My Journey to Recovery: Strength Training After Surgery

Since undergoing a hysterectomy on August 20, 2024, I’ve faced one of the most challenging periods of my life, both mentally and physically. Being down for seven weeks—and then some—left me feeling disconnected from the strength and routine that I had worked so hard to build prior to surgery. I had been dedicated to strength training before and during my recovery, but finding my rhythm again after such a major procedure has been much harder than I anticipated.

I want to be completely honest about how difficult this has been. The mental struggle has been just as tough, if not tougher, than the physical aspect. For someone who thrives on pushing limits in the gym, not being able to fully lift or train as I used to was a heavy emotional burden. It’s one thing to be physically limited, but the mental toll it takes is something I hadn’t fully prepared for.

When I was finally released to lift again, that first session back in the gym was overwhelming. I’m not someone who cries, and definitely not in the gym or in front of others, but that day was different. The emotions hit hard. I broke down in tears, feeling the weight of everything I’d been through. It wasn’t just about lifting a barbell again—it was about reclaiming a part of myself that felt lost.

This journey has been filled with ups and downs, but I’m ready to take you with me as I continue my recovery. I’ll be sharing how I’m training, rebuilding my strength, and preparing for my first Strongman event in two years—an event I’ve been itching to get back into.

The road ahead is long, but I’m more determined than ever. Recovery isn’t linear, and there are still struggles to face, but I know that each step, each lift, brings me closer to my goals. Stay tuned for updates on my progress, and let’s tackle this journey together!