Well, Aug 19th was my one year surgeversary. My body has been taking me on new adventures. A few weeks ago I went to Colorado with some friends. This was my first real test since surgery last year. Coming from Louisiana and an altitude of roughly 200 feet above sea level, I made it to about 12,300 feet above sea level before the altitude just got to be to much for me. Physically though, I felt awesome! Knees felt great, heart felt good, everything was great! Only problem was my lungs at that altitude. Last year, I would not have made it half as far as I did. Dang lungs just couldn't handle it...lol Thats ok, gonna try again next year and hopefully have more time before the hike to acclimate to the altitude. I was upset to stop before making it to the top of Mt Elbert but once I realized how far I had gone compared to where I was last year, I was extremely pleased with myself and felt great about what I had accomplished. I am headed to Arkansas next month with my wife to do some hiking in the Ouachita Mtns. Can't wait!!

Here are some pics from Mt. Elbert in Colorado. I WILL make it to the top next time!.

Edited August 28, 201411 yr by lsu2868

Don't be too hard on yourself. I used to live in Durango at around 6000 feet. I was a ski instructor and raft guide, so very much in shape. I STILL had a rough time above 12,000 feet! I've got friends from Florida who run 1/2 marathons and they get winded when they visit me where I live in Idaho...about 6500feet.

So congratulations on everything you have accomplished. Be proud!

Great job

That's awesome Isu!!!