i want to ask about ur surgery plans if ur willing to share/chat. (not tryna unsolicited advice just help) ur estimated recovery times sound incredibly long, and i was told the same when I was in the US for my broken knee (full ACL reconstruction and also meniscus removal bc mine was too bad to save) , but when i went back to home (Estonia in my case) i was offered an approach that had me walking in less than 2-3 weeks and i'm thinking perhaps u could afford to travel to find a surgery with a different recovery time n spend ur money not time. but im also not a doctor so i dont know anything too specific, but happy to share what i know, lmk. i was also told no walking for 6 weeks minimum and i avoided it :D :D :D would love the same 4 u
Hey, glad you didn't mess up that gorgeous face! Take the win, miss. Secondly, the fact that at your age(sorry, awful phrase i know), you haven't blown an ACL, or Achilles tendon or fractured an ankle is a miracle given how active an athlete you are. So again, another win kiddo. I know it's painful and it's not going to be easy, but you're so ahead of the game really. Be patient with yourself. That will be the hard part for you. Taking the time to work back up. But stick with it. Obey the orthopedist!!!
Hi Connor! As a swiss who has ruptured her ACL recently and recovered from surgery, I can only say: find something to do you enjoy that is not sports related. I started pottery classes :). And believe me, everyday will be a little better and soon rehab is going to feel like training, your goal just shifted to learning to walk again. Trust yourself, and enjoy finding your value outside of sports! Best wishes!
your sadness and suffering is valid!! It's insane to think how most of us consider our mobility a given and take it for granted, thank you for the reminder! I really hope you have a speedy recovery💜
i had hip surgery back in July and you don't realize how non accessible the world is until you're on crutches. wishing a speedy recovery for you and glad you're safe!
As an Athletic Training student I've watched and helped many folks return to full participation following ACL reconstruction. Your feelings are valid. You are allowed to be sad, scared, angry, or anything else. As a physically active person being able to run, walk, hike is such a large part of your life, and you are allowed to mourn that. Make sure you try to get your extension back ASAP, that will be the most important part to begin running safely again! Best of luck on this journey, it's not easy but you will come back stronger!
I understand exactly how you're feeling right now. I had a year long knee surgery recovery during COVID as a dancer and it was one of the toughest years of my life. Remember to stay connected with your loved ones and let yourself lean on them. Wishing you as quick and safe a recovery as possible :)
Conner you were the FIRST UA-camR I ever subscribed to, 10 years worth of content watching I hope this finds you! I am so sorry this has happened to you, last year on December 22nd I fainted and dropped straight down onto my pelvis, lodging my left hip out of alignment, and bruising everything internally. I had been a dancer for my entire life pretty much, relying on my hips as both a hobby and sense of happiness. Going from completely able bodied to disabled in an instant is life chilling, and suddenly realizing how unaccommodating the world is towards the disabled is even more jarring. This process will take a while, don’t rush yourself! You said you need surgery, the body will form scar tissue and will remember where the tools moved inside of your body. This past year my physical therapist has reminded me time and time again that the body keeps score, the body remembers everything that it’s experienced including the bad. Don’t beat yourself up or compare yourself to what you used to be able to do, that is not fair because your skill set and ability has changed and that doesn’t have to be a bad thing! Use this as an opportunity to force yourself to experience life from a new perspective, how will this make you find new hobbies? Will this help make you view your body in a new way? This will be the ultimate take 1 step forward take 3 steps back, but I promise you when you hit a mobility milestone it feels like you just climbed Mount Everest. Every single word you have spoken I felt in my bones, I’m so sorry this has happened to you and I hope your physical therapist is an amazing fit!
Oh Connor I’m so sorry this happened to you! I really appreciate what you said at the end about feeling sad. It’s so important to feel feeling, not let them take over but to let them run their course and their purpose. Wishing you a quick recovery!❤️🩹
7:17 This hit at the best time for me. I am taking time off work for burn out and stress and the guilt and frustration that comes with that is overwhelming. Hearing similar sentiment around physical health and being out of the norm, is comforting. Best wishes with the recovery!
sending you so much love, con! you're clearly cognizant of the dire situation in your community, but I hope you continuously allow yourself to grieve over the future you once envisioned and the life you once knew. wishing that your surgery goes well and a more peaceful rest of the year as you recover! 🥺🫶🏼✨
Wishing you a speedy recovery! Losing mobility is a challenging experience and I would suggest reading more about disability politics as I found it incredibly comforting when I lost my mobility to learn from those who have been navigating the inaccessibility of the world for a lot longer than I have.
Connor one thing I love most about you is how you can create some light in even some of the darkest times. Even you sharing your story about your skiing accident you’re still able to discuss it with a little flicker of joy mixed with the other emotions you were feeling at the time. Sending you so much love and healing energy. I know you’re going to be on a healing journey here at the beginning of 2025. Thanks for showing up in this world. Your light really brings something so special.
