Recovery, Renovations, and Reflections

184 Days Later

It’s been six months and one day since my last post on June 29th. I have no excuse other than being downright lazy about posting — lesson learned!

Reflections on the World and the Election

The good news is that the world didn't end in December as predicted by the Mayans. The bad news, in my view, is another four years of the current Obama administration. I’ve spoken with many friends and family who share my frustrations. My issue isn't personal; I simply feel the leadership lacks respect for our country’s core values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I also have serious concerns about the integrity of the election process itself.

A Difficult Summer: Mom’s Fall

Moving on to family news: On August 9th, Mom fell down three steps and fractured her right hip. It was a difficult injury to diagnose; it didn't show up on an X-ray and required an MRI to locate. During her stay at Wayne Hospital, she was also diagnosed with mild pneumonia. A swallowing test revealed a serious issue: liquids were going directly into her lungs rather than into her stomach.

Understanding the Root Cause

This wasn't entirely new. Two years ago, a neurologist diagnosed Mom with Chronic Progressive External Ophthalmoplegia. It affects the eyes and limbs, but also weakens the muscles used for swallowing. Though she was previously told to walk a mile a day and use "Thick-it," she struggled with the exercise and disliked the consistency of the supplement, so she hadn't been following that regimen.

Recovery and "Divine Intervention"

During eight weeks of rehab at The Gardens of St. Henry, Mom worked hard with speech and physical therapists. They switched her to Simply Thick, which she tolerated better. By her release on October 12th, she graduated from 50% weight-bearing to walking with a wheeled walker. She still has some independence with dressing and going to the bathroom herself, which is a blessing.

While Mom was in rehab, my siblings surprised her by redecorating her bedroom and utility room with new carpet and fresh paint. Looking back, I see the fall as a form of divine intervention:

• It could have been much worse (like the basement stairs).
• It finally forced us to address her chronic swallowing and choking issues.
• Mom finally got the home renovations she’d wanted for eight years.

 

I won't wait another six months to update you — I hope!

 

The Joy of Setting My Own Pace

Slower, But Surer

As I’ve mentioned before, I move at my own speed—roughly one-tenth the pace of the average walker. In the past, whenever I tried to "keep up," I’d end up with aching feet and sidelined for days. I finally reached a simple, brilliant conclusion: if I want the consistency of walking every day, my own pace is far better than everyone else's.

My Trusty Sidekicks

Indoors, I’m fine on my own, but outdoors is a different story. I need my elbow crutches to feel safe. Some people see them as a sign of "dependence," and I actually agree. Without them, I couldn't even make it to the neighbor’s house; with them, I can cover nearly a mile in an hour. To anyone struggling to stay mobile: don’t fear the crutches. They take away the constant worry of falling and, because they weigh a pound and a half each, my arms get a fantastic workout with every step.

Nature’s Spectacular Show

Walking slowly has its perks—I actually see things. I’ve been struck by the simple beauty of a yellow dandelion; it may be a weed, but it’s a flower in every sense of the word. The blooming trees have been spectacular lately, and unless you’re living in a cave, you couldn't miss the maple trees showering the world in "helicopter" seeds.

 

Weather Whims & Road Works

Our weather has been a rollercoaster. After being spoiled by 80° days in March, we were zapped back into winter coats. Now that it’s May, I’m optimistic the freeze warnings are finally behind us! Meanwhile, North Star is undergoing a transformation. Road crews have already ripped up the east side of town. By September, we’ll finally have sidewalks and curbs on both sides of the street—a much-needed upgrade since the original work back in 1969.

Blessings After Blessings

A Special Milestone

My mom, Joann Bensman, turns 82 today! Happy Birthday, Mom! Though she’s slowing down a bit, her determination, positive outlook, and sharp sense of humor remain as strong as ever. We call her witty remarks "little gems" because they always make us laugh out loud. We are so blessed to have such an amazing mother.

