City "Vanlife" - What it was like Recovering from Back Surgery

[@martna1]

Matt let the tears fall! You're a TRUE Dad and it's okay to cry.

[@janet1744]

I have read that cats dont like change but Penny just looks around like 'it will suffice" then curls up on whatever bed she .❤

[@lorib5341]

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 ❤

[@bryanl6100]

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)

[@amandameuller96]

Been there done that...I had a Splenic Artery Aneurysm with rupture in 2022. And they rushed me to another hospital 3 hrs away by car. But I got to ride a "Broom" (helicopter). And I wasnt able to see my special needs daughter for 3 weeks. But we face times 3 times a day. Youre a FANTASTIC DAD and if you need to cry go for it,,

[@aussiejac]

Absolutely love how you not only show your life but also your feelings. You are just so genuine.

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thank you Jacquie!

[@jackieluckyangel5610]

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🥰💞😘🍀🏴‍☠️

[@Troy_KC-2-PH]

I like how Penny answers you after everything you say to her. She's a very vocal cat 👍 🐈

[@griffinmk1]

I find you a very genuine and nice chap. Amber is a great friend and I love your life style . Thanks for letting us watch you . I really appreciate it.

[@xraygirl47]

My body ached for you Matthew when watching this. Any surgery involving bone is the most painful. I’ve had 4 finger knuckle replacements due to Osteoarthritis. So hard to control the pain during recovery. My heart aches for you. One day you will be grateful to be able to do all the things you love and hold and play with your precious little girl again. You have so much support. That is the best med. One step at a time ❤❤❤

[@Lisa_P73]

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." ❤❤❤

[@katherinespong]

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. ❤

[@reneebarger5194]

My husband set up a short stool in the tub for me to sit on in the shower. He also gave me a grip bar. My sciatica turned out to be cancer on my spine. A walker will help you to get up etc. without twisting your back. Hang in there, those of us recovering from back surgery are praying for you.

[@dross24MA]

...and praying for you in your recovery, renee!

[@robertsummers753]

dont be hard on yourself about your kid, she knows she has a GREAT DAD!!!!!!

[@yme4071]

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!

[@spyinthesky7778]

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

[@authordanigray]

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.

[@xterra4hire]

Back surgery sure has come along way in 15 years

[@VanlifePLUS]

Even more so in 50, back when my Grandmother had it

[@michelle18474]

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 😂😘🇦🇺👍🏼

[@canadiannat8960]

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. 🍀🌼🍀🌼🍀

[@DGardhouse]

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.

[@janetbales9749]

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!❤

[@naomidonovan-perry2667]

Penny was certainly enjoying your room! She’s very cute.

[@douglashoward5738]

Mathew you had a major surgery…it takes time to physically and mentally recover. Allow yourself time and space to recover and process it.😊

[@lja6420]

"There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are messengers of overwhelming grief... and unspeakable love." -Washington Irving

[@jchawkjr2]

I love Penny’s almost silent meowps. Oh and Amber. Love Amber 😂

[@sunshine47476]

Hi Matthew!! Considering the surgery you had, you seem to be doing well. Continued prayers for a speedy recovery!!

[@martna1]

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!

[@genieabbi2531]

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!

[@faithryan569]

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.

[@rgold02]

Get well soon. Hugs from Jacksonville Florida

[@cindycompton4372]

The more u walk the better u r and maybe try putting pillows under ur knees it helped me a lot at night and u had me crying when u talked about it sweet Brooklyn I went to a funeral today for a close friend her son was 23 years old and was crossing the road and Amazon van hit him I really want to thank you I love your videos they do a lot and helped a lot of people❤❤❤❤

[@Cpd0127]

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.

[@preparingthebridefaithoutr6884]

😳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 🙏.

[@preparingthebridefaithoutr6884]

All those good places to eat around the motel ...YUMMY!😋

[@doridahn1601]

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!

[@TheLeopardGirl]

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.💞

[@katherinespong]

No one can ever accuse you of being a "dead fish!" Great vid. 👍

[@audiobagvideo]

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.

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thank you very much

[@seanrobesyn7808]

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...✌️✌️✌️

[@TammeraFreno]

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 🥰💙

[@regbillings4955]

🎂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 :)

[@OnlyLoveCan38]

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.

[@richardthomas1743]

HEY! Hello Matt, Amber and Penny! I hope that all is going well. Happy 39th Matt! YAY!!

[@ketoauntie7301]

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.

