Benefits of knee problems!

[BubblyC]

I think the best benefit of my knees is the better appreciation I have for people on crutches/in wheelchairs/wearing braces.  Having used all three, I understand how much longer it takes to do the normal things in life, and the challenges faced just to do everyday things.  Never again will I become impatient because someone walks a little slower than I do, or causes a line-up going up and down stairs!  I've walked in their shoes, so thank you knees for giving me that insight!

Kath

Here, here Kath!  I second this.  I now have a truly new appreciation for anyone who is handicapped in anyway.  I like to think that I was tolerant before, but I know that I definitely am now! 

And to echo others who have said this, it is great to have discovered kneegeeks 'cause it really has helped me in dealing with the situation.  I think my OS and PT are going to kill me if they hear the phrase "Well, on kneeguru.co.uk there is a discussion..." again!

Thanks guys (and good thread  )

Smiles,
C.

[Artemis82]

This may seem stupid, but I was never very athletic, and when I had my knee problems in middle school and high school I was able to get out of P.E. and sit on the sidelines. This made for far less humiliation on my part  .
Laura

[BridgetJones_uk]

Mines a little bizarre, it has made me more patient and it makes me realize that somethings I used to hate like running and weight training, I actually love, otherwise I wouldn't miss them so much!

Lots of gammy joint love

M
xxxxxx

[UCIGimp]

I've really gotten to know a lot of people, people see you in a brace or on crutches and ask what happened, so you get to talking, and I've found that so many people have had knee problems.

I get killer parking spots now

Since I walk slower i get to see more things

No more lines in amusement parks

I've become closer to some of my friends, especially the ones that have helped me in so many ways with my knees (carry books at school, bring home my homework after surgery, come hang out with me at home when I couldn't go out etc)

[SarahJane]

Benefits of knee problems:

People show me their scars - but I normally win in the 'Cringe Making Scar Competition'
Complete strangers walk up to me and ask 'what on earth have you done to yourself then'
I don't have to drive to/from the Pub
I've learnt a whole new vocabulary and can draw clear diagrams about how a Knee works!!
I now understand the different effects of Narcotics/Pain Medication

actually - I'm a bit dubious about whether some of those are benefits!   

S

[Flame]

I have learned patience. I have learned how to be sympathetic to people. I have learned alot about myself and changed alot about me. I think that one of the most important things that I have learned is that this life is short and you have to make the best of it no matter what the situation.

Flame

[Flame]

I have also learned how to stand up for myself and not let people walk all over me.

Flame

[csangel]

I have found out how nice and caring people can be to me when I'm in pain! Also, how much i appreciate my mum's cooking!!

Lucy

[lilrosie06]

Spend more time with my kids....

Donna

[FindnNemo91]

Having an elevator pass for school all year round, not just for injuries!!

(at least at my school)


jak

[stickshifty]

Haha the first one that came to mind was that after our last competition, I got carried back to the buses by the gorgeous, delicious-looking drum caption that can play a snare. So beautiful....

And I definitely don't take the show for granted anymore and I actually wish I could be on the field instead of wasting away watching the practice from the top of the stands.

[TwoBadKneesUSA]

Some benefits!  Good parking spots.  Sympathy from total strangers.  I also have found that my kids appreciate what they can do a whole lot more.  They are also wonderful about helping me out.  Also a good excuse for not getting laundry done (our machines are in the basement.)

This is a nice thread.

[FindnNemo91]

I never realized how much i took walking for granted, until i spent 5 weeks on crutches. The first day off them, it was so different than walking before.
    Another, i learned, like when i went shopping, i rode in a wheelchair, and when i went to try clothes on (to the best of my ability) there was someone in the handicap dressing room. I tried to get into the regular ones and got stuck in the doorway. The lady came out, a young lady, and just looked at me, but didnt apologize. I realized that day, dont take a handicap stall if u dont need it.


jak

[kiddthekatt]

I've come to realize that's ok to ask for help. I don't have to be Super Wife/Mom/Granny, I can ask for help and it feels good. I've also learned to appreciate everything that I am able to do and not get into a tizzy when I run into roadblocks. I've also learned to just take it one day at a time, I don't get into a rush, and I enjoy those around me more. Kneegeeks, to you I say a BIG THANK YOU!! Without you all I probably would have gone nuts, you guys have helped to keep me sane. I appreciate the kind words and the prayers from each and every one of you. Most of all, I've learned to appreciate life, and all that it offers. Be it hobbling around on crutches or sitting in the middle of my bed with my leg freezing off, I enjoy everyday more than ever before.

Angel

[lost77]

I like not having to make the tea at work...oh, and all that other stuff about getting stronger and becoming a better person etc as above