By: Cathy Garrott
I am very much looking forward to a visit from my brother and his wife … the first time in 33 years that anyone from my family has come to see me in Japan. I’ve tried to take little steps in preparation for their visit, so that I would not be stressed and exhausted by their time in my home. Here it is, 2 days before their arrival and suddenly I am dealing with stiff joints, trouble walking, exhaustion, balance. This sneaked up on me without my realizing it! Is this how it’s going to be? Is this enemy going to control the special time I’ve so been looking forward to for the past several months? I am determined to not allow it to be so!!!
Stress comes in many forms, according to my doctor. There are good things as well as bad things that give us stress. Weddings, graduations, the birth of a baby, visits from loved ones or friends that fill us with joy … each of these can produce as much stress in our body as dealing with the loss of a loved one through sickness, death, divorce, moving, etc. can dump on us. The PD body reacts to stress in many ways, and often it takes us completely by surprise. We can choose how we react and respond to it, even if we cannot control what is happening. I choose joy, thanksgiving, setting aside time to rest a bit throughout the day as needed. They will understand and help me deal with it. I can climb this mountain that looms in front of me with the love, understanding, and encouragement of my loved ones!
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