City "Vanlife" - What it was like Recovering from Back Surgery
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 2 ต.ค. 2024
- This is what my days were like immediately after back surgery all the way up until I am able to move back into Lucky, my tiny home on wheels.
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My name is Matthew and I live in a van. I lost my job due to "cut backs" from the pandemic of 2020 and decided to seriously restructure my life. I am also a single dad who needed to find a solution that would allow me to remain in my daughter's life and plan for her future. After tons of research into #vanlife, I knew it was for me.
From March 2021 until October 2021 I spent my days building out my Chevrolet Express 2500, which came to be known as "Lucky" and as of October 18, 2021 I have been living in Lucky full time.
The build was done with almost no experience on my end and I used the one incredible tool I had at my disposal - the internet - to learn what I needed to build Lucky into a very comfortable tiny home.
I have always had a bit of a passion for being in front of the camera and really enjoy capturing the world around us. This really played into how I was feeling after almost a year of working from home when I "commuted" from the bedroom to the couch. I was starting to feel extremely unhealthy, unmotivated and despondent. I HATED that, and that's not a word I like to throw around. This new lifestyle gives me opportunities I just didn't have before and I am so excited to be able to share it all with you.
I truly believe we all have the capabilities to turn our lives around, should we choose to do so - and if I can inspire you to shoot for something better then I have done a decent job and that will keep me going.
There is more to life than the consume, consume, spend, spend lifestyle I feel we have all been conditioned to follow and I just want to do the best I can for myself first and foremost. Our time is limited and I do not want to waste another second on a lifestyle that doesn't bring me joy!
Be Happy, Be Creative, Be Yourself and BE POSITIVE!
Matt let the tears fall! You're a TRUE Dad and it's okay to cry.
I’m so glad you had Penny, the family (& of course Amber) around to help out. And your extended Lucky family cheering you on from afar🍀. You’re moving so much better (take a look back!) so the walking definitely seems to help. It’ll be so nice when you can get back in the pool with B. It’s so touching seeing how much you love & miss her🥰💞😘🍀🏴☠️
Absolutely love how you not only show your life but also your feelings. You are just so genuine.
Thank you Jacquie!
My heart broke for you, but major surgery, anesthesia, pain, pain and more pain, then missing the kiddo ... it is a lot. You seem to be recovering nicely and looking and sounding so much stronger now. ❤
Hi Matthew!! Considering the surgery you had, you seem to be doing well. Continued prayers for a speedy recovery!!
Only , if there were more Daddies, like you! This weird world would be better. I’ve been a single mom, by choice for over 15 years. Only wish daddy was in the picture!❤
Your 201st episode was perfect in every way. You nailed the videography and editing. Not bad for a guy recovering from surgery. And then there's your subtlety -- when you went out to your van in the robe someone sent you. Sometimes saying nothing says so much (gratitude). I got the feeling toward the end of the episode that I was watching a Tarantino movie. The shots, the music selection, and you -- just trying to get through a rough time. And I hope you do get through this rough time of pain soon.
Thank you very much
Hope you start feeling better very soon,love the dressing gown.
I was anxiously waiting for this video all afternoon and then didn't want it to end. Patience and not overdoing it are a must i think and i know it's past but i really hope you didn't drive yourself to Edmonton. Thanks for sharing.
🍀🌼🍀🌼🍀
Parents don’t mind helping their kids…no matter their age Staying with your folks might help with boredom and let’s face it…having family around to help out is nice when you feel crappy ❤
Happy Birthday Matt. We love you. Hope for speedy recovery.