"This photo of Mom, Bob, and the kids

—Abby, Max, and Alex—was taken 

back in 2002. While I have plenty of 

photos from their younger years, we’ve 

fallen out of the habit lately. I really 

want to start capturing these moments

regularly again."

The March Heatwave

The weather has been everyone's favorite topic lately. Looking back at the AccuWeather data for March, we had an incredible 20-day stretch where the temperature averaged 70°. It peaked at 85° on March 21st! We were all getting a bit spoiled until a cold, windy front hit on Easter Sunday. I’m not a fan of the wind—anything over 15 mph keeps me indoors—but I’m thrilled that the beautiful, calm weather has finally returned.

Walking: A Daily Miracle

I may walk at a tenth of the average pace, but I am profoundly grateful to be moving at all. After being unable to walk for 18 months (from 1977 to 1979), the fact that I can still cover a mile a day, 33 years later, is a genuine miracle. I’ll never tire of thanking God for the strength and endurance He gives me. To Him be the glory!

Inspiration on YouTube

I’ve become a big fan of YouTube for its variety, especially in faith, health, and music. Recently, I was moved by a two-part video featuring Gianna Jessen, an abortion survivor. She speaks eloquently about her faith and the obstacles she has overcome. Her story is a powerful reminder of the right to life; though her mother chose abortion, Gianna survived to show the world that every life is a gift from God.

Gianna Jessen Abortion Survivor - Part 1 of 2

Gianna Jessen Abortion Survivor - Part 2 of 2 

Breaking the Distraction

I’ll admit it: I haven’t posted in two months because I’ve been completely distracted by Angry Birds on Facebook. It’s a bit of a "lame" excuse, but I’m owning up to the obsession! By making this confession, I hope to set the game aside and refocus on what truly matters: my faith, health, and this blog. I’m committed to being more diligent from here on out—at least, that’s the plan!

 

An Attitude of Gratitude

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

I am incredibly grateful for the blessings in my life: my faith, my improving health, the support of family and friends, and the technology that allows me to share my journey. I am back, and I am eager to continue sharing my love for God. I am especially thankful for my friend, Mary Ann, whose passion for the Lord inspires my own. Walking With God By My Side is more than just the title of this blog—it is how I live my life, and a gift I feel called to share with others. Amen!

Moving Forward, Literally

Last summer was a milestone for me. For the first time in years, I could walk freely on two "new and improved" feet and ankles. My life isn't just good—it is fantastic! I am so thankful to Jesus for leading me to the talented team who changed my life: surgeons Dr. Thomas Lee and Dr. William DeCarbo, and orthotic specialists John Druckemiller and Dan Kimball. Thank you, gentlemen, for your patience, expertise, and the gift of mobility. My gratitude is overwhelming.

Ralph Waldo Emerson Speaks Volumes

"For each new morning with its light,

For rest and shelter of the night,

For health and food, for love and friends,

For everything Thy goodness sends."

I found seven more gratitude quotes on the internet that I would also like to share with you.

1) "Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation. " — Brian Tracy

2) "Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." — Marcel Proust

3) "We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures." — Thornton Wilder

4) "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." — John F. Kennedy 

5) "At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us." — Albert Schweitzer 

6) Everything we do should be a result of our gratitude for what God has done for us.  — Lauryn Hill 

7) "Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.  — William Arthur Ward

To everyone from me...

Blessings Abound in My Life

Shirley Comes to My Aid

For the past month, my cousin Shirley has been a blessing, helping me four hours a week. She even completed coursework to become a certified home health care aide. With spring here and my mobility returning, her experience, culinary skills, and tidy nature have been a tremendous help. Between Shirley and Dianne (who works 16 hours a week), I am fortunate to have two such caring women assisting my mom and me.

 

My Mom’s Constant Support

Speaking of support, my mother, Joann, remains the most important woman in my life. Though she has slowed down a bit, her strong will and wonderful sense of humor never waver. Our family is truly blessed by her presence as a mother and grandmother.

