We Are Done With Breakfast, Where Do You Want To Go For Dinner?
Living With a Disability Requires Tons of Planning
The three lame dames in Wayne, Maine had just finished their breakfast. Some background:
Pamela, who is unable to drive due to vision problems caused by her stroke, said, “OK, where do you guys want to go for dinner?” Amelia and I have recovered enough from our strokes to be able to drive for many years. I said, “Pam, we just finished breakfast, why are we talking about dinner?”
Her explanation made perfect sense. She explained what life is like when you have to rely on others to get around in rural Maine. She said she has to plan everything very far in advance. I have lived with a similar disability for nearly 20 years so I well understood this concept of needing to constantly plan for things when I’ll need help. Fortunately, driving places is not something I’ve needed help with. Amelia and I looked at each other with that look of “Wow”. We realized how lucky we are. Our lives had each been dramatically changed at age 35 when we had severe strokes. Our time spent together is precious because we share this unique life changing experience.
We decided on a restaurant for dinner by 9:00 AM so Pam could call her parents to make plans for that evening.
I have always been something of a planner, but becoming disabled has brought the necessity of it to another level. This experience with my more limited friend reminded me to always be grateful for all that I can do.
Don’t take your life for granted.
Thank you for reading :)
