I woke up at 7:00 and started preparing the suitcases. No aftershocks overnight, which was reassuring. While waiting for my wife, I did my PowerDot session and then headed to the gym. The gym was excellent, and I managed a solid chest and triceps workout. That part of my body still listens well.
Back in the room, I tested something important. According to the protocol, I should now be able to bear full body weight. I stood up and took a few steps, carefully, fully supported and controlled. And it worked. Standing and walking on my own again felt huge. A quiet but powerful moment. Still, I will keep the crutches, exactly as advised by both my doctor and physio. Progress does not mean shortcuts.
We moved locations again, heading to Kaohsiung. On the way, we stopped at the Tainan Confucius Temple. It was genuinely interesting. His teachings about loyalty, respect, harmony, and moral responsibility feel surprisingly practical. Timeless, really. Ideas that would probably make society work better if applied more often.
We walked a bit around the area and then got back on the bus. A few minutes later, we stopped again to grab a quick bite at a market. I chose to stay on the bus and focus on an ice session instead. It felt like the right tradeoff.
Once in Kaohsiung, we checked into the hotel, rested briefly, and then went out again. This time using the tram to reach a newer riverside neighborhood. By then, hunger, fatigue, and irritation were all competing for attention. I caught myself wondering why we even chose the tram instead of a bus. Eventually, we found a place to eat.
More drinks followed, and so did more swelling. The knee made its opinion very clear. A bit of family tension surfaced, and by the time we got back to the room, rest was the only priority left. Ice, elevation, and silence.
Today proved something important. I am capable of more. But every extra decision still carries a cost.
Key Takeaways
- Full weight bearing is now possible under control
- Crutches remain important despite functional progress
- Upper body strength training continues without issues
- Choosing rest over convenience helps manage swelling
- Long travel days still accumulate fatigue quickly
- Mental energy matters as much as physical capacity