Every day can be a step on the journey. Our journeys are varied and adventurous. They are not always thrilling or exciting. They can be frustrating and seem worthless.
It’s tough but not in the way sports players and the like claim. This is tough in a way nobody else knows. Only those with long-term life-changing conditions belong to the really tough club. Cancer, Parkinsons and MS come straight to mind along with a host of other conditions. The toughest is staying positive.
Steve
Great blog Steve. I too took medical retirement 6 years ago from a job nowhere near as challenging as yours, but which I couldn’t do to my own standards any more. I love retirement. The fatigue is manageable now and on a bad day I just vegetate with the radio. I’ve more time to spend with friends (I have a very small close knit group from way back). I also have two young grandchildren. Granted I can’t chase after them, but we do lots of crafts,cooking and storytelling. My sticks become hobby horses, guns and ‘slides’. You are absolutely right. The tough bit is staying positive. For me that’s not dwelling on what the future holds but focusing on now. Take care Sharon
I loved reading your blog Steve . You had a fun time teaching year 6 and I’m sure the ones you helped will never forget you. Enjoy the retirement days you’ve certainly earned them and it’s great that you are still having fun. Spring is nearly here and you will soon be back out in your wheelchair enjoying travelling again . Take care Michelle and Frazer xx
I was watching the news this morning and with the new corona virus they’re crying out for nurses to come out from retirement as they’re so necessary and I hate that I can’t help. I spent an hour trying to think of a way I could contribute. Conclusion is that I can’t. I was forced to retire 9 years ago and I’ve deteriorated since. I have to accept that the bits I’m doing voluntarily are enough, but I still feel guilty every time I hear of something I was once capable of doing.
Cath
Hi Cath, could you do some help line telephone work?
Your voluntary work is admirable. Bless you
Boudsx
Hi Boudica
Thanks, I’ve a few projects on the go now, I’ve just signed up to help the local university to be a “patient” for medical students as they want people with chronic conditions to enlist. As a student nurse it was sometimes really hard to find co-operative patients as approaching them while they’re feeling ill wasn’t usually the best time. If I help just one student in any way, especially understanding the illness, or using good interpersonal skills I’ll be happy. Talking on a phone isn’t a skill I have now, my attention wanders and I can’t help it. It’d suit some people really well though, as there are many lonely people who’d appreciate a call. Thanks for the suggestion, it’s something I would do if I could.
Take care
Cath