Before my Lisfranc injury in March 2018, I had just gotten my 1 year "all-clear" scan results from battling cancer in 2016-17. I was getting my strength back after the chemo and radiation, and set aggressive goals for the coming year -- to compete in my first 70.3 (Half-Ironman) triathlon and my first marathon in 2018. In pursuit of those goals, I was on the way downstairs to the locker room at the gym on 3/30/18, eager to do my daily lunchtime workout, when I missed a step and injured my left foot. I soon learned from the ER doctor how serious the injury was and that my running and triathlon dreams may be over. The thought of being sidelined again (after my cancer comeback) was devastating.
But thankfully, I found
Dr. Coetzee at TCO and he assured me that he could repair the foot. His confidence and caring manner were so comforting, and his expertise in foot surgery is second to none. The surgery was a complete success, and got me back on the road much sooner than anyone expected. Within 1 month I was swimming, in 2 months I was cycling, and in 3 months I was starting to run again! In September (5 months post-surgery), I competed in the Stillwater Square Lake 70.3 triathlon (1 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and 13 mile run). Then on October 7th (just 6 months post-surgery, with 2 plates and 10 screws still in my foot), I completed Twin Cities Marathon! Not only did I finish it, I ran the entire distance without even walking for a water break.
It's been one year now since my injury and surgery. I am completely back to my old self...able to work full-time, take care of my family, plant my garden, ride my motorcycle, and train for the biggest challenge of all... my first full 140.6 Ironman in Wisconsin. I am grateful to Dr. Coetzee (and his wonderful staff Lisa Long and Larry Nilsson) for making me whole again!
P.S. My husband Pete is also training for Ironman Wisconsin. This winter, Dr. Coetzee repaired Morton's Neuromas on BOTH of Pete's feet (which had limited his training for the past decade). Nothing can stop us now! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
