Smooth sailing…for now.

It has been a few days since I have written, which likely occurred because my life has been relatively smooth, and recovery likewise. I’ve had no interrupted sleep for a few nights now, no anxiety attacks, and only one or two headaches. My short-term memory remains non-existent. However, I am able to walk at a slightly swifter pace without breathing hard, and my regular blood pressure reading is relatively normal and comforting.

What I have been reflecting on is the part played in recovery by the presence and goodwill of other people. When the patient is severely hampered or debilitated, assistance is mandatory to do even the simplest things. For a formerly fully functioning person to request assistance in toileting, self-esteem can take a dive. My most difficult times were/are when I am unable to read something properly, or make simple mistakes in comprehension, and someone has to correct me or set me straight.

I am blessed with friend and family members who have been nothing but kind, helpful and supportive over the past two months and more in this regard. I’ve had cards, phone calls, people asking me in the store or the library or Tim Horton’s how I am doing, and if there s anything I need. A ‘coffee and theology’ friend has driven me here and there in town, and even to worship in another town! A Lodge Brother was gracious enough to help me pick up a repaired computer from the West Edmonton Mall on a Saturday afternoon!  No journey for the faint of heart!

Beatrix’ Continuing Education plans unfolded over the past two weeks, so she was out of town. I was quite anxious about being alone for this period. Beatrix arranged for a variety of people to stay in touch with me and be available if I need to be taken to hospital, shopping, etc. As it turned out, I didn’t need to call on them, but I was relieved to have their phone numbers handy just in case.

My children were and are a great support and comfort. Although none of them are lose by to participate in any of the “doing” that I might need, they have phoned almost daily to make sure I am alive, fed, and well. All of them are busy professionals, my son busiest of all these days. In the past few months he has been involved in the death and burial of his stepfather and his father-in-law. He was very close to both these men. Just the other day, another close older man – a man I called “friend” for over a half century – has taken ill, and I imagine Keith will invest considerable time in looking out for him over the next few months.

Of course, my life would be impossible without Beatrix. Not only impossible, but empty as well. She is a constant support, advisor, monitor, driver…and she loves me as well! How lucky can I get, to be wrapped up with someone I love and who is so loving and non-judgmental to me? I am relieved and pleased that she is home from Pittsburgh and Edmonton, and actually has this weekend for us to spend together. Hopefully this means that my life will continue to get better, at least for the time being.