11/3/25 - October Comments
Good afternoon!
As promised earlier this month, we're beginning the new month with reader emailed comments received in October. This is instead of trying to use the somewhat awkward comments feature in the Ghost newsletter platform. On the first weekday of each month, the newsletter will be a run-down of comments sent the previous month.
To send a comment any time, email me at: apulrang@icloud.com.
This month there were two responses to my question about strategies for coping with everyday, non-disability illness in 10/9/25 - Catching up:
First: Come out of denial (sometimes this takes days) and stop expecting to do the usual work and routines. Second: Talk to the doctor. Even if I think I already know what they will tell me. I've been surprised. Third: If I have to take prednisone, begin "mania protection routines" (that's another email). Fourth: Stack up on books and movies. Realize that the luxury of all the time in the world to enjoy these things will turn to restlessness and boredom within a couple of days. Fifth: Ask a few friends to share some telephone time to help with the boredom. Sixth: Lay low for longer than you want or think you need. I have chronic lung limitations and usually the illnesses go right to my lungs. So, even if it is called "a cold" it feels like an exacerbation of my disability. And, about the 5 things above. I never seem to take my own advice as much as I imagine I should. LOL.
When I get sick (which is extremely rare, maybe once or twice in the past 5 years?) I get hit hard and am out of commission whether I want to be or not. Since I"m a single parent with very little support, my kids are usually completely on their own when i'm knocked out, sick. They are all pretty independent and self-sufficient to begin with, but I've noticed that they actively care for me now if I'm down, without even being asked. So I guess... My sick strategy is just to give my kids free reign.
Thank you Adrienne and Meriah for your perspectives and ideas!
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