Awe, it broke my heart to see you upset. 💔 I'm so sorry, Love. This will be a flash in the rear view soon enough, and although you are by yourself at the moment, you are not alone. Your friends and fam are there cheering you on. And you have your soothing Penny. Sending you healing vibes from Costa Rica 🥰💙
Aww Mathew, just remember this will be short term and to better ur physical health to be able to do more with ur little girl for life, thanks for sharing , and a huge hug for Amber helping you out a true friend , and pats go to chunky girl 😂😘🇦🇺👍🏼
A birthday you won't ever forget.. Big hugs to you, I can see the pain thru this video. Your back surgery not easy 😮💨 So glad you saw Brooklyn and family that helped your soul! Amber thanks for being such a solid friend to Matthew! I am praying your back is much better at this point. Still amazed at all the content you have captured during this, that was not easy. 🤗 This was well edited and shot.. Don't over do it, take it easy on that back. I see your creativity throughout this process. Continued healing prayers! Little Miss Penny, your healing pal!
HEY! Hello Matt, Amber and Penny! I hope that all is going well. Happy 39th Matt! YAY!!
dont be hard on yourself about your kid, she knows she has a GREAT DAD!!!!!!
Matthew, one thing that is hardly EVER talked about is what surgery, especially a first surgery, does mentally to a person. Your body was violated, and that is an emotional thing, and you will feel more emotional for that reason...then throw in pain and your routine being fu-bar'd, that is a recipe for emotional disaster. Yes, I know you decided to have it, but that does not matter. Just keep reminding yourself "this too shall pass and things will get better each day." ❤❤❤
I'm 71 and have to use a cane to help me walk because of arthritis in my left hip. I pray out loud to Jesus to help me get into the tub to shower and then safely dry off to get out without falling. NO SHAME in using a cane!
Im 59 and I can't get around without my cane, sometimes 2, or my walker. Yes, I agree with Martna, Matthew... Who cares what anyone thinks... You have to take care of you!
Hang in there Matthew. You are doing great for 2 weeks. Remember it's a 10 week recovery period. I know you hoped to bounce back quickly and I think you are. Fingers crossed 🤞 your appointment went great. I love a good drive up motel room. Take it easy and be kind to yourself. Best always. L,f.
Get well soon. Hugs from Jacksonville Florida
Awww, we love you Matthew ❤. It's ok to feel what you're feeling, it will all be ok.
Be positive, and don't forget that you're doing what you love.
The pain will go away, just persevere and you'll be able to look back and you'll feel very grateful you did it.
Brooklyn will understand - she loves you!
I like how Penny answers you after everything you say to her. She's a very vocal cat 👍 🐈
Penny was certainly enjoying your room! She’s very cute.
Prayers for you! Hang in there. Hope tomorrow and the day after are better. 🙏
🙏
Matthew I really appreciate this vlog because you've shown such courage in opening yourself up and showing us your vulnerabilities. I really appreciate it because you took time to film and edit a vlog at a time when you were experiencing horrific pain. I really appreciate it because it's a bloody good piece of work, it's entertaining, it allows the viewer the opportunity to understand the complexities of a Vanlifer dealing with adversity, takes us through different emotions and its filmed and edited with professionalism. Thank you!😊
I loved the music near the end of the vlog, it felt very Pulp Fiction esq!
Finally thank you Cam for gifting the housecoat to Matthew, it looked great and was the cozy comforting hug that Matthew really needed.💞
Hi Matthew ❤❤❤my heart goes out to you hang in there you will start to be past this difficult part soon enough ❤❤❤ many prayers and blessings to you ❤❤❤thank you for sharing ❤❤
🎂Happy Birthday Matthew 🎂, so awesome you have family and friends help you during your recovery, thanks for keeping us viewers updated sir :) Almost forgot...Hello Pennycat :)
Matthew, I hated seeing you in so much pain. I felt your frustrations and raw emotions. As I watched the video i kept thinking how lucky you are to have thousands of people who truly and deeply care for you. Its crazy to think that 2 weeks have already passed since the surgery. I hope and pray each day you will get stronger and the pain will become less and less.
