Down but Not Out

I've asked Phil many times during the week how his calf has been feeling...the one he pulled a muscle in a week ago while working out with Armi. He's sounded cautiously optimistic about it each time, but never overly confident. He was able to get through his first two singles and doubles matches without over taxing it, but today his luck ran out on it. He was up 6-1, 4-0, playing great, and on a serve, he landed and reinjured the same calf. Instead of retiring out of the match (easier said than done), he tried to play through it and never won another game. He was so disappointed and I felt so bad for him. For once I could truly empathize. I had the same experience in Houston a few years ago at the clay courts. I was up 6-0, 5-1 before I begin cramping. Your mindset is "surely I can win one more game". Forget it. When your body says it's done, it's done. Phil iced his calf really good, taped it up really good and tried to play doubles. Somehow he and Brian pulled it out and now are in the semis. So all is not lost. Phil is a fighter and will never give up. I just hope he's smart about it and doesn't do more damage to his calf by continuing to play. Marilyn and I made it to Birmingham this late this afternoon. I'm so thankful for her being here. She knew exactly where to go, where to stay and where to eat. I'm really looking forward to my appointment tomorrow and hope to get some answers. I'm ready to feel normal again.