[@DorkForge]

One of my favourite vlogs, not just by you, but period. The shots cutting into the x-ray were fantastic, your vulnerability was inspiring. I would have killed for a father that not only felt as you do here but had the courage to express it. You're a hell of a human, Matthew, stay positive.

[@VanlifePLUS]

Very high praise, thank you so much - I appreciate it

[@capaddler]

So sorry to hear you had so much pain 😢 and how much you missed Brooklyn. Great vlog and it did go by fast. 🍀🍀💚

[@kathywrightjohnson6804]

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.

[@jasonbrouse4635]

i dont like hearing that. but you aint quitting yet. so thats promising.

[@kathywallis3130]

Happy Birthday Matt. We love you. Hope for speedy recovery.

[@cynthiasimmons8322]

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.

[@cardkast1499]

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. 🤜🤛

[@VanlifePLUS]

Very kind words dude, thank you

[@maxinemaass1406]

I've said it before, you are a wonderful father and seeing your emotions because you miss Brooklyn was proof of that! When I had back surgery, 2 things helped, but of course each doctor is different. I had a removable body cast that held my mid-section in place. I could take it off for showers and sleeping, but it stabilized my spine which was great. The other thing was a grabber! It helped with getting socks on and picking up things that I dropped. Eventually you will feel the benefits of your surgery in a good way and in the meantime, everyone is thinking of you, and concerned about you! That's because you are you, a good person!

[@cynthiabailey7452]

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 ❤

[@dross24MA]

Glad to see you up and moving about. The two biggest laughs of the video for me? 1. Every time you show the bed with the cat blanket and Penny is on the other bed. 2. Penny in the mesh carrier, crying to get out even though the door was open. She is so freakin' cute!!!

[@Valerygallery]

Letting yourself feel your feelings is the best way to process. I can't believe you're 39 you look so young. Not saying that that's old at all. You just look like you're younger. Your sweet little Penny is really loving her vacation with you. She's your little healer. It's so cute when she was watching you eat your meal. She seemed very fascinated. Nice you had your mom and dad there and your little girl. Of course you're super amazing friend Amber also.❤

[@AngiesASMR]

You have family that is willing to help! Let them! You are lucky and blessed to have that!

[@loretta6240]

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 ❤❤ 🙏

[@brendasweetapple7444]

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

[@Linda-xb5ol]

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 ❤❤

[@lorenaakins4481]

i have never commented but just want you to know that i am praying for you, and am sure that many others are too. Back surgery is never easy. .

[@VanlifePLUS]

I appreciate you watching and supporting - thank you

[@nancy27c]

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.

[@chantalduplessis7928]

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 💚

[@addisonjohnston9927]

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.

[@MightyPenn]

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. 😊

[@ServeLearnTeach]

Your filming and editing are spot on. Thank you for opening up to us who care about you and Penny. God bless you and bring relief.

[@BY504A]

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.

[@rajanikumari3672]

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.

[@carolyns9687]

It is a process with good days & not so good days. The not so good days will become less, and then it will be only good days. Give yourself time to heal. Belated HAPPY BIRTHDAY 🥳

[@FrethKindheart]

Seeing that robe made me realize I need one. Man that thing looks comfy.

[@angelapietras1235]

Hope you start feeling better very soon,love the dressing gown.

[@freedomdove]

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.

[@LittleMo777.]

Kids can make you cry all of their lives! Sometimes it’s a bad cry but mostly a good cry.Mine are in their 40s and it’s still the same! Enjoy the ride! ❤ You’ll feel better soon. Just hang in there!

[@lisaking9659]

Prayers for you! Hang in there. Hope tomorrow and the day after are better. 🙏

[@preparingthebridefaithoutr6884]

🙏

[@genieabbi2531]

I hated seeing you in so much pain as well. But you are strong, stronger than you think, look how far you've come.

[@canadiancorporal3501]

Hey Matthew awesome to see you up and about... Just take it easy and don't rush it... I felt like you after knee surgery and said that I was feeling better and boy was that a mistake..... All the best my friend from Nova Scotia

[@ladyc659]

Happy birthday Matthew. Have a speedy recovery.

[@ANoss13]

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!

[@bradotto6841]

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

[@arleneesserine1766]

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 .

[@lgDukeCity5018]

@arleneesserine1766 Wishing him a speedy recovery from surgery and after treatments.

[@phyl1042]

💝❤️👍

[@cathymc8365]

hugs girl, you have more than a full plate going on. Best wishes for you both!

