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LOA At The Age Of 4?
Submitted by: Pit'
FranceI am experiencing life not as I understood it but as my true self.
Here is a story I tended not to share until I realized it could possibly be a benefit for some people in despair.
In 1976, at the age of 4, I was diagnosed with Osteochondritis Dissecans. This is a joint condition in which bone underneath the cartilage of a joint dies due to lack of blood flow. This bone and cartilage can then break loose, causing pain and possibly hindering joint motion.
The only way to mitigate the symptoms was to be stretched out on a wheel plank for 2 years with a 5 pound weight attached to my knee, night and day. This was to create substantial leg tension and create enough space around the femur bone top for the cartilage to grow.
The prognosis for me was a long term cognitive slowness due to a lack of physical activity associated with unbalanced walking. Well basically, a difficult life.
On day one the hospital worker asked me if I wanted a specific drawing on the plank I was about to face for the next 2 years.
My answer was a pair of bird wings. Then, I began my journey.
My mum visited me only one time after promising me it was only going to be a 3 day treatment. I was so stressed out I could not go to the bathroom but once a week. However, I was able to leave the hospital after less than a year.
My life after being in the hospital was hard. I had a tough childhood. I was exposed to heavy family physical violence. I had been beaten and abused and discouraged in school. I had no money, and no future except for the picture I never let escape from my mind.
Twenty five years later, I found myself flying as a corporate jet captain with one of the highest profiles in the world. I had no physical or cognitive side effects from my treatment. I never believed that I was sick or any different than anyone else. I kept my dream alive, and my dream kept me alive. I got those wings!
Much love to you and your family.
Pierre.