😳WELL ...I must say this was a time, and I'm soooo HAPPY that you got thru it!👍. Your DADDY/DAUGHTER tears are so PRECIOUS ...I do LUV the LOVE!🤗💖. The walking is definitely the key ...keep moving it will help. Also, LOVELY gifts ...that house coat w/hood is AWESOME. This was an EXCITING video/vlog ...all systems go, Captain Matthew & 1st mate PRETTY Penny ...sailing into NEW ADVENTURES!😇. Take care, stay safe & be bless'd 🙏.
All those good places to eat around the motel ...YUMMY!😋
So sorry to hear you had so much pain 😢 and how much you missed Brooklyn. Great vlog and it did go by fast. 🍀🍀💚
The Saran Wrap allows you to be a Matthew Burrito.
I empathize with your mood and impatience. It's okay. Great visit. Get well.
You're having an interesting experience of living an old person's life. 😢
🤪😏🤣
Mathew you had a major surgery…it takes time to physically and mentally recover. Allow yourself time and space to recover and process it.😊
One day at a time Matt , just take it slow. Soon you will begin to notice a difference for the better.. I wonder if a Hospital in BC can take your staples out an do the follow up? They should not be a reason as to why that can't happen, thus allowing you to go with your Parents. Just a thought.
There may be legal reasons the same physician's practice has to do it & to check his surgical site as well for skin integrity, color & healing progression.
Someone commented that similar surgeries in BC have a 5 year Wait-List !! Each Province's HealthCare system is run like different entities (?).
JeffieBear had red tape galore & hoops to jump thru when he moved from BC to Ontario.
I want _as_ *_little_* interaction with ANY government agency as possible in my life ( yeah , good luck with that ! )
Yes Matt the first couple weeks are hard. But all of a sudden you will realize hardly any pain
This was well documented and really well shot….it reminded me a little bit like rocky but instead of training to fight for an opponent your training/fighting to try to get back to some kind of normalcy. 🤜🤛
Very kind words dude, thank you
Best video yet bro. You're strong af bud, you got this. It's a daily exersize in pain tolerance and management, but the worst is over. Rock on man.
Hi Matthew so happy to see you recovering so well. Healing takes time and plenty of rest. Continued blessing to you, Brooklyn, Amber and Penny.
Intro-ing with Saran Wrap & a shower, wasn’t sure wether we were getting a horror movie or an Only Fans promo.🤣😜 Happy birthday 🎂🎁. Recovery sucks. Boredom, stiffness, pain, but it does get better.
Happy Birthday, Matt. I hope you get feeling better; it will probably take weeks to get back to normal, but you can do it. I know it has to be tough, but I think we all appreciate you sharing the unvarnished moments. And thankfully you have Penny by your side
Winter wonderland there today eh!!
I have a seat cushion like that & I love it. I always worry when you leave your recording phone behind on your tripod to film like at the end, I worry someone will steal it. Looks like you are coming along at the Matthew healing rate, as everyone heals differently 🙏🌷
Very nice robe you were gifted, look a comfy.
You are truly blessed to have family and friends who care for you and are able to assist you! I just want to say that this is a wonderful and I thank you for sharing such a personal journey. You are such a good dad and a true artist.
I have read that cats dont like change but Penny just looks around like 'it will suffice" then curls up on whatever bed she .❤
Matthew thank you for be so authentic and showing your emotions! I want you to know you are doing this for your kid! Yes it sucks right now but take it from someone with back/neuropathy/neurological problems that was stubbornly I hated doctors and dealing with it. That by ignoring it I made life 10 times worst/harder, yes it sucks, it hurts like hell but the future/adventures/experiences/memories with your daughter will be so much more happy/joyful because you are an amazing father and took care of the situation now! Once fully healed I’m sure you’ll be dancing wildly because of healthy back!