 

Jesus, I Trust in You!

I recently finished my latest walking video, set to "Someone's Watching Over Me" by Hilary Duff. It features the Divine Mercy image as a tribute to my recovery from foot surgery. During the most painful days of my recovery—when I struggled with disuse osteopenia and the discomfort of the halo brace—singing the Divine Mercy Chaplet and holding my rosary provided me with essential peace. I am also deeply grateful to the nurses at Comprehensive Health Network and Father James Trick for their instrumental roles in my healing.

 

A Season of Unexpected Miracles

Lately, God has intervened in my life in ways I never imagined. Traveling with my friend Mary Ann, I’ve experienced a "small miracle": a total sense of ease. For three years, I felt panicky in public groups, but now I feel safe and joyful. I want to shout from the rooftops: "THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR BLESSING ME SO MUCH!" I am nothing without Him, and I give Him all the glory for this transformation.

 

St. Faustina and the Sisters of Reparation

On April 18th, Mary Ann and I attended a beautiful event at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Coldwater. The Sisters of Reparation from Steubenville shared the life of St. Faustina and the message of Divine Mercy. It was a privilege to meet Mother M. Wendy McMenamy and Sister M. Grace Kelly, and to venerate the relics they brought. I encourage everyone to learn more about their mission at sistersofreparation.org.

 

Seeking the Intercession of Sr. M. Alfonsa

The Sisters are also promoting the cause for the sainthood of Sr. M. Alfonsa, who suffered from rheumatoid arthritis before passing in 1994. Because I also live with RA, Mother M. Wendy took special time to speak with me about her. Knowing that Mother Wendy personally cared for Sr. Alfonsa for 12 years gave me immense hope. I am praying for her intercession for my own physical healing and continued inner peace.

 

 

A Life Filled with Blessings

God has guided me toward gifted surgeons, Dr. Thomas Lee and Dr. William DeCarbo, who have helped me walk again. More importantly, He has placed kind-hearted people in my path who helped me conquer my fears. For the first time in two years, I am truly looking forward to being out in the world. Thank you, Jesus; I trust in You!

 

So Many Blessings All in One Day

Driving Miss Becky

Friday, March 25th, began as an ordinary afternoon of office work but transformed into an extraordinary journey with my friend, Mary Ann.

 

A Special Birthday 

It was Mary Ann’s birthday, which beautifully falls on the Feast of the Annunciation—the day the Angel Gabriel visited the Virgin Mary. Fittingly, Mary Ann was named after both the Blessed Mother and her mother, St. Ann.

 

The Gift of Healing 

Our first stop was St. Charles Seminary to visit Father James Trick. Despite his own struggle with Parkinson’s, Father Trick has spent years leading healing services for others. He visited me during my foot surgery recovery last year, and since the winter weather had kept me indoors until now, this was my first chance to see him again. He once again anointed me and offered a special blessing.

 

A Lakeside Gem 

Next, we visited Montezuma to see the cottage Mary Ann and her husband, Steve, have been renovating. Their hard work has truly turned the place into a gem.

 

Moments of Faith 

Our journey continued to St. Augustine Church in Minster, where Mary Ann’s niece, Jackie, recently felt a powerful divine presence that helped her with a long-standing health issue. We then visited St. Sebastian, the site where a parishioner once witnessed the statue of the Blessed Mother weeping.

 

Seeking Peace 

At both churches, I prayed for the strength to release frustrations I’ve carried since 2008. I am seeking inner peace and joy, trusting God to help me overcome these feelings.

 

Happy Birthday, Mary Ann! 

Thank you for sharing your day with me, strengthening our faith, and making me feel so special. May God bless you and Steve always.

 

Out with the Old, In with the New

My faithful eMac has finally retired. After seven years of service, the "all-in-one" system began to fail—first with screen blackouts, then with frequent system crashes. I managed to extend its life for a few months by mirroring the display to an external monitor, but it eventually became clear that I needed a more reliable partner for my projects.

