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As I said in my last post, it's National Caregivers
Month. I don't, thankfully, need "caregivers". Fortunately, I am still able to care for
myself in fundamental ways. But I DO
have a support system that is really important to me.
I know that Ron (my husband) and I, given our
"druthers" wouldn't choose my disorders. But it's five years out now, and we are
managing. He seldom complains, whether
he always "gets it" or not. In
the helping department, this probably isn't a complete list, but he drives me to
the vast majority of places I need to go, runs errands, and schleps laundry up
and down stairs (it's not the weight, but rather the balancing act). Last but not least, Ron gives me a shoulder to
cry on when needed. I'm very grateful to
have him in my life.
My daughters, college students who no longer live at home full time,
were here in the beginning, which was very hard. I know it was - and still is at times - really
difficult to have a mom with significant disabilities. But I think they know I do my best, and they
also seldom complain. I listen to them, help in ways that I can, and
try to share experiences with them when possible. They each help out and do what I ask, most of
the time, when they are home. They are
becoming truly good human beings, and I'm proud of them.
My parents (and Ron) are the only family members, to my
knowledge, who read my blog posts. My
mom and dad are always in my corner, rooting for me. Concerned but also trying to simply give
support. That means a lot to me. There are, to be honest, some family members
who have drifted as time has gone by. My
parents also give much appreciated financial help.
I'm very grateful for my friends. Most of my friends are online, and the
majority of my social contact is online.
There are a handful of very special people whom I've never met in person
- and possibly never will - but whose friendship I value tremendously.
Of course, there's my OT Joyce and VT Ann, who are both skilled,
caring individuals determined to keep helping me. Ann actually reads my blog posts, which helps
her to understand my life outside of VT.
Dr. Margolis, my Developmental Optometrist, is one of the best doctors I
know.
The Vestibular Disorders Association is not a single
person, but a wonderful resource and I'm grateful they exist, to help educate
and spread the word about these invisible disorders.
Thank you to everyone who is part of my support
system.
If you are struggling, please reach out! If you know someone who is having a really
rough time, please encourage them to reach out!
NO one has to get through this alone.
Here's a link to VEDA - www.vestibular.org
and here's a link to the National Suicide Hotline -
