Wednesday, May 09, 2007

I finally gave in and did it

Since travelling with Pastor and Sis. Martin to Kentucky last week, I have suffered a definite set-back with my hips and back. I have really had difficulty walking. Oh, but I've gone to great lengths to let them know that it isn't their fault. We had such a great time and who would have guessed that travelling would have done this to me? And I'd probably go again next week if they wanted to! But my hips have been going a little weak at different times and that has really had me concerned. I went to Dr. Gedeon on Monday and he encouraged me to keep moving, but agreed that the travelling might have very well caused me to suffer the setback. Also, that same day, I read a letter to Dear Abby in the local paper. One of the letters concerned the owner of a business who told about an employee of his that was having difficulty walking. He said that this man was a great asset to the company and he did not want to get rid of him but his concern was that the man would not use any assistance in helping him walk, i.e. a wheelchair , walker. Instead, this man would cling to the wall or hold onto things in order to get around. The business owner was concerned because this just did not look professional. He was asking Abby how he might approach this man about getting a walker, wheelchair or some other device to help him navigate in a more professional manner.

Well, I must tell you that I felt a little pricked in my conscience. I thought: "Lord, are you trying to tell me something?" You see, I am in the same situation as the man needing the walking assistance but being reluctant to get it. At the banquet Sunday afternoon, I had had to have someone meet me at my car and help me into the auditorium. Then my niece helped to our table. My sister, Bev, helped me out to my car. Now, I don't mind this help at all. In fact, I need it. But since I've gotten a bit worse, I've really had to hold onto people and things and so on. I haven't gone shopping or to the library when by myself because I've been unsure of just how I would be able to manage getting to the buildings until I was able to get a cart or find something to hold onto.

Soooooooo........yesterday, a dear lady at our church offered me her rollator walker to use, as she doesn't like it. I had been thinking of getting one but they are a bit costly. You see, a regular walker isn't quite what I need and I had noticed that when I am pushing a shopping cart, I do really well in walking. Anywayyyyy........here is my new travelling companion:

I actually think it is going to help in strengthening my back and legs once again. Sis. Pam couldn't believe how fast and good I was walking last night with my new helper. I might even get the nickname "Speedy" before it is all over with ! *grin* Okay, okay, I might be getting a little ahead of myself. But I can't begin to tell you how good it feels to know that I can go places now by myself without having to depend so much on others to help me. I'll keep you posted as to my progress.
Oh...and I'm thinking of getting some streamers for the handlegrips and, who knows, maybe I might even get a horn! The possiblities are endless! *smile*

"He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,

When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.
His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,

His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again."

5 comments:

MotherT said...

I thought I saw you with this just at the beginning of service, but then I didn't see it again later.

The rolling walker that Mom has is responsible for her freedom to take the bus to the library and be at home alone while Ross and I work! What a blessing!

Jewel said...

Yes, well, I am trying to see it as a blessing, Theresa. I just think that, okay, I am not as old as your mother. *feeble grin* And, yet, I am thankful for it because it is helping me in getting around. Yes, I said hello to your mother last night and saw her "travelling companion" there at her side. *smile*

chantell said...

Awww, Jewel, it'll be okay. I wanted to give you a big hug after reading that. The upside is that you'll have more freedom and it will help you improve. ;-)

Anonymous said...

The horn is cool, but I would ax the streamers. Isn't life better when your not so stubborn?

Love ya.

Tony

Jewel said...

Thank you, Chantelle, that is so sweet of you. I'm trying to keep a positive attitude about my travelling companion and I am reminding myself that it is going to be a great help to me. I'll keep you posted as to how I am doing!
Well, I'm not so sure that I was being stubborn, Tony, but then again, maybe I was and just didn't realize it,hm? You've been here, hm? It is definitely reassuring to know that I am not completely on my own now when I am out by myself and I KNOW you know how that feels! *smile* And yes, life is better since the walker. *grin*