Oh yeah, I totally feel you. My health crashed and burned about 6 months ago and then so did the rest of my life soon after. Its so incredibly hard to readjust to your new normal. The one thing I've learned about myself is that I am infinitely more resilient than I ever gave myself credit for. Give yourself credit where credit is due, youre doing everything you can
I'm so sorry to hear that. It's been rough, I won't lie. I know I'll come out the other side of this strong, but it's heartbreaking to look so far ahead right now. The hill is steep.
being a very driven person who loves making plans and then something happening that forces you to slow down and reevaluate those plans is honestly the worst. as a fellow impatient person, i know the feeling! hoping that you will get through this period with love, support and patience (as much as you can muster!).
Hi Connor! I did my ACL and both my meniscuses a couple of years ago playing sport and at the time of injury I was so devastated. I had a big old cry and was so scared of the recovery process and the surgery and what it meant for my year and if I could play sport in the future. And I won’t lie, recovery at the beginning was really rough for me but as soon as you begin to have some of those wins (walking without crutches, being able to cycle again, going to the gym etc.), you’ll feel SO much better and it really does start to go quickly! You’ll be back to running before you know it, but also pls look after yourself and take it easy. Dont push yourself too soon even though it’s tempting!!
Hey Connor. I broke my tibia and fibula in my leg back in August from playing roller derby. I had surgery immediately the next day, a metal rod in my tibia and several screws. It also happened the Saturday before school started. My mental health declined severely and I was so stressed for many reasons that I almost failed last semester. The hardest part about recovery for me is that, at times, I felt like I wasn't making any progress, but then I noticed weeks later that I've come a long way. I couldn't even stand in the shower for more than 5 minutes (so get a shower chair or sit on the edge of the tub lol). It's been 5 months now and PT has been a life saver, but you have to be honest with any pain you feel and don't push yourself to recover too quickly! Don't be afraid to ask someone for help, especially in the first 1-2 months. The most important thing you can do is take care of yourself, especially when active people like us lose mobility because we also lose (for a short time) the thing that brings us joy. Having a good support system and coping skills will help immensely. You will get there, you will cross the finish line! I wish you all the best!
So many of us have been with you here online for over a decade. We'll be here as whatever unfolds unfolds. You have so many supporters who will offer their/our understanding and encouragement. Take it day by day. We're not going anywhere and look forward to accompany you on the challenges ahead.,❤
Hello! This is actually my first time stumbling across your page in like a decade! It’s crazy to be watching it now. I am in somewhat the same situation but a lot less intense. I am a super active person who weight lifts, BJJ, pole dances, and does Pilates and I slipped on ice and fucked up my wrist bad. It’s been damaging for my my mental health these past couple weeks. Luckily the healing is only a couple weeks. Sending lots of love your way! Missed your content I remember watching your content as a teenager and now as an adult I feel like it’s a sign that the first video I watch describes the position I’m in.
Connor, long time subscriber and PT student here! It sounds like a quite defeating injury you got going on, but the good news is you're healthy which will make for a hopefully smooth recovery!! It will be a long and tough journey, but stay compliant with what the doctors and PTs tell you and you should be right as rain and training for that Iron Man in no time!
Busted my ACL and fractured my tibia skiing two years ago. Was in PT post op for 3 months (which didn’t feel like enough) but they let me go. Okay fast forward a year and a half post op, still couldn’t go on a run, had mobility issues, constant knee pain, couldn’t sit for longer than 10 minutes without knee pain standing up. Now two years later, I’ve been in PT longer NOW than I was post op (again that feels wrong but). It’s been such an emotional journey. Going from being healthy and mobile to not is so emotionally debilitating. Not being able to just do what you used to do is a lot mentally. You got this!! We got this!!
Everything always seems to come at once. How many times have I said that to myself. All I can suggest is that if you can try deal with one little bit at a time, it may help. It seem s to work for me. Stay cosy, comfortable, and dont rush recovery, enjoy the rest 😊
Healing hugs and energy ❤. What a spiral of angst to start 2025! Hopefully hugs to successful surgery and grateful you are able to share. Your strength will help many during these dark times.
Literally a major fear of mine, so sorry that you’re experiencing such major pains back to back to back, I hope the recovery is enlightening and strengthening ♡ You got this
Wishing you a fast and healthy recovery! I know that pain, i tore my acl and other knee tissue before, my surgery healing went fairly smooth so I hope you're back up and running soon. ♥
wishing you a great and restfull recovery! so excited to see you make your comeback! your closing remarks hit so perfectly. thank you for giving comfort while being so deserving of it. (and while i'm here.. your editor did a really great job on this one😉)
Such a discouraging start to the year, it’s nice to see your positivity but also allowing yourself to feel your feelings. Sending you all the healing vibes ❤
I feel you!! I tore my ACL in April 2024 and had surgery in October. It’s SO true what you said about only truly realizing the importance of healthy knees until you don’t have them anymore haha… But you’ll be fine! I’m now almost 4 months post-op and feel like my knee doesn’t really bother me in my day to day life anymore. First few weeks after surgery were hard not gonna lie, but it only gets better after surgery. Start your PT asap after surgery, accept help from friends and family, and ICE ICE ICE! Only way is up!! I can’t wait to go skiing again next winter and to start playing field hockey again in September, that’s my motivation to keep doing my exercises!