Hi Matthew. To be honest I would probably do the exact same thing as you are doing. Be proud of the walks you do already. Time will make things easier. And snuggle up with Penny because cats are secretly anti-inflammatory too if you know what I mean? Also Amber is a true gem for helping you out so much. Take care. Sending a careful and warm bro hug from Belgium. Cuz that is how far your videos go...✌️✌️✌️
I know your birthday has already passed but hey, may this new year be filled with connection, levity, joy. Prayers for a speedy recovery. Good to see how many folks love and support you.😍🥰🤩touched by how much you missed your little girl. Lovin' the house coat. Our prayers continue to be with you. Looking oh so much better.
Sept 3rd 2013 had right below knee amputee surgery. Went though 3 months of recovery and rehab to get my first prosthetic leg to walk again. My dad passed away 19th 2013 and he say me walk into his hospital room before his went to heaven. 2016, I was able to drive again.
Now have the best prosthetic leg yet
I love Penny’s almost silent meowps. Oh and Amber. Love Amber 😂
Awww Matthew...please keep in mind that you had major surgery and whenever you have anaesthetic it will affect everything. I was told it take a year for the anaesthetic to completely leave your system...I'm hoping that's not true.
You had the surgery so you can move easier with Brooklyn. She won't remember the time you were unable to take her swimming. She will remember how much you love her and the wonderful things you ARE able to do together. Be gentle with yourself. Pace yourself and get ready for the next steps and the next chapter! Yahoo!
Recovering like a champ! Rocky theme song would have complimented this video perfectly... Godspeed.
Penny seems to love the bed.
You poor guy...feel for ya. As for the parking situation..." some people's kids!" 🙄
Penny seems cozy in the big bed...all snuggled up next to the pillow. Sure her company is comforting right now.😻
Love that van tastic birthday card...your fans send you the sweetest loot! 😁
Gee, too bad they don't have huge waterproof band aids to put on your back while showering. Syran wrap is a drag to have to use.
Try staying positive during this season of pain and recovery.
Aww... you'll be with Brooklyn soon ...
hang in there Matthew...keep fighting the good fight!
Penny's sooo cute talking back to you when you talk to her. Sweet baby gurl. 😻
Take care Matthew!
Caramel flavored coffee...lol tha facial expression was too 🤣! That's great your van is just steps away at this other hotel!
Much easier on ya! 👍
It's temporary Matthew. This pain does go away. A week from now you will be feeling better. A month from now you will be much better. A year from now hopefully it won't be on your mind other than remembering your birthday will always remind you. In two years you forget that pain existed so long. I had neck surgery in 2012 and I felt like I was hit by a train. They had to put a bunch of metal spacers and screws in three vertebra. My thoracic spine and my lumbar spine both need attention. It's been since then that I have needed a cane to walk any distance. Now I need a power chair for shopping and activities. Don't get old. It hurts.
i dont like hearing that. but you aint quitting yet. so thats promising.
Hello Matthew, so glad to see you're getting some exercise everyday. It must help you to recovery sooner.
You got this and it will get better 💪Thank you for doing all that so we can be a bit with you on your recovery 💚
Snow in Calgary! Good thing you're heading to Edmonton. Greetings from Manitoba!
I had the same surgery, I suggest you get one of those grabber gadgets, it was a life saver.
Hi Matthew and penny just watched the video aw bless you seeing you struggling you will get there takes time just love penny sleeing on the hotel bed she looked very comfortable ❤ xx
One level, looks like Medtronic 😂. Part of the soreness in your upper body, neck and jaw was from the position/frame you were in for the surgery. The dressing on your back is waterproof . And the more walking around you do, the less sore you will be. No heavy lifting, nothing heavier than a 5 lb bag of potatoes . No twisting motions . All that should have been in your discharge instructions .
You seem to be doing well in your recovery. Happy that you got to spend time with your pirate princess. Good to see you feeling better. Blessings Matthew ❤
Matthew, you did a phenomenal job filming this, I hope it took your mind off things. My heart broke for you when you lost it about you baby girl. Don’t worry, she loves her Daddy no matter what.
just keep moving know it is hard but you are doing great. Enjoy your stories and seeing you be a great DAD
Aww Matthew u bought tears to my eyes I feel bad that ur frustrated that you can't do much❤I hope you r feeling better by now ❤❤ 🙏
I truly hope that you know the drugs can bring on depression. I know you miss the time with Brooklynn, but dude it will get better. And you will be able to have more fun with her and make this up to her. It's called getting old and your body will throw you some curves. Stay safe and see you in the next one, love ya.
