>>681525prolapsed discs at L4 & L5 ( iirc) and damage to femoral nerve following a workplace accident
I've also developed depression/anxiety/ fear of crowds as a result, I need meds to function physically and mentally now, and I only rally can walk in 100m burst with the aid of a cane before I need to stop
desu my friend it's hard going. It's taken me nearly 5 damn years to get to the point where I semi /out/ as often as I can. it's normally short hikes, or crafty fishing- a far cry from the hill walking/scuba I used to enjoy but at least it's something.
In fairness though it's taught me a lot.
First up don't fucking quit! This is mega important. You might not be up to climbing K2, but you might be able to see what's on the other side of that hill if youre determined enough
Second up. I used to lug waaaaay too much gear. I'm not a gram pinching ultralight geardo, but I have downed my pack weight to at least 1/5 of what it was for a dayhike.
Third up. Plan more- because no things could easily go tits up for me, and I'd end up stranded, benighted or otherwise in a less than life threatening but embarrassing as you'd need help to get out of there situation I plan a lot more now and leave far far less to chance so this doesn't happen.
Fourth up. My buddies didn't mind toning down to accommodate my newfound cripplehood. IN fairness my friends have been great about things we don't do the crazy stuff we used to, and they are more than willing to take it easy, let me set the pace and just chill out for an evening, and cook breakfast before we all go home