I am so sorry Connor that this happened to you. It must be so frustrating to change and adapt with the new constraints. You will get through this. I am sending you all my love and cannot wait to read your work on Substack. May God bless you, hang in there!
@ConnorFranta I’ve been in the same situation a couple years ago. I had dislocated my left knee playing volleyball with friends. I just needed bed rest and physical therapy, but I still had to use crutches and an immobility brace for a few weeks. It’s heartbreaking and depressing that I couldn’t move as I normally would for a while. I totally feel for you. It’s great that you are writing while you are bedridden. Keep doing those physical therapy exercises!!❤❤🙏
When I tell you I feel you, I FEEL YOU! At the beginning of last year I was like "Ohhh yeah! 2024 is gonna be my year!" Then I hurt myself while working out in February and had to have full on neck surgery. I was devastated. I had just recently enrolled in a Paralegal program and thought I would have to quit because of recovery time. But, I pushed through! Got my certification in September, went on my honeymoon in October and in the same month found out I was pregnant! My plans had shifted, but the outcome was still good! In no way am I trying to diminish your feelings or to be annoyingly optimistic, but I know you'll still be able to do amazing things this year Connor! You'll be a hobbly wobbly mess for a while, but there is still fun to be had! Trust me!
My god you are such an incredible human being! Even during such a low point in your own personal life you are still so caring to others. Our world needs more people like you.
I am really sorry to hear about your accident, and I wish you the best of luck with your surgery. I just wanted to let you know that I understand exactly what you are going through and at times it really does feel like your life is just stopping, while you have to watch your friends continue to live their lives. In 2021, I was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma, and at the height of the pandemic it was really hard to just accept the fact that I had cancer, while I watched as all my friends would go out and have fun. I was 22 at the time, and had to watch my friends go to bars through social media, while I was at home going through chemo and finishing my student teaching. Now four years later, I am able to continue living my life and am now a substitute teacher, which is something I at one point never thought I would accomplish. It is hard to accept that life is different but just know that you will be able to accomplish your goals.
Omg Connor I’m so sorry, best wishes for a fast recovery. You’ll be back to doing what you love before you know it, for now try your best to enjoy the down time. Lots of love ❤
Connor hopefully you have a speedy recovery , but dont push yourself ! I had to go thru surgery on my left leg after a bad accident, it deffinetly changes your outlook on things, specially not being able to do your normal routine, but in time like me you will get back at it .
i had the EXACT same accident on NYE this past month too lol. i had the knee pop, in the mountains, weird crazy pain, test after test, crutches and brace, fractures and tears, etc. that's crazy as hell. it hurt like crazy but the after-surgery is so much better than the before-surgery part! it may suck, but knowing you are getting better every day rather than maintaining an injury is the only thing getting me through this crazy & long recovery. crutch covers have saved me, they dont dig as much in your armpits lol. best of luck and sending good vibes for a speedy recovery!! :)
Wishing you a safe surgery and speedy recovery, Connor. I fractured all 3 bones in my ankle at the start of this year and I’m 2 weeks post surgery. I can so relate to the mental anguish you’re experiencing.
I went through a very similar thing in the summer and fall of 2023 where I broke my leg and everything I had going was torn away from me. Over a year out, I can say that it does get better and you will recover both physically and mentally. It seems like an eternity while you're in it, but will be nothing but a blip in a short time.
I hope you get better soon, grappling with the idea of surgery and recovery is tough, especially with all the changes happening in the world right now.
I had an old roommate who I supported through this exact healing and recovery. Please, please lean on your friends. Don’t over stress yourself. You’ve got this. I just woke up from back surgery myself. On the road to recovery too.
As someone who works in the physical rehab space, knees are so tender, but you'll get through! Lean on friends and explore whatever gets you the same mental relief as running did until it's healthy again
Hi Connor, like you I just had pretty similar injuries. It has been rough but I think for me the fact that I need to choose whether to do the surgery or not - and consequently having to limit myself - has been crushing, but as you mentioned, I'm trying to be kind to myself and figure it out. I really appreciate your perspective on the matter and I wish you a steady recovery. Stay patient and strong
Love you Connor! I hope your recovery (mentally and physically) is full of love and support. Thank you for joining everyone in our pain and vulnerability. It feels better now that we are all in the path to be better
Connor I am sorry to hear about your accident. I hope your recovery and surgery will be successful. Thank you for explaining everything in detail. I hope and trust you will get back to normal with your life in recovery and healing. Just know this is a season and seasons change and your life will as well.
Had almost the exact same surgery, and be prepared for your hip to hurt after surgery. That was the most surprising thing to me. PT can be fun, and give yourself a hobby. Mine was during covid so Animal Crossing was my escape. Wishing you a speedy recovery!
