The Long Road to Recovery: My ACL Replacement Journey, Battling Depression, and Rediscovering a lost Passion
Life often throws us unexpected challenges, and sometimes these challenges come in the form of physical injuries. In my case, a torn ACL led to a profound journey of recovery and self-discovery, and it's a journey that I'd like to share with you. Along the way, I found solace in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), started a project called Papa Saguaro, and expanded my knowledge with the goal of becoming a better coach and, ultimately, making better humans.
The Road to Recovery
The journey to recovery after an ACL replacement surgery with a patellar graft is a long and grueling one. I'll spare you the medical details, but suffice it to say that it involves months of physical therapy, painful rehabilitation exercises, and a gradual return to normal activities. It's a road marked by setbacks and small victories, a true test of patience and resilience.
Depression's Silent Companion
One of the most challenging aspects of this journey is battling the waves of depression that often accompany a serious injury (or have). The physical pain is one thing, but the mental toll is something entirely different (and more when you have it already). The inability to do the activities I love, coupled with the constant pain and discomfort, made it easy for depression to creep in. It's essential to recognize that mental health can be just as significant a part of recovery as physical health.
Papa Saguaro: A Project Born of Necessity
Amidst the struggles, I found solace in creating something meaningful. That's when Papa Saguaro came to life. The company's goal is clear: to create a streetwear brand that catered to fitness enthusiasts and athletes alike. Papa Saguaro aims to bridge the gap between performance and style, allowing individuals to express their passion for fitness while feeling comfortable and confident in their apparel. The project is not only giving me a sense of purpose but also allowing me to connect with a community of like-minded individuals who were navigating their unique journeys to recovery.
Time off the Mats: Becoming a Better BJJ Practitioner
While I can't actively participate in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu during my recovery, I’m using the time off the mats to delve deeper into the sport. I’m spending countless hours watching and reading about BJJ techniques. This not only keeps my passion for BJJ alive but also enriches my understanding of the sport. I found inspiration in the stories of other practitioners who had faced adversity and come out stronger. Their resilience fueled my determination to return to the mats stronger than ever.
Rediscover my passion to Coach and Make Better Humans:
As I continue to immerse myself in the world of BJJ, I realized that my passion for coaching is still in me. I wanted to share my knowledge and experience with others, to help them reach their full potential both on and off the mats. With this goal in mind, I started to refresh myself with new coaching techniques, sports psychology, and ways to foster personal growth.
Conclusion
The road to a full recovery from an ACL replacement with a patellar graft is undoubtedly tough, both physically and mentally. Depression can be a silent companion on this journey, but it's essential to remember that you're not alone. Seek support, whether from friends, family, or professionals, and channel your energy into positive outlets, like I did with Papa Saguaro and my deepening passion for BJJ and coaching.
Ultimately, this challenging journey is shaping me into a better person, athlete, and coach. It is teaching me the value of resilience and the power of pursuing one's passions even in the face of adversity. Remember, your journey may be long, but it can also be transformative, leading you to new horizons you never thought possible. Embrace the process, and you may discover a better version of yourself waiting on the other side.