The one thing you need to remember is that the only time a body can heal is when a person is sleeping. That's why you sleep so much when you're not feeling well. So, keep sleeping so you can heal faster.
Thanks for sharing your living life with Us
❤😊❤the day i met you at the Casino never thought you would have to go thru these trying times. Glad ur on the mend and it will get better. Be kind take it slow and remember i appreciate your living life
❤❤😊❤❤happy belated b'day buddy
Seeing you crying brought me to tears. Big hugs to you Matthew.
Happy birthday Matthew. Have a speedy recovery.
Recovery isn't an easy task for sure but your looking good with your movement, and the resting and taking things easy has certainly paid off. You are the only you tuber who can makes me cry , laugh and feel like I'm hanging with a friend. Thank you for everything you do for us your viewwers
Hubby is recovering from shattering 12th vertebrae / 1 lumber and having to get “cage” after 9 hr surgery. I definitely understand the pain your in and the struggle your going thru. He was in the hospital for 14 days than rehab 31 days he’s also had to wear a turtle shell brace when ever he’s up and will continue to have to wear it for several more weeks. Therapy will be starting again now that we are home while he’s going thru this I’m gettin radiation and chemo therapy .Stay strong .
@arleneesserine1766
Wishing him a speedy recovery from surgery and after treatments.
💝❤️👍
hugs girl, you have more than a full plate going on. Best wishes for you both!
Saying a prayer for you both tonight… hugs
Now that I live in my rv it’s my favorite place to be! I feel moody when I have to stay anywhere else, lol!!
I hope the pain subsides soon. It just takes some time to go through the healing process after surgery. It's definitely easy to over-do things when you're on meds. Just take things easy.
Sure hope you had no problems getting to the x-ray facility and that they show everything is going well post surgery. Sending much positive energy to you, Amber, and nurse cat Penny.
I’m feeling privileged to have you sharing your experience with all of us out here in video land. I’m hoping that you will be feeling better soon and able to get back to your normal routine with your precious daughter. She is so sweet.
Happy belated birthday to you also.
Never be afraid to show your true emotions. It keeps everything in perspective for me when watching your videos. I know how hard it is to move around when you’re in pain. Finding a good position to rest is always tough. Hope today is better than yesterday!
Matthew ya should try Monster Moco Loco its so delicious its coffee.I love it ya should try it.
Happy Belated Birthday!!. One you'll never forget !! Hope all goes well with the check up in Edmonton. I'm assuming you can have a ' real" shower after the staples are out. ? Looks like you are taking some serious Horse size pills 😂 but as long as they work. Glad you had Family support the first 2 weeks. And could see Brooklyn . Keeping you in my prayers.
Well done! You are on your way! I'm so very glad to see you getting along well. Being back in your element with Lucky I'm sure has helped with the coping side of things. Keep on keepin on! You've got this ... always!
Thanks for sharing that difficult time with us. How close does this episode get us to real time?
Close “ish” lol thank you for watching
I’m addicted! I don’t watch forestry anymore😊
I still have my cane with me just in case. I seem to stand up straighter when I use it. Love the quick hardware shot. My son has medical rebar connecting his L4 to L2. His L3 got cracked in a fall. He totally understands your pain. I used CBD for my post surgery. I have a high tolerance to pain yet that always took the edge off. You’re doing very well with your healing process Matthew! Hugs and love 24/7❤️❤️
Happy birthday🎉.glad to see you walking upright..am praying for you to have a safe recovery..cuddle to penny.
I hated seeing you in so much pain as well. But you are strong, stronger than you think, look how far you've come.