I've had 3 knee surgeries in the last 2 1/2 years (2 on L, 1 on R) with both bone and ligament elements for a total of 14 weeks on crutches. It is most definitely hard physically and mentally in the moment, and learning to walk again was strange as a 20-something. PT is a life saver and while I am not totally back to 100% of the things I used to be able to do, everyday I get closer and stronger. I hope your recovery is as smooth as possible! Here are some of my biggest tips: For crutches--get crutch pads for hands and armpits, a velcro attachable pocket to put on them for your water bottle/phone etc. If you need to be able to hold things in your hand, get a small tote bag or (non-breakable) mixing bowl to hold with a few fingers so can not feel completely helpless moving things from one place to the next. For PT--take pain meds (of any kind) an hour before your appointment as not only will the exercises push you to the point of pain, your PT trying to get range of motion back is uncomfortable. Miscellaneous--if you're taking prescription pain meds, take the anti-nausea ones too even if you don't feel nauseous (it can come in waves or in unusual ways like a general aversion to food). Eat something before you take meds to save your stomach lining. Don't push yourself too fast, too quickly or you too might pass out in the grocery store 2 weeks post-op lol. Ice, ice & more ice.
Connor you will crush this recovery and come out the other side so proud of yourself and all your accomplishments along the way! I am a Physical Therapist in MN and totally understand how life altering this feels when it is so unexpected. You went into this in the best shape of your life, and will have ups and downs along the way, but realistically speaking this will only help you progress and heal that much faster! Work those quads like nobodies business 👊🏼💥
i hope your surgery goes well but most of all, i hope this coming year is kinder and gentler to you as you go through the entire recovery process! i know you got this but sending you so much love and light 💞
As a derby skaer who firstly broke an ankle, then angered her knee (inflammed ligaments) - it is so hard to have an injury and realise that there are no quick fixes and that the injury you currently have prevents you from doing the things you love to do. Additionally, I really got the fear with both that they were injuries which were about to put me out the hobby long term, which would've broken my heart. Can't wait to see you recover and return to what you love.
I went through my own version of this last March. I’m 10 months in and feeling much better, but the mental aspect is incredibly hard to work through during the healing process. I’ve learned that the mental therapy just as important as the physical therapy for traumatic injuries like this. I’m sorry you are facing this 💙
I broke my ankle really badly when I was 18 and it required surgery too. It also changed everything for me because I was also a competitive athlete. Though the pain was horrible, honestly the mental aspect was the worst but it’s great that you have a therapist because I could have 100% used one back then. Now I unpack with my therapist about what happened all those years ago
You are so strong and will become stronger every single day through this journey. I tore my ACL back in 2018 so I understand how disappointing it can be. It can be so frustrating trying to complete simple tasks but it taught me gratitude. I often think about my ability to walk and I am so grateful. Keep your head up and I recommend finding some hobbies! Coloring, gaming, and reading were a huge help. Wishing you the speediest recovery ❤️🩹
Connor, your vulnerability never fails to shine beautifully. thank you for letting us into your thoughts and feelings. much love xx p.s - i love your sweater !
i was in a skiing accident on christmas morning, and wanted to share a health update. i'll be fine, but i am having surgery next week. ♥
@@ConnorFranta Good luck man!
i want to ask about ur surgery plans if ur willing to share/chat. (not tryna unsolicited advice just help) ur estimated recovery times sound incredibly long, and i was told the same when I was in the US for my broken knee (full ACL reconstruction and also meniscus removal bc mine was too bad to save) , but when i went back to home (Estonia in my case) i was offered an approach that had me walking in less than 2-3 weeks and i'm thinking perhaps u could afford to travel to find a surgery with a different recovery time n spend ur money not time. but im also not a doctor so i dont know anything too specific, but happy to share what i know, lmk. i was also told no walking for 6 weeks minimum and i avoided it :D :D :D would love the same 4 u
Good luck on your surgery Connor! Hope everything goes well and you recover soon ❤❤️🩹
Good luck Connor! You are going to emerge stronger than ever. Sending you lots of love & positivity ❤
Hey, glad you didn't mess up that gorgeous face! Take the win, miss. Secondly, the fact that at your age(sorry, awful phrase i know), you haven't blown an ACL, or Achilles tendon or fractured an ankle is a miracle given how active an athlete you are. So again, another win kiddo. I know it's painful and it's not going to be easy, but you're so ahead of the game really. Be patient with yourself. That will be the hard part for you. Taking the time to work back up. But stick with it. Obey the orthopedist!!!
Wishing you lots of strength, patience and that you recover as well and as fast as possible!
the two best things i can hope for. thank you so so much.
❤❤❤❤❤
Hi Connor! As a swiss who has ruptured her ACL recently and recovered from surgery, I can only say: find something to do you enjoy that is not sports related. I started pottery classes :). And believe me, everyday will be a little better and soon rehab is going to feel like training, your goal just shifted to learning to walk again. Trust yourself, and enjoy finding your value outside of sports! Best wishes!
i was going to do pottery as well!! great suggestions and advice. thank you dearly!
your sadness and suffering is valid!! It's insane to think how most of us consider our mobility a given and take it for granted, thank you for the reminder! I really hope you have a speedy recovery💜
Wishing you a speedy recovery
♥♥♥
Good luck Connor! Wishing you a fast recovery!
wishing for a speedy recovery for you! hope you can get back to running soon ❤️
thanks friend ❤
i had hip surgery back in July and you don't realize how non accessible the world is until you're on crutches. wishing a speedy recovery for you and glad you're safe!
