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I couldn’t believe this was happening to me. The pain told me I wasn’t delusional. 

The throbbing running up and down my leg hurt. It is a real pain in the butt, literally. 

My everyday active life has come to a screeching halt.

I am sharing with you my experience because several things I had in my life and cupboards were helpful when this came to be.  Also, I am communicating insights I gained from “this lovely experience” because the probability of something physically happening to us increases as we age. 

First, I have developed a severe case of sciatica, which is not easy to diagnose. It can happen at any age but does increase when you are older.  I think it happened because I went on an easy hike of about four miles on July 4. I have not walked that far in months. The next day, my hips hurt, and I felt like they were out of gear. 

 Often, sciatica goes away in time. Mine went away a little, and then I played some pickleball games in mid-July. It got worse and worse. One Sunday in August, I could not stand upright, and my neighbor took me to the emergency room. I followed up with a visit to my doctor.  As of this writing, some days I can walk upright, and others I can’t. 

Yes, more tests are scheduled. But the purpose of this blog is to share with you what I had in my house that helped and what I have learned when I am no longer able to grocery shop, drive, change the sheets on my bed, water plants, and feed the birds, take the dog for a walk,  or attend a fabulous party.  

Food

Thank goodness for the can of soup and box of cheese and mac in my cupboard.

Obtaining food has been challenging.  When I could drive, I used the pick-up service at Safeway. (In my community, that is the name for this store, even though they are owned by Albertson’s.) I have no financial connection to Safeway. I find them easier to work with than Kroegers.  Safeway food delivery was a disaster when I couldn’t drive because they use an outside service.  Safeway did connect me with DoorDash, which I knew little about, and associated the company with COVID-19.  My favorite store is a long way from my house. I need to investigate what they offer for delivery. I miss the organic food, veggies, and my favorite ice cream.  My best solution is to place a store order and have a friend, neighbor, or family member pick it up for me.

Drive My Car

I feel comfortable driving when the pain is gone, and the trip distance is minimal. I do not take my dog with me because if something happens, I cannot care for her. Suddenly, it is a big deal to go to the ATM, pet store, hardware store, etc. Friends and neighbors help. I make donations to their favorite charity in their name since they refuse compensation. 

Change the Sheets on My Bed

I have found a cleaning service that comes in to do this and other household chores, such as vacuuming and cleaning the bathroom and kitchen. Fortunately, I can pay using a  Venmo account instead of my scarce cash. 

Water Indoor and Outdoor Plants and Feed the Birds

A petsitter I have used for years comes over to take care of these items one hour after getting off work from her job. She does these activities when I am gone and knows how to do them.  I pay her with Venmo and so appreciate her help and companionship. 

Take the Dog for a Walk

Our wonderful neighbor comes over most days at 8 a.m. to walk my dog, Dolly; I donated to a pet rescue organization in his and his wife’s name.

Attend a Wonderful Party

Oh, I so wanted to go to this annual party. I had to text and let them know I could not come. It is hard not to do my usual social activities.  Several friends have stopped by for a visit. Their companionship is invigorating. I use Facebook for contact with friends. 

Insights and Benefits

I’ve had time to assess how I want to spend my time. The beauty of nature is fantastic. I take time to watch the leaves change color. My mother’s words came to me, “When life gets tough, put your lipstick on!” 

Note: Any company or organization does not financially support this blog.

Copyright – Elizabeth J. Wheeler, September 22, 2023

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