Expectations that I build up can make me frustrated when I get opposite outcomes. I had my physical this week and was sure that the doc would tell me I could go to using oxygen only when I exercise or sleep. Instead, she reminded me that I wouldn’t get lazy lungs from wearing the oxygen and encouraged me to keep my appointment with the pulmonologist. My thought was always that by September 1st my lungs would be functioning beautifully on their own. Now it looks like I need te acknowledge that my cute oxygen concentrator will be a part of my outfit for another few months.
I came home and told myself I would be on oxygen till the first of the year. There I go again setting expectations that may or may not play out in reality. What I need to focus on is that my energy is improving, I have a portable concentrator, and I am able to do more each and everyday. Some people wear ankle weights or wrist weights when they exercise. For me it is a cute backpack that weighs a lot because it is toting a ten hour battery. Life is good even on oxygen.
Not what if but even if has been an important phrase this year in particular. Essential tremor, long Covid and a full tear on my mcl on my left knee has kept me interacting with specialists and recognizing that I am not claustrophobic during an mri. The good news or really great news is that all three are improving and I am coming out of my medically imposed rest period more and more..Life is not back to normal but I am getting closer.
Ronnie B reminds me as I am getting out more, I need to be extra cautious about germs and keeping from getting Covid or another infection. With my compromised lungs it could be a worse scenario to get the sniffles. A triumph this week was I went to the grocery store for a pretty big shop and didn’t order online or ride in a motorized cart. Then I put my purchases in the car, took them out of the car, and put them away. Then I rested. It wore me out but I was able to do it on my own. That is something I wouldn’t dream of attempting even a month ago. Time to celebrate the little things.
By the way Kroger has buy two twelve packs of coke products and get three free. Sounded too good to be true but I have the receipt to prove it. Plus I got my weight lifting in hauling those five soda packs around.Soon I will be as buff as all of you.
In Him,
Joyful
9-3-23
Oh barb- had no idea! Maybe that was why I had an inkling to call & do a coffee catchup! I am leaving for a month to the farm but WILL call you when back. Meanwhile- have faith ❤️
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