As an Athletic Training student I've watched and helped many folks return to full participation following ACL reconstruction. Your feelings are valid. You are allowed to be sad, scared, angry, or anything else. As a physically active person being able to run, walk, hike is such a large part of your life, and you are allowed to mourn that. Make sure you try to get your extension back ASAP, that will be the most important part to begin running safely again! Best of luck on this journey, it's not easy but you will come back stronger!
as a PT student and fan since the beginning of time, I second this!! Push hard in therapy and you'll be back in the game in no time! 💪🥰
i really hope you get better soon Connor🫶 your voice is so healing ❤️🩹
maybe i should whisper to my leg for the next few months
thank you, love you
you gotta drop that betterhelp sponsorship brother
🙏
brother in this exact moment he has hella healthcare costs to pay maybe save this for once the surgery is done
I understand exactly how you're feeling right now. I had a year long knee surgery recovery during COVID as a dancer and it was one of the toughest years of my life. Remember to stay connected with your loved ones and let yourself lean on them. Wishing you as quick and safe a recovery as possible :)
Conner you were the FIRST UA-camR I ever subscribed to, 10 years worth of content watching I hope this finds you! I am so sorry this has happened to you, last year on December 22nd I fainted and dropped straight down onto my pelvis, lodging my left hip out of alignment, and bruising everything internally. I had been a dancer for my entire life pretty much, relying on my hips as both a hobby and sense of happiness. Going from completely able bodied to disabled in an instant is life chilling, and suddenly realizing how unaccommodating the world is towards the disabled is even more jarring. This process will take a while, don’t rush yourself! You said you need surgery, the body will form scar tissue and will remember where the tools moved inside of your body. This past year my physical therapist has reminded me time and time again that the body keeps score, the body remembers everything that it’s experienced including the bad. Don’t beat yourself up or compare yourself to what you used to be able to do, that is not fair because your skill set and ability has changed and that doesn’t have to be a bad thing! Use this as an opportunity to force yourself to experience life from a new perspective, how will this make you find new hobbies? Will this help make you view your body in a new way? This will be the ultimate take 1 step forward take 3 steps back, but I promise you when you hit a mobility milestone it feels like you just climbed Mount Everest. Every single word you have spoken I felt in my bones, I’m so sorry this has happened to you and I hope your physical therapist is an amazing fit!
Oh Connor I’m so sorry this happened to you! I really appreciate what you said at the end about feeling sad. It’s so important to feel feeling, not let them take over but to let them run their course and their purpose. Wishing you a quick recovery!❤️🩹
I'm wishing you the best of luck with the surgery and with recovery 💖
7:17 This hit at the best time for me. I am taking time off work for burn out and stress and the guilt and frustration that comes with that is overwhelming. Hearing similar sentiment around physical health and being out of the norm, is comforting. Best wishes with the recovery!
sending you so much love!
wishing you speedy recovery sending you lots of love connor. you got this
sending you so much love, con! you're clearly cognizant of the dire situation in your community, but I hope you continuously allow yourself to grieve over the future you once envisioned and the life you once knew.
wishing that your surgery goes well and a more peaceful rest of the year as you recover! 🥺🫶🏼✨
You are so brave! Sending lots of love, patience, and self-compassion!
wishing u the safest surgery & a speedy recovery!!!
I hope your surgery goes really well Connor 💜
Wishing you a speedy recovery! Losing mobility is a challenging experience and I would suggest reading more about disability politics as I found it incredibly comforting when I lost my mobility to learn from those who have been navigating the inaccessibility of the world for a lot longer than I have.
i’m a physical therapist so I know how tough this can be! wishing you all the best and a quick recovery 🧡🧡
i've done 3 weeks of PT already and it's amazing how quickly I can improve. hoping the same goes for after the surgery.
its gon be good! wishing you a speedy recovery!
Get better soon Conor! Kisses!
thank you kind soul
Wishing you a speedy recovery. ILYSM ❤
Connor one thing I love most about you is how you can create some light in even some of the darkest times. Even you sharing your story about your skiing accident you’re still able to discuss it with a little flicker of joy mixed with the other emotions you were feeling at the time.
Sending you so much love and healing energy. I know you’re going to be on a healing journey here at the beginning of 2025. Thanks for showing up in this world. Your light really brings something so special.
Oh yeah, I totally feel you. My health crashed and burned about 6 months ago and then so did the rest of my life soon after. Its so incredibly hard to readjust to your new normal. The one thing I've learned about myself is that I am infinitely more resilient than I ever gave myself credit for. Give yourself credit where credit is due, youre doing everything you can
I'm so sorry to hear that. It's been rough, I won't lie. I know I'll come out the other side of this strong, but it's heartbreaking to look so far ahead right now. The hill is steep.
