Getting “legless” at Friday night drinks

I can’t recall the last time I indulged in a classic ‘Afterwork Friday Drinks.’ With my illness and the lingering effects of COVID lockdowns, it feels like long time.

A colleague recently shared that ‘Afterwork Thursday Drinks’ have become the new norm, likely due to the increased number of people working from home on Thursdays.

A spontaneous text from a couple of friends about weekend plans sparked an impromptu decision to explore the new metro line, check out a trendy bar, and perhaps cap off the night with a delicious dinner.

The New Metro in Sydney

Ever since its opening on Monday, I’ve been eager to experience Sydney’s new Metro. This high-speed train network offers a convenient alternative to traditional rail services, connecting destinations that previously lacked direct train access.

For instance, I’ve always enjoyed visiting The Wharf Theatre, but the limited public transport options and the need for taxis or ride-sharing have been a bit of a hassle. While I could catch a train to Wynyard and walk from there, the walking distance has become challenging since my right leg amputation. The new Metro station at Barangaroo is a game-changer, as it’s just a short walk from The Wharf. Personally, this new service will make a significant difference in my daily life.

My friends boarded the Metro at Sydenham, while I joined at Central Station. Our destination was Chatswood. As we traveled, there was a palpable excitement about the driverless technology, allowing passengers to stand at the front and enjoy the scenic views through the tunnels. Many children and older adults, including myself, were captivated by this unique experience.

It wasn’t until we returned on the conventional train that we fully realized the speed and efficiency of the new Metro. It’s truly an impressive addition to Sydney’s transportation network!

Maybe Sammy – Getting Legless

After our train ride we popped into the bar, Maybe Sammy which came highly recommended.

Presumably the name of the bar is a reference to Sammy Davis Junior, as the bar has a 50s rat-pack feel about it. The bar staff are dressed in a 50s night-club styles, and there was a DJ playing music appropriate to the theme.

There were lots of staff, and we felt well looked after. Still recovering from last year’s surgery, there are times when I need to remove my prosthetic limb, and the staff were wonderful in looking after my needs with appropriate seating.

We enjoyed some “happy hour cocktails”, which were  excellent.

I posted this photograph on Facebook, and challenged my friends to caption this without using the word “legless”. You wouldn’t believe how many times I’ve heard someone make the legless joke, as if they were the first person to think of it.They were very clever. referencingthe leg as a “shoey” or a “leggy”; others talked about having a “knees up” or “cast drinks”. Very funny.

After that, we had dinner at an excellent Malaysian restaurant near the QVB, and finally a drink at the Marble Bar at The Hilton.

It was such a pleasure to go out and about on a Friday night for a few drinks, a few laughs, and to enjoy lovely time with good friends.

In Other News

I should have seen the writing on the wall when my podiatrist started asking me questions about the NDIS during our last appointment. As a regular patient, I visit him every eight weeks for post-amputation care, including foot inspections, nail trimming, and general foot health advice.

When I arrived for my appointment today, the receptionist informed me that the podiatrist had resigned and there was no immediate replacement. Looking back, I realized the clues were there: the unusual conversation about the NDIS and the missing reminder text. It’s a shame he’s leaving, as I enjoyed our visits and appreciated his professionalism.

Now, I’m faced with the decision of whether to wait for a replacement at my local surgery or seek a new podiatrist. If you know of a reputable one in the Surry Hills area, please share your recommendation.

Fortunately, the blood blister on my toe has healed. However, I’ve been feeling under the weather lately, primarily experiencing fatigue. Despite taking a mid-week recovery break as outlined in my return-to-work plan, I pushed myself too hard last week, working five days straight and then overexerting myself on Saturday. This resulted in complete exhaustion by Sunday, forcing me to spend most of the day in bed.

I was eager to return to work on Monday for several reasons, including the launch of the new ABC News website. I was particularly excited about the reinstatement of the classic ABC TV news theme from the 80s, which was once remixed into a dance club hit. The original theme has now been revived and is featured on the ABC News channel and the 7pm News.

My enthusiasm stemmed not only from my love of media but also from the fact that the theme was co-composed by Peter Wall, a former manager and close friend. He was a constant source of support during my hospital stay last year.

After attending the launch, I worked from home for a few hours in the afternoon. By Tuesday, I was feeling better, and by Wednesday, I was almost back to normal.

It’s remarkable how physical health can impact emotional well-being. While I’ve experienced illness since my amputation, this was the first time I felt a significant emotional downturn. I questioned whether these feelings of fatigue would be a lifelong burden. Thankfully, I’m on the mend now.