By Maureen Gartner
There is something about aging that involves fear of the unknown. There is loss and surrender, which causes me to fear. I am the youngest of six siblings, my oldest brother will be 85 this year. He is in good health except for chronic back issues and pain. The rest of my siblings are 83, 78, 77, and 76. I look at the next 10 years as a series of potential losses for me.
I think Parkinson’s disease is the same, a series of losses that are hard to accept. Can I get out of bed this morning? Will I be able to make the lunch date? Will my meds work today or not? Can I take a walk today, or be motivated to go to exercise class? When is there going to be a cure for this disease?
In spite of the uncertainty, I believe life must be about living each moment one at a time. The good times and not so good times. Can I appreciate the good moments and let them bring me joy? Can I accept my disease progression and willingly accept help when I need it? Where is my faith, hope, love, and joy in my life? Can I still find it and appreciate it?
I have been working with people/families with PD for almost 20 years. Many of my patients have died. I walked the journey with them and gave them the best I could. I miss them and their families! They gave me gifts I have remembered. Whether it was a grateful smile, a handwritten note, or an appreciative email, I know I touched their hearts and they made a difference in my life. I learned what caregiving was about with my own mother. And now I can empathize with my patients and their caregivers.
I am learning to appreciate moments of my life each day. My rose garden had beautiful roses last week, I have a bird nest in my awning that has allowed me to follow the growth of the young. My roses have a beautiful scent, far different than the Kroger roses! I look forward to a song that comes on the radio that brings happy memories or speaks to my heart.
Have you experienced any special moments recently? Have you shared them with someone? Life is about gratitude, let’s be thankful for moments of grace in our lives.