@ConnorFranta It sure is. Sending you all the love and healing. Good luck on your surgery and recovery!
being a very driven person who loves making plans and then something happening that forces you to slow down and reevaluate those plans is honestly the worst. as a fellow impatient person, i know the feeling! hoping that you will get through this period with love, support and patience (as much as you can muster!).
Connor I’ve followed you for years and I always love your content 😊
Keep strong, dawg!
thanks legend
Hi Connor! I did my ACL and both my meniscuses a couple of years ago playing sport and at the time of injury I was so devastated. I had a big old cry and was so scared of the recovery process and the surgery and what it meant for my year and if I could play sport in the future. And I won’t lie, recovery at the beginning was really rough for me but as soon as you begin to have some of those wins (walking without crutches, being able to cycle again, going to the gym etc.), you’ll feel SO much better and it really does start to go quickly! You’ll be back to running before you know it, but also pls look after yourself and take it easy. Dont push yourself too soon even though it’s tempting!!
Blorg man. Thanks for sharing your story and I am wishing you a speedy recovery
Hey Connor. I broke my tibia and fibula in my leg back in August from playing roller derby. I had surgery immediately the next day, a metal rod in my tibia and several screws. It also happened the Saturday before school started. My mental health declined severely and I was so stressed for many reasons that I almost failed last semester. The hardest part about recovery for me is that, at times, I felt like I wasn't making any progress, but then I noticed weeks later that I've come a long way. I couldn't even stand in the shower for more than 5 minutes (so get a shower chair or sit on the edge of the tub lol). It's been 5 months now and PT has been a life saver, but you have to be honest with any pain you feel and don't push yourself to recover too quickly! Don't be afraid to ask someone for help, especially in the first 1-2 months. The most important thing you can do is take care of yourself, especially when active people like us lose mobility because we also lose (for a short time) the thing that brings us joy. Having a good support system and coping skills will help immensely. You will get there, you will cross the finish line! I wish you all the best!
Sending you love and healing ❤
So many of us have been with you here online for over a decade. We'll be here as whatever unfolds unfolds. You have so many supporters who will offer their/our understanding and encouragement. Take it day by day. We're not going anywhere and look forward to accompany you on the challenges ahead.,❤
Hey Connor
Hello! This is actually my first time stumbling across your page in like a decade! It’s crazy to be watching it now. I am in somewhat the same situation but a lot less intense. I am a super active person who weight lifts, BJJ, pole dances, and does Pilates and I slipped on ice and fucked up my wrist bad. It’s been damaging for my my mental health these past couple weeks. Luckily the healing is only a couple weeks. Sending lots of love your way! Missed your content I remember watching your content as a teenager and now as an adult I feel like it’s a sign that the first video I watch describes the position I’m in.
Connor, long time subscriber and PT student here! It sounds like a quite defeating injury you got going on, but the good news is you're healthy which will make for a hopefully smooth recovery!! It will be a long and tough journey, but stay compliant with what the doctors and PTs tell you and you should be right as rain and training for that Iron Man in no time!
Best of luck with the surgery!
Busted my ACL and fractured my tibia skiing two years ago. Was in PT post op for 3 months (which didn’t feel like enough) but they let me go. Okay fast forward a year and a half post op, still couldn’t go on a run, had mobility issues, constant knee pain, couldn’t sit for longer than 10 minutes without knee pain standing up.
Now two years later, I’ve been in PT longer NOW than I was post op (again that feels wrong but). It’s been such an emotional journey. Going from being healthy and mobile to not is so emotionally debilitating. Not being able to just do what you used to do is a lot mentally. You got this!! We got this!!
Everything always seems to come at once. How many times have I said that to myself. All I can suggest is that if you can try deal with one little bit at a time, it may help. It seem s to work for me. Stay cosy, comfortable, and dont rush recovery, enjoy the rest 😊
omg connor im so sorry, this sounds so scary and painful. sending you lots of love and strength and hoping for a quick recovery!!! 🤍🤍
Best wishes on your health and journey to eventual recovery. Also for your adopted home too!
Healing hugs and energy ❤. What a spiral of angst to start 2025! Hopefully hugs to successful surgery and grateful you are able to share. Your strength will help many during these dark times.
Literally a major fear of mine, so sorry that you’re experiencing such major pains back to back to back, I hope the recovery is enlightening and strengthening ♡
You got this
Wishing you a fast and healthy recovery! I know that pain, i tore my acl and other knee tissue before, my surgery healing went fairly smooth so I hope you're back up and running soon. ♥
wishing you a great and restfull recovery! so excited to see you make your comeback!
your closing remarks hit so perfectly. thank you for giving comfort while being so deserving of it.
(and while i'm here.. your editor did a really great job on this one😉)
Such a discouraging start to the year, it’s nice to see your positivity but also allowing yourself to feel your feelings. Sending you all the healing vibes ❤
Wishing you a successful surgery, a speedy recovery and sending you all the love and good vibes 🙏
I feel you!! I tore my ACL in April 2024 and had surgery in October. It’s SO true what you said about only truly realizing the importance of healthy knees until you don’t have them anymore haha… But you’ll be fine! I’m now almost 4 months post-op and feel like my knee doesn’t really bother me in my day to day life anymore. First few weeks after surgery were hard not gonna lie, but it only gets better after surgery. Start your PT asap after surgery, accept help from friends and family, and ICE ICE ICE! Only way is up!! I can’t wait to go skiing again next winter and to start playing field hockey again in September, that’s my motivation to keep doing my exercises!
