I wrote this a few weeks ago...

"Chronic pain and chronic illnesses are not for the weak."

I read this statement somewhere and it really resonated with me. Some of the strongest people are the ones dealing with chronic pain and illnesses. I can't imagine a weak person surviving or thriving in "our" world. There is nothing weak about being sick. You have to fight for yourself 24/7. Some fight to breathe, others fight to move, some fight for that moment of relief from pain, and still more and more just fight to live and see another day.

Too many people take for granted the good health they have. I watched people at the pool the other day just going about as if they had no care in the world. I wish I could do that, but I'm always planning and preparing for what may or may not happen next. Did I bring my meds? I hope my legs don't give out when I stand up. I have to remember to wear my pool shoes because the concrete kills my feet. I can't go to the lazy river until the line is shorter because I can't stand that long. I hope the kids aren't mad I can't keep getting in and out of the pool. I really can only get in and out of the one pool, which has a handicap ladder, because the ladders on the other pools are too slippery and my arms & legs aren't even strong enough to pull up my body. Did I take my pills yet? (I have to write down when I take anything because I can never remember, ever.) I feel okay, should I just stay or maybe I should go so I don't overdue it - I could bottom out at any moment. And, it goes on and on...

All this thinking is exhausting and there is usually no end to it. I'm always thinking a few steps ahead of myself. I do this for all situations. Going out is the same way. I have a mental checklist: handicap placard, cane, meds, bottle of water (for meds), sunglasses, purse...etc. Granted I don't always remember everything, but I try really hard to make sure I do. I also plan my route. Going one way versus another to save time and even down to how I take on a store. I know right where to park and what side I need to be on. Planning has become my key to dealing with limitations brought on by disease.