R-I-C-E: Rest Ice Compression Elevation
I had one ACL replaced at 36 (with my own patella tendon) and an ortho clean-up on the same knee about five years later, From soccer and racquetball injuries. My goal at the time was to be able to run with my two kids.
I'm 51 now, still play co-ed soccer on Sundays (as a feeble goalkeeper), but enjoy life. I can't imagine what life would be like in my seventies or eighties without knee surgery and exercise. I'd probably be dead. And I can crawl under my 'Cuda, no problemo!!
Good move Pettyblue! Rehab the knee, remember RICE! And stay young!!