I am so sorry Connor that this happened to you. It must be so frustrating to change and adapt with the new constraints. You will get through this. I am sending you all my love and cannot wait to read your work on Substack. May God bless you, hang in there!
@ConnorFranta I’ve been in the same situation a couple years ago. I had dislocated my left knee playing volleyball with friends. I just needed bed rest and physical therapy, but I still had to use crutches and an immobility brace for a few weeks. It’s heartbreaking and depressing that I couldn’t move as I normally would for a while. I totally feel for you. It’s great that you are writing while you are bedridden. Keep doing those physical therapy exercises!!❤❤🙏
When I tell you I feel you, I FEEL YOU! At the beginning of last year I was like "Ohhh yeah! 2024 is gonna be my year!" Then I hurt myself while working out in February and had to have full on neck surgery. I was devastated. I had just recently enrolled in a Paralegal program and thought I would have to quit because of recovery time. But, I pushed through! Got my certification in September, went on my honeymoon in October and in the same month found out I was pregnant! My plans had shifted, but the outcome was still good! In no way am I trying to diminish your feelings or to be annoyingly optimistic, but I know you'll still be able to do amazing things this year Connor! You'll be a hobbly wobbly mess for a while, but there is still fun to be had! Trust me!
Do take care and speedy recovery, Connor ❤
thanks darlin
Connor thank you so much for sharing, sending you lots of support and strength!
i hope everything goes well with the surgery and recovery. sending you lots of love, con!
I hope the surgery goes well! Wishing you strength and healing! 💙
My god you are such an incredible human being! Even during such a low point in your own personal life you are still so caring to others. Our world needs more people like you.
Wishing you a speedy recovery and strength!
Wishing you a speedy recovery. You got this!
I am really sorry to hear about your accident, and I wish you the best of luck with your surgery. I just wanted to let you know that I understand exactly what you are going through and at times it really does feel like your life is just stopping, while you have to watch your friends continue to live their lives. In 2021, I was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma, and at the height of the pandemic it was really hard to just accept the fact that I had cancer, while I watched as all my friends would go out and have fun. I was 22 at the time, and had to watch my friends go to bars through social media, while I was at home going through chemo and finishing my student teaching. Now four years later, I am able to continue living my life and am now a substitute teacher, which is something I at one point never thought I would accomplish. It is hard to accept that life is different but just know that you will be able to accomplish your goals.
Wishing you a fast recovery Connor! We love you!
trusting the surgery goes well and that recovery will be speedier than your marathon. sending love ❤
positive thought's and a speedy recovery stay positive young man take care sending hugs to you
Omg Connor I’m so sorry, best wishes for a fast recovery. You’ll be back to doing what you love before you know it, for now try your best to enjoy the down time. Lots of love ❤
I'm so sorry! Sending you all the love!
Connor hopefully you have a speedy recovery , but dont push yourself ! I had to go thru surgery on my left leg after a bad accident, it deffinetly changes your outlook on things, specially not being able to do your normal routine, but in time like me you will get back at it .
i can't imagine experiencing two traumatic events at the same time, and what you are feeling is valid. wishing you a speedy recovery
i had the EXACT same accident on NYE this past month too lol. i had the knee pop, in the mountains, weird crazy pain, test after test, crutches and brace, fractures and tears, etc. that's crazy as hell.
it hurt like crazy but the after-surgery is so much better than the before-surgery part! it may suck, but knowing you are getting better every day rather than maintaining an injury is the only thing getting me through this crazy & long recovery. crutch covers have saved me, they dont dig as much in your armpits lol. best of luck and sending good vibes for a speedy recovery!! :)
Wishing you a safe surgery and speedy recovery, Connor. I fractured all 3 bones in my ankle at the start of this year and I’m 2 weeks post surgery. I can so relate to the mental anguish you’re experiencing.
I went through a very similar thing in the summer and fall of 2023 where I broke my leg and everything I had going was torn away from me. Over a year out, I can say that it does get better and you will recover both physically and mentally. It seems like an eternity while you're in it, but will be nothing but a blip in a short time.
Wishing you a speedy recovery ❤️🙏🏼
sending you so much love and hope for a smooth and fast recovery connor
I hope you get better soon, grappling with the idea of surgery and recovery is tough, especially with all the changes happening in the world right now.
I had an old roommate who I supported through this exact healing and recovery. Please, please lean on your friends. Don’t over stress yourself. You’ve got this.
I just woke up from back surgery myself. On the road to recovery too.
