After at least a month, I CAN WALK. It is amazing how the little things count now. I was having such a hard time, even with the cane. My wrists and ankles have felt broken. I have been feeling pretty worthless/low self esteem. Yesterday I took my Enbrel and today - I actually spent two 15 minute sessions outside raking leaves. I loved it.
Brett has slowly but surely become more and more supportive. He realized how desperately depressed I was getting. I got my retirement check and we paid ahead on house payments, paid off some bills and he let me indulge in my favorite hobby now. Saltwater aquariums. I used to have one but did not have the time to keep it healthy. Now I almost live for my aquariums.
I have three. One freshwater bow tank, one reef hexagon tank and a reef 50 gallon. One in bedroom and the other two in livingroom. I have been buying most of my livestock off Craig's list. I spend all my time reading about reef critters and caring for my critters. We moved the couch so I am right up against my favorite tank. It leaves no room in the livingroom but my lovely family lets me keep it there. I stare at my fish for hours. I have my coffee with my fish.
We are finding more and more things I CAN do. I fold all the clothes. I organize things if it can be brought out to coffee table, drawers and such. I have given up on cooking all together. I cannot stand more than five minutes at a time. I beg the family to give me chores I can do so I feel like I am contributing. It really helps my self esteem.
I have been re-teaching myself to read. I am also going to get some crossword books, etc. to try to get my brain back. The pain meds have pretty much deleted my memory. My family has finally "got it" I think. I just DON'T REMEMBER
I could not go to water therapy for a week. I go back next week. Things are looking up. I miss you guys. It is wierd. I would never have the energy to visit other boards but even with the members ever changing - AI is my home and I love coming here. I read your posts daily even if I cannot post. My dexterity in my hands have really been shot and I drop things a lot. Typing is hard but better today.
Anyway, I am appreciating the little things. My family is GOOD. Amazes me I ever complained about Brett. He has been such a sweetheart this last month. The kids get along great and keep me entertained. RA has taught me to appreciate the little things and I find myself less depressed. So you guys keep on writing, you are an important part of my day. LOVE
Thats wonderful Roxy!! It really is the little things! I hope life continues on the up sweep for you!Fantastic news Roxy, finally its getting better for you. I know what you mean about fish, my daugher has 3 tanks, but they are tropical. You must be a very good fish mum to have salt water tanks. Any chance you could post a photo up for us?
Keep up the good spirits and tell Brett and the kids they are fantastic
Now don't over do it. Even when you feel like you can move the fridge.....try to remember you can't!! A good part of feeling good is prevention. You have to learn to protect yourself.
I'm glad for you Roxy but for heaven's sake listen to Lovie... do not over do it! Even 15 minutes is a lot of raking for somebody with 'broken' wrists who could stand for 5 minutes. EASY EASY DOES IT!!!Yes Roxie, we dont want two steps forward and one back, we want one step at a time, all forward . Take care now!You sound good, Roxy - full of hope and possiblity. I second Lovie - DON'T overdo. I'm glad you're finally getting a break. I am taking it slowwwwwwwwwwww and appreciating what I CAN do.It's so good to hear from you and that you're in such good spirits
It must be such a relief that Brett is supporting you now. I'm happy for you!