 

I am now the proud owner of a Mac mini! It’s incredible to think how far I’ve come since my first manual typewriter in 1972, or my first Commodore 64 in 1978. I’ve gone from 450 MB hard drives to a machine that allows me to get "oodles" of work done without the stress of a crash. I love it!

All My Walking Music Videos:

 

'The Climb' by Miley Cyrus  

They say it’s not about how fast you get there, but about the climb. Looking back at my foot surgeries, there were days when the 'mountain' felt impossible to move. This song became my anthem during those long weeks of physical therapy and quiet recovery. It reminded me that every small step forward—no matter how painful—was still progress. I’m sharing this video today to honor that journey and to remind anyone else in the middle of their own 'climb' to keep pushing."

 

 

'One Step at a Time' by Jordin Sparks

After foot surgery, the world feels like it's moving at 100mph while I was stuck at zero. This song reminded me that I don’t have to rush the process—I just have to keep my eyes on the floor and put one foot in front of the other. There’s no need to run when you’re learning how to walk again. Here is a look at my journey, one steady step at a time.

'Someone’s Watching Over Me' (Hilary Duff)
During my recovery, there were moments of pain and isolation where I felt overwhelmed. But looking at the image of the Divine Mercy, I was reminded that I was never truly alone. Hilary Duff’s 'Someone’s Watching Over Me' perfectly captures that feeling of being guided by a higher power. To me, Jesus is that presence—the one giving me hope when I feel weak and the inspiration to keep healing. This video is a reflection of His grace in my life.

'Footloose' (Kenny Loggins): One of my favorite dance songs! It was a blast to put this one together.

Springing into Action

With the snow finally behind us, I’m more than ready for the next eight months of warmth. It’s time to put these new shoes to work and enjoy the sunshine.

 

Proof that I'm Still Here!

Slow and Steady Progress

Since October, I’ve prioritized physical therapy over blogging to focus on my recovery. The results have been life-changing: on November 8th, I received my right shoe and began walking with both heels flat for the first time in 35 years!

After two weeks on crutches and a brief stint using just one, I can now walk unassisted indoors for up to 45 minutes. While my left ankle is tight when I first stand up, ten minutes of stretching allows me to bear my full weight comfortably.

A Refreshing Winter Stroll

Yesterday’s 39° weather was too perfect to miss. I spent an hour walking outside in the misty rain, and it was incredibly invigorating. I still use crutches outdoors for safety, but the difference is night and day: my ankles no longer roll, and my walking pain has decreased by 90%. While my feet feel achy after sitting for long periods, it is a minor trade-off compared to the pain I lived with before. I am so grateful.

Tech Updates: Dual Operating Systems

I’m currently backing up my hard drive to perform a "clean sweep" and partition it. I’ve used Mac OS Panther on my eMac for six years, but I’m adding Tiger to better support YouTube and modern websites. It’s my first time setting up a dual OS, so I’m hoping for a smooth process!

New Life for the North Star Community Center

After our local elementary students transferred to Versailles, our town inherited the school building. It’s a wonderful facility with six classrooms, a gym, and a library, and the community is already making excellent use of it.

Until next time, stay safe, healthy, and happy!

 

A Potpourri of Topics

Abby’s Artwork

My 11-year-old niece, Abby, has added three new drawings to her gallery. If you have a moment, please check out her latest work here: [Abby’s Artwork Blog].

Reflecting on Six Months of Recovery

Yesterday marked exactly six months since my April 6th surgery. Dr. DeCarbo removed the nodules from the bottom of my foot and applied a halo to realign my ankle to a 90° angle.

The recovery has flown by, which is a blessing considering I spent 70 days on bed rest. While my computer, TV, and the view from my window helped pass the time, I still feel that summer ended too quickly. Winter always seems to drag on, perhaps because the cold keeps us indoors, but I’m grateful I spent my non-weight-bearing months during the brighter days of spring and summer.

