I'm sorry about your break but you will find that you aren't alone here at MBL..(so many nice ppl to give advice and even support you when you are down)..I also broke my fib near the ankle 11 weeks ago falling down 4 steps & was lucky that I didn't need surgery either..I was first put in a splint at the ER then the following week my OS put me in the boot..I stayed in it until 2 weeks ago and now walking with one crutch..I was xrayed every time I went for a visit and you will probably be back in the boot again after your cast is removed..I do most of my shopping online and this year gift certificates will be the way I do Christmas because I am not going to risk fighting the crowds this time of year with my leg still in the healing process..Good luck Lea and I will check in on you to see how things are going..((hugs)