[@karenferguson8426]

Saying a prayer for you both tonight… hugs

[@susancaleca4796]

Kods are resilient , everything will be fine

[@bonniejackson1321]

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.

[@JustCameronAndHisJeep]

It will get better, you know that. I know the feeling though... so many years missing my kids... as soon as they left or I dropped them off. They are my world, just as Brooklyn is yours.

[@deborahbrunetti8500]

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.

[@treetopflyer8952]

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.

[@martna1]

Feliz Cumpleanos! Those are some serious screws in your back! I used to transcribe those surgeries at a Level I trauma hospital for 17 years, 16 working from home.

[@ketoauntie7301]

I use to transcribe too, until ALL the work went overseas & then voice recognition took over. 😭

[@martna1]

@@ketoauntie7301 My job went from Ohio to NJ. Voice recognition too.

[@martjebicker9168]

Yes Matt the first couple weeks are hard. But all of a sudden you will realize hardly any pain

[@lisagood6805]

I had the same surgery, I suggest you get one of those grabber gadgets, it was a life saver.

[@richardthomas1743]

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.

[@ketoauntie7301]

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.

[@rythemzlatin]

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 ! )

[@robinkirk4020]

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

[@kimbrueck7811]

Well dude, you had me laughing, crying, smiling and cheering you on. It’s awesome to see your progress and excellent putting in the work of resting and walking. Thanks for being so real with us. Continued prayers for a full recovery. ❤️❤️❤️ Penny seems to be living her best life!!!

[@martjebicker9168]

The walks are very good for the mind and your physical healing.

[@hikersmama8813]

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 .

[@naomidonovan-perry2667]

Hello Matthew and Penny!

[@glennarussell4682]

You did that !! You are doing great Matthew. Loved ones should be proud of you. I know Brooklyn will be someday. When watching your videos, she will realize, it was all for her. It is very evident, to me. Van life (Boundaries), Co-Parenting (Compromising), Problem Solving and Taking Care of Your Physical Health. I have great respect for you Matthew. Job well done, sir. Thumbs up and prayers for a speedy recovery. Love from, S. California,

[@missy4cdts]

Your so very blessed to have your family and friends to help you and I know they don’t mind at all ! Everyday you will feel a little better just take it easy! Thanks for sharing ❤😊

[@johnmclernon5170]

So glad to see you getting well and keeping a level head when times were getting tough, onward and upward

[@christinegarcia369]

Never think them opening your back is a small thing REST Mathew..heal naturally let your body do it's job

[@ruthanderson1758]

The housecoat does look warm and fuzzy but I have to say, you looked like an old bag lady taking stuff across the parking lot to Lucky. Don't when exactly when you're heading back to Edmonton but I know as of today (2023-10-23), they've received their first big snowfall and it's heading south to Calgary - hopefully you won't have to deal with any of it.

[@VanlifePLUS]

Rest easy - these vlogs are still delayed a bit. Thank you for the continued support

[@turtlegram31656]

Oh Matthew it will take a little time but you will feel better. You are entitled to be grouchy and sad. The now sucks but the future is bright 🐢🐕🌺❣️🤪✨🐕🐢

[@lynnfrost5244]

Happy birthday🎉.glad to see you walking upright..am praying for you to have a safe recovery..cuddle to penny.

[@Jennie-405]

Hi Matthew 👋 I'm so happy to see you taking life by the horns blessings youda man 🤗👍🙏🙏🫵🫵🫵

[@terryshaw3493]

Aww, you such a wonderful Daddy. Go ahead and cry (I am). Nice robe - very nice gift! God bless Amber. That is really good that pain is lessening, at least a bit. I sure hope I don't ever need back surgery. Does not look like much fun. I can almost feel your pain. Wishing you a quick full recovery. Wow, you have made great progress. Love to you and Penny, and Brooklyn, and Amber.

[@mariannejennisch9293]

It’s not fun but its nice to have that crutch. You are in recovery mode. It’s a very necessary wonderful tool. ❤take care thanks for sharing your experience.

[@kathywrightjohnson6804]

Oh buddy, way to make us cry. Brooklyn is why you had the surgery. So that you can be there for her. So that you can be the daddy you physically want to be.so you can pick her up for the cuddles and giggles. I am glad you didn't wait over ten years fighting the pain of your back getting worse. I wish I had dealt with mine years ago. Maybe I would be healthier all around if I did.