Faster Strides

My walking continues to improve! Even in the walking boot, I managed a mile both yesterday and today. Using my wristwatch to track my progress, I’ve made significant gains:

• Yesterday: Finished in approximately 54 minutes, shaving 5 minutes off my previous record.
• Today: Pushed myself a bit harder and finished in roughly 50 minutes.

 

A Legacy of Gratitude

I never take a single step for granted. Thinking back to 1977–1979, when I could only stand for 30 seconds at a time, being able to walk like this 31 years later is a true blessing. I am incredibly grateful to God for His grace and for the strength to keep moving forward.

 

Looking Ahead

I expect to receive my new right shoe in about two weeks. It will likely take another two weeks to adjust after four months in the boot, but I’m aiming to film one more walking video by mid-November before the cold sets in.

 

In the meantime, I hope you all enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves while they last. I’m already looking forward to next spring!

 

Artistic Talent: A Family Legacy

Since childhood, I’ve admired my sister Ruth’s incredible gift for drawing. While she graduated high school in 1975 and I followed in 1979, I still vividly remember "sneaking" looks through her art school book, completely awestruck by her skill. As someone who can’t even draw a straight stick figure, her natural ability seemed like magic to me.

 

We always believed Ruth inherited this talent from our Grandpa "Gus" Bensman, who was gifted at drawing animals. Now, that legacy continues with my niece, Abby. Having inherited a "double dose" of talent from both the Bensman side and her mother, Barb, Abby is already a blossoming artist at just 11 years old.

 

This past summer, I helped Abby launch her own blog to showcase her work. She is currently taking after-school art classes and will be updating her gallery regularly with new pieces. I encourage you to bookmark her site and follow along with her progress!

 

You can check out Abby’s Artwork Blog here!

 

Reached Another Goal

1.0454 & 59:24

Can you guess what those numbers represent? That’s 1.04 miles in 59 minutes and 24 seconds! I am thrilled to have met my goal of finishing under an hour, especially while still wearing the walking boot. Once I transition to my new shoe and the pain subsides, I’m aiming to shave at least five minutes off that time.

To calculate my distance, I used the Gmaps Pedometer website. It’s a great tool—I just zoomed into North Star, mapped out my laps at the church parking lot across the street, and it did the math for me.

Adjusting the Routine 

On Sunday, I tried splitting the distance into two half-mile walks, finishing with a total time of 50:56. Today, however, I really struggled with the final four laps of my full-mile attempt. To manage the foot pain and "play it safe," I’ve decided to stick with the two half-mile sessions for now.

I have a few more things to get to, so I’ll head out for now!

 

Walking With God & My Community: Thank You!

These past five months have been a journey of frustration and triumph. While I appreciate every encouraging word left on my blog, I cannot take full credit for my progress. As my blog title, "Walking With God By My Side," suggests, I am only here through God’s grace. He gives me the strength to believe I will get stronger every day. All glory belongs to Him!

My Foundation: Family & Friends

I am richly blessed by my family, who have supported me for years. To my parents, Alvin and Joann; my siblings, Bob, Ruth, Russ, and Rick; and my extended family—thank you for being my bedrock.

Growing up as a shy child in a large family, I always treasured the visits from my aunts, uncles, and cousins. Though health challenges made me more reclusive in my teens, your kindness at family gatherings has always meant the world to me. To my small but mighty circle of friends: your support keeps me going.

My Daily Support System

• Dianne: My neighbor and aide since 2005. She is the ultimate "early bird," often starting her work at 7:00 AM while I’m still recovering from restless nights. Her help in the kitchen allows me the rest I need to face the day.
• Mary Ann: A friend since the 80s. We share a deep faith and a love for laughter. I look forward to our "fun" outings next summer once I’m more mobile!
• Diana: My aide since 2009. She has a gift for lifting me out of a "funk" with her humor and shared faith. Her passion for helping others is truly a blessing.
• Father David Zink: A joyful man of God whose weekly visits with Holy Communion provide immense spiritual strength. His kindness, humor, and knowledge of the Saints are a refreshing light in my life.

