s a love-hate relationship. But all the hard work is paying off.
And come January 2025, my knee and I will take on an adventure 20 years in the making: visiting the Taj Mahal. I can’t wait to leisurely stroll its beautiful grounds, pain-free, finally living out a dream that’s been too long on hold.
This experience has reminded me of the power of resilience, humor, and determination. Whether I’m chasing Benny around the yard or preparing for life’s next big adventure, I’m ready for whatever comes next.
So here’s to healing, to moving forward, and to always keeping life—and knees—on the go.
JANET FOLK
Author & Entrepreneur
Book: Hell in High Heels: How I Conquered My Demons
Website: www.janetfolk.com
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Meet the Author - Janet Folk
Janet Folk is a renowned start-up entrepreneur and founder of J. Folk & Associates, Ltd. in Alberta. With over 30 years as President, she expanded her portfolio through the acquisition of Beveridge Insurance and the establishment of National Home Warranty Programs, Ltd. In 2008, she sold her companies to AVIVA Canada, allowing her to explore philanthropy and new business opportunities. Janet is also a community activist, serving on the boards of the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, the Zebra Child Protection Centre, and the Edmonton Humane Society.
Janet founded the Orange Dog Foundation, which rescues abandoned puppies using her Gulfstream III jet. In 2010, she and her white Labrador, Daisy, joined a mission to save dogs facing euthanization in California shelters due to wildfires. They transported hundreds of dogs on Jan's private jet to secure forever homes in Canada.
Janet's dedication extends beyond her entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors, believing in mentoring and nurturing the next generation of business leaders. Her memoir, "Hell in High Heels: How I Conquered My Demons," has made a significant impact in addiction and recovery, reaching individuals seeking support and guidance on their journey to sobriety. It has also been submitted to Readers' Favorite, a prestigious platform for book reviews and recommendations.
Note: The author, compiler and publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party due to these words coming from the author’s own opinion based on their experiences. This account is based on the author’s own personal experience. We assume no responsibility for errors or omissions in these articles.