Hi Matthew , sorry the pain is so bad , it will get better just takes time , and Brooklyn knows you are there for her . best wishes.
No one can ever accuse you of being a "dead fish!" Great vid. 👍
Watching you doing laps around the hotel reminds me of the days when I was traveling. Brings back good memories for me and sad that I can't do that anymore. Thank you for letting me in on your travels. Get well soon and fast.
Hang in there! It'll continue to get better! That sounds cheesy but it will get better. Continued prayers.
Matthew 😢 you're doing this so well. I can't stand to see you in pain, but you're being a good patient, you're a really good vlogger, and you're a great dad. 😊
It's great to see you doing so well, pain aside. I hope you don't drive to Edmonton, but if you do, stop often to move about. Best wishes, Matthew.
I had major surgery for flesh eating disease and was in the hospital for 12 days in isolation. Only seeing my daughter very briefly as she wasn’t able to wear the appropriate PPE at the time. I felt your tears in my soul. It’s how I felt for 12 days. I’m glad you are on the road to recovery. From what I’ve seen (all your videos) you’re a great dad and a great inspiration to anyone trying to follow their dream. Looking forward to the next chapter.
Hope you had a good birthday day . The big one is on the horizon 2024 - 40th 😁
Just had a mini stroke and lost eye sight so now can't drive. I felt depressed, but then after a time, found all the support from my friends and things that can be delivered. You sound like you are the same way and will find your way once you have time to process this. Bless you and your sharing. It helps those of us that can't live the life (Van)
Surgery definitely changes your life. It will be better, I had the same fuse in my neck, so I kinda know what your are going through. I had a fuse in my neck and carpal surgery at the same time. I cried a lot
Nice to see you walking, yes It’s extremely hard to stop doing things. Be careful, don’t over do, take the time to let things heal.
I know it's hard to believe right now, but you will be feeling better soon and you will be so happy that you had your surgery. Just please please please be very careful about not overdoing the pain meds. I know you've probably heard that from a lot of people it's just that I've lost people due to getting hooked on pain meds after surgery
My sympathies for your friends, that is a rough and raw deal - I understand the concern. Rest assured though, I’m not built that way so nothing to worry about there
Ahh, Penny needs some exercise 👍💖
Nice one!
Wow happy birthday ur getting younger lol I'm 41 so I understand what it like to be 39 lol
DANG, that makes my back hurt, I couldn't watch some that. Heal well and Happy Birthday!
By the time I comment..353 comments ahead of me! Wow.
We start our mornings off watching you on the big screen. It was great to see you are doing as well as you are. You will be healed in no time. I have to say, ibuprofen is still my best friend even after 12 years post op on my neck. All the pain meds cant compare to the relief the anti inflammatories will bring.
The motel seemed like a better choice for you than the big fancy hotel. At least lucky was right outside your door. That drive might not be comfortable, but we'll bet you are doing better than expected.
Much love to you, and we will be here in the morning to see how things went.
(Emilie and Tito)
Thank you for watching! I appreciate the words of support
Kids will bring the strongest adult to their knees. I get that ache in your chest-it just comes out of left field and blindsides you. I'm glad Lindsey was able to pick up B so you could have time with her. I just wanted to tell you not to forget this was so you could chase her again soon around the playground. This will all be a hazy memory soon enough.
Just so you know-you will always get blindsided by bouts of missing her when she's not in view...It's happening to me right now with AJ. Thank goodness for technology...gotta go make a phone call.
Matt, I wish you would use your cane when you go walking for a while longer. I can tell by the way you are walking that you are in danger still of tripping and falling because I walk the same way all the time due to chronic back and hip pain. You won't have to do this forever but until your pain is better and you are stronger. It is too easy when dealing with these issues to trip just because of an uneven surface, a small bump etc. Anyway, I am glad you are getting better. This Nana from Montana and my Pony 🐈⬛send thoughts for a speedy recovery.