Five weeks after my second hip replacement, the walker is retired, I’m back on the trainer — and this community raised $9,041 for the Closer to Free Ride. Here’s where things stand.

Five weeks ago I was heading into surgery for my second hip replacement, so I wanted to give you a quick update — and it’s a good one.

The walker and cane are officially retired. I’m moving on my own now, with just some slight pain that subsides a little more every single day. I’ll take that trade all day long.

And here’s the big news: my PT has cleared me to start riding on my trainer! Easy pace only, and no clipping into the pedals — they don’t want me turning my foot so my toe points in and puts pressure on the hip. Luckily my bike has dual pedals, plain on one side and clip-in brackets on the other, so I’ll be on the plain side for now. Baby steps, but I’m pedaling again!

On October 14th I had my second follow-up visit — and got the news I was hoping for: I’m cleared to start strength training. Light weights only for now, and a few movements stay off limits until I see my doctor in December, but real training is officially back on the table.

Fundraising update: thank you, thank you, thank you. This year’s total came to $9,041, and that number is very special to me. As you know, I had to withdraw from the ride because of the pain I was in — and every one of you told me to put myself first and get better, then donated anyway. That meant the world to me. You can follow next year’s ride — and donate when fundraising opens — on my Closer to Free page: https://www.rideclosertofree.org/participant/Frank-Soltesz

I’m more determined than ever now. Next year, I’m riding those 100 miles!

One note on the sweepstakes: I’m not listing the winners this time since not everyone has responded yet, and I don’t want anyone feeling left out. Next year I’ll make the winner announcements much more pronounced.

So that’s where things stand — baby steps right now, building gradually, and I’ll keep you updated as I go. Thank you again for all your support and encouragement. It truly means the world to me.

— Frank Soltesz Cyclist and Cancer Survivor

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