As someone who works in the physical rehab space, knees are so tender, but you'll get through! Lean on friends and explore whatever gets you the same mental relief as running did until it's healthy again
i never comment on your videos but i’ve been watching on and off for 10 years. i wish you a speedy recovery and peace of mind 💗
Hi Connor, like you I just had pretty similar injuries. It has been rough but I think for me the fact that I need to choose whether to do the surgery or not - and consequently having to limit myself - has been crushing, but as you mentioned, I'm trying to be kind to myself and figure it out.
I really appreciate your perspective on the matter and I wish you a steady recovery. Stay patient and strong
Love you Connor! I hope your recovery (mentally and physically) is full of love and support. Thank you for joining everyone in our pain and vulnerability. It feels better now that we are all in the path to be better
wishing you a safe and quick recovery for you connor 💗
I wish you a well recovery!
Connor I am sorry to hear about your accident. I hope your recovery and surgery will be successful. Thank you for explaining everything in detail. I hope and trust you will get back to normal with your life in recovery and healing. Just know this is a season and seasons change and your life will as well.
wishing you a quick and healthy recovery :( there’s no one more persistent than you to get through this stressful period
Hugs to you, I wish things were better.
Had almost the exact same surgery, and be prepared for your hip to hurt after surgery. That was the most surprising thing to me. PT can be fun, and give yourself a hobby. Mine was during covid so Animal Crossing was my escape. Wishing you a speedy recovery!
I broke my ankle on Jan 1st, and have been stuck in a similar mindset- this video meant a lot to me. Best of luck with your recovery :)
As a victim of Hurricane Helene last year in Asheville, I feel your pain. Here’s hoping for a speedy recovery and strength in the journey
I've had 3 knee surgeries in the last 2 1/2 years (2 on L, 1 on R) with both bone and ligament elements for a total of 14 weeks on crutches. It is most definitely hard physically and mentally in the moment, and learning to walk again was strange as a 20-something. PT is a life saver and while I am not totally back to 100% of the things I used to be able to do, everyday I get closer and stronger. I hope your recovery is as smooth as possible! Here are some of my biggest tips:
For crutches--get crutch pads for hands and armpits, a velcro attachable pocket to put on them for your water bottle/phone etc. If you need to be able to hold things in your hand, get a small tote bag or (non-breakable) mixing bowl to hold with a few fingers so can not feel completely helpless moving things from one place to the next.
For PT--take pain meds (of any kind) an hour before your appointment as not only will the exercises push you to the point of pain, your PT trying to get range of motion back is uncomfortable.
Miscellaneous--if you're taking prescription pain meds, take the anti-nausea ones too even if you don't feel nauseous (it can come in waves or in unusual ways like a general aversion to food). Eat something before you take meds to save your stomach lining. Don't push yourself too fast, too quickly or you too might pass out in the grocery store 2 weeks post-op lol. Ice, ice & more ice.
Connor you will crush this recovery and come out the other side so proud of yourself and all your accomplishments along the way! I am a Physical Therapist in MN and totally understand how life altering this feels when it is so unexpected. You went into this in the best shape of your life, and will have ups and downs along the way, but realistically speaking this will only help you progress and heal that much faster! Work those quads like nobodies business 👊🏼💥
I'm sorry for the injury. Wishing you a fast recovery. I have first hand experience with physical injuries.
Hope you get well soon Connor!
Hope the surgery goes well! Wishing you a speedy recovery ❤
I hope your surgery and rehab go smoothly and well, Connor 🥺🌸 Sending lots of love from South Korea! ♥
i hope your surgery goes well but most of all, i hope this coming year is kinder and gentler to you as you go through the entire recovery process! i know you got this but sending you so much love and light 💞
pls not even me getting to the part where u mentioned being kind and gentle with one another until after i posted this 😭
sending you all of my best, and wishing you a quick recovery 💕✨
As a derby skaer who firstly broke an ankle, then angered her knee (inflammed ligaments) - it is so hard to have an injury and realise that there are no quick fixes and that the injury you currently have prevents you from doing the things you love to do. Additionally, I really got the fear with both that they were injuries which were about to put me out the hobby long term, which would've broken my heart. Can't wait to see you recover and return to what you love.
I went through my own version of this last March. I’m 10 months in and feeling much better, but the mental aspect is incredibly hard to work through during the healing process. I’ve learned that the mental therapy just as important as the physical therapy for traumatic injuries like this. I’m sorry you are facing this 💙
I broke my ankle really badly when I was 18 and it required surgery too. It also changed everything for me because I was also a competitive athlete. Though the pain was horrible, honestly the mental aspect was the worst but it’s great that you have a therapist because I could have 100% used one back then. Now I unpack with my therapist about what happened all those years ago
You are so strong and will become stronger every single day through this journey. I tore my ACL back in 2018 so I understand how disappointing it can be. It can be so frustrating trying to complete simple tasks but it taught me gratitude. I often think about my ability to walk and I am so grateful. Keep your head up and I recommend finding some hobbies! Coloring, gaming, and reading were a huge help. Wishing you the speediest recovery ❤️🩹
Connor, your vulnerability never fails to shine beautifully. thank you for letting us into your thoughts and feelings. much love xx p.s - i love your sweater !