 

The Community of North Star

Living in a small town is a gift. Every time I walk, a neighbor says hello. It is a kind-hearted, wonderful place to live and a community I’m proud to call home.

My Medical Team

I owe my improved mobility to the following professionals:

• Surgeons: Dr. Thomas Lee and Dr. William DeCarbo (Orthopedic Foot & Ankle) for their expert skills.
• Care Management: Vicki Binkley at Carestar, for ensuring my medical needs are met.
• Nursing & Care: The professional and caring nursing team at Comprehensive Health Network (Glenna, Lil, Linda, and the many others) and aides Teresa and Shawn.
• Transport: Spirit Medical Transport, whose EMTs treated me with the utmost respect during my trips to Westerville. 

 

To anyone I may have missed: please know that I deeply value your thoughtfulness. Thank you all for walking this path with me!

My Walking Stride has Improved

It’s been nearly five months since my right halo foot surgery on April 6th. This recovery has felt much faster than my left foot surgeries back in 2008/2009—likely because being able to walk outside in the summer sun beats being stuck indoors during the winter!

The Journey So Far

• July 27th ("The Climb"): My first video showed me taking small, cautious steps with full crutch support. 
   
•  September 3rd ("One Step at a Time"): In this new video, you’ll see my stride is longer and my pace is quicker.

 

Though my mobility is improving, I’m still using crutches due to persistent pain. I suspect the rigid walking boot is straining my muscles and tendons; I’m hopeful that transitioning to a regular shoe soon will offer the mobility I need to feel better.

 

A Fun Note: The first clip was filmed by my niece, Abby, and the second by my aide, Dianne. Despite being filmed 45 days apart, I accidentally wore the exact same outfit — I promise I have more than one outfit! Stay tuned for the third and final video once I’ve mastered my new shoes. The song is a secret for now!

Getting Cast Made for New Shoe

A Milestone Day: New Shoes and New Beginnings

On August 17th, I visited Hanger Prosthetics in Lima to be fitted for a custom shoe for my reconstructed right foot. For most, new shoes are a simple purchase; for me, they represent a life-changing milestone.

After 36 years of being unable to flatten my foot due to rheumatoid arthritis, my April 6th surgery finally returned my ankle to a 90° angle. The recovery hasn't been easy—disuse osteoporosis made my heel bone fragile, leading to complications with my "halo" wires. However, thanks to Dr. William DeCarbo’s incredible patience and expertise, my foot is healing beautifully.

 

This is John Druckemiller, the talented

Orthotist who casted both of my feet. When

John's not expertly molding fiberglass, he's

likely riding his motorcycle or working as

an auctioneer!

Here, John is carefully molding the wrap

to capture every detail of my right foot.

That yellow strip is a safety guide; once the

cast dries, John uses a special tool to cut

along it, allowing the mold to pop right off.

The final result is a perfect blueprint for my new

custom shoe.

This X-ray from June 14th shows my heel

after the halo was removed. Because of

disuse osteoporosis, my heel bone became

slightly pointed.

To avoid further surgery, my new shoe will 

feature a custom insert with a "hole" to off-

load pressure from that specific spot. As the

"X" shows, we’re making sure I can walk

without any direct pressure on the bone!

I am so grateful to Hanger for crafting shoes that allow me to walk in comfort. To celebrate, my niece Abby joined me as my official photographer! Afterward, Abby, my aide Dianne, and I headed to Staples to use a Christmas gift card on an easel for Abby’s art, followed by lunch at McDonald’s. It was my first "fun" outing since 2009—Yoohoo!!!