I’m learning I need to focus on what I can do and not on what I can’t. Due to my recovery from brain surgery a month ago and a seizure this week, I am going to be limited this summer.
There are times I think of all I’ll miss out and be unable to do. But I need to reframe and focus on what I am able to do, even small things.
Most importantly I’m here. My focus will be on getting stronger and able to do as much as I can around the house so that I can get closer to “normal” even if it takes awhile as is often the case with brain surgery. Just being around the kids keeps me going, whether we read, play games or watch TV together.
I won’t be able to drive for awhile which is going to be hard because I used to take the kids to a lot, but I’ll figure out ways to get out with the help of family and friends.
I won’t be able to do a lot of walking for awhile but I can do short outings and continue to build up my endurance.
I got fishing supplies so we can go to local lakes as a family and try a new hobby I can sit and watch. We went to different lakes just days after I got out of the hospital following my seizure and had a great time even we have yet to catch any fish!
I love taking the kids to see different characters and Chris and I took the girls to see Ariel from the new Little Mermaid. The event was at a small consignment store and not crowded and it felt so good to be out.
We are going to try to catch one of the local Memorial Day parades today, whichever one seems easiest to get in and out of. If we can continue to do these small things, it will help me so much as I try to get closer to normal.
I will need to rely on rides to do things which is ok. My dad has been a huge help and has brought the boys to most of their baseball games. I should be able to return to work as I can write my stories and do my updates from home. This would be another step towards normalcy and the closer I can get the better for me and my mood.
Since I can’t move much and am on steroids I will be gaining weight and that doesn’t matter. I’m here and that’s all that matters. While I feel like I am constantly eating I am trying to eat cleaner than ever and a lot of brain healthy foods: more fruits and veggies, more protein, really limiting sugar, adding turmeric, flax seed and chia and a lot of olive oil and nuts.
I will start radiation in two weeks and do whatever else is needed to stay on top of my health and keep me here as long as possible.
While we may not be able to go to the shore or on as many outings as we are used to that is not what is important this summer. This summer is about living in the moment and getting stronger and enjoying being with my family who are my world. It’s about focusing on what I can do not on what I can’t. It won’t be easy but with a lot of support and staying positive I can get through because I’m one tough mother.
