Celebrate What You Can Do -

My almost waterproof hiking shoes

Six years ago today, May 13th, is my lucky day.  The day talented neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons removed a rather large tumor, stabilized a section of my spine, and gave me a second chance on life.  

Walking a lot this past year, I think has helped me continue to rebuild strength.  I have walked places I couldn't for years.  I am not up to doing a triathlon today, but I can take a nice walk in the swamp, I can listen to the birds, I can feel the wind on my face, the sun on my balding head. I can venture out onto the rocks and flats, moving over and under fallen trees - to some extent.  

I could talk about the things that will never be the same.  There was permanent nerve damage.  It hurts at times.  But I am so lucky that I can feel the pain, that I can be careful when I walk- mindful of my balance.  It was my lucky day, I saw the right doctor, who had the right hunch, who sent me to the right place for scans, that would send me to the emergency room, that would land me in the care of some of the best doctors in the country.  People who gave me a chance to celebrate what I can do, everyday.  

Thanks for putting up with my annual mention of this experience. People tire of a constant tale of woe, and also are frustrated by vague mentions of health problems with no details. Hopefully my once a year mention strikes a balance.  

If you ever need someone to talk about things you are experiencing, drop me a message.  I am not a healthcare professional, I won't offer advice, but I will listen and encourage you to seek the best care, and then focus on what you can do each day, to celebrate your abilities.