Steve Huppert
Hupps440@aol.com
Columnist
Every Thanksgiving my family travels to Washington D.C. for the holiday staying at the Embassy Suites in Crystal City.
Eating turkey on Thursday and exploring a location in D.C. on Friday.
This year the special spot was the Washington Monument. My brother had acquired tickets to ride to the top. What a treat- if you have never had the opportunity to observe D.C. from the top of the monument you are missing a wonderful view of the city and the Potomac River.
Naming the monument after George Washington, the nation’s first president, and the person responsible for making this country great was more than commendable.
After leaving the monument we decided to check out the National Christmas Tree near the White House. On the way there is a small gap to jump over.
It might be a small gap, but it was too much for me. I landed on my right leg, and I was an instant cripple. After being taken to the motel they carried me to the closest hospital.
For the last two weeks I have been hospitalized after being operated on for a busted knee. It was not a great way to start the 2025 holiday season. Certainly, can’t consider it the best of times.
For the next eight weeks I must limit my weight and the amount I bend my right leg. If you think that is a “piece of cake” try walking on eggshells.
I have been fortunate that the staff at the hospital and my brother have stayed on my case and that I will hopefully come through this as good as new. New as a person over eighty can be, that is.
If nothing else, I have learned to appreciate good health and how people in hospitals and rehabs are dealing with medical difficulties, as it has made me aware of the problems people are suffering.
So many people face, on a daily basis, numerous medical problems. Most receive support from family/friends, but it is just plain work, lots more to it then “have I nice day.”
As we enter the holidays it is important to support our neighbors. We might consider the painful situations they are having, then we can realize what the next guy is going through.
Life is not always easy.
“Merry Christmas – Happy New Year”
