Saturday, April 22, 2017

So Close to Flight

As the days roll on I sit and wonder just how long it will take to shed the rust and once again be comfortable in the cockpit. The last time I went through this was back in July of 2009 following my hip revision. Back then it took flight time around the pattern with some take-offs and landings. I was quickly right back in the groove. I hope it's the same with 08Romeo next weekend.

My full weight bearing has been a slow and steady process. Initially I wasn't supposed to start until April but the Doc said my fusion was looking great and he let me get started in March. Here we are, almost the end of April and I'm still using a single crutch to help get around. I have full motion as if pushing on the accelerator just very limited side to side movement. This means I still can walk with a normal gait. Thinking back, as bad as my hip revision surgery was, with the fractured femur, I was back to work and I was flying in ninety days. Honestly, I'm ready to throw this last crutch in the bay and climb aboard 08Romeo!

I wanted to thank the folks who follow my blog for checking in. I appreciate the emails, text messages and the private messages on Facebook and flying forums. I can't wait to be posting about flying and finally getting to use my Christmas gift, the Garmin VIRB XE.
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5 comments:

  1. AnonymousApril 22, 2017 5:24 PM

    We are all rooting for you, Gary! I really enjoy reading your stories and look forward to many future tales of adventures with you and 08R.

    - An Iowa City, IA (KIOW) fan

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  2. Jim and SandieApril 22, 2017 8:47 PM

    I'm sure you are really frustrated but this will end. You certainly don't want to undo any of the progress you've made. I am definitely excited for you to get back in the air. And thanks for checking in and letting us know how you're doing.

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  3. GaryApril 23, 2017 7:53 AM

    Iowa City reader, thanks for checking in! Plenty of flying plans in the works and I can't wait to get back to posting about them. Mary and I were out your way back in October of 2015 for the Beech Aero Club Festival in Dubuque. From there we went to Rapid City to see the monuments, it was a great trip.


    Sandie, frustration is running rampant! ;) My poor Bride was so upset this past week, telling me she has never seen me so down. Always the encouraging one, she picks me up. I told her everyone is entitled to a bad day now and then. I hope to be posting some flight videos soon!

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  4. PA FLYERApril 30, 2017 9:22 PM

    Step by step brother! Gary, I've had two 172's in the past but haven't flown for three years. Wife and I really miss flying and are looking to get back in the air. We're considering the Sundowner this time! Love the cabin room, two doors and stable platform. One concern is the supposed difficulty in getting parts. Is that true? I'd really appreciate hearing your view on that topic. Would love to have the chance to speak with you or email.Thanks, Terry

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  5. GaryMay 01, 2017 5:28 AM

    Terry, Thanks for the commend! The Sundowner is roomy, can't beat those two doors, stable platform and built like a brick....well you get the idea.

    I haven't had any problem with parts, however I haven't needed much. The Sundowner, to borrow a horse term, is an easy keeper, at least in my experience.

    I strongly encourage joining the Beech Aero Club, it's the best $50 you'll spend. Tons of knowledge and experience shared by the members. You can email me at gmascelli 'at' gmail 'dot' com. I would love to talk Sundowners!

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