Quote:
Originally Posted by Jennifer 1967
With the doctor’s strong recommendation, we’re headed to the emergency room tomorrow where all the results for his tests to this point will be waiting. He agreed and we’re going finally. I hope they admit him and observe him for a few days or at least until they figure out why the liver enzymes are so out of whack.
My daughter gave me some hard truths and I needed to hear them. I do need to realize how precarious his health is. I’d always planned on caring for him after mom passes. That may not be the case. I do need a plan to handle the grief and worry before it makes me sick and I’m no use to anyone. I do need to see my therapist once a week through this nightmare. I do need to take breaks. I do need to get adequate sleep.
I’m so relieved we have a plan.
Warm regards to all and hugs to those that are struggling.  |
Hi Jennifer, I wanted to see how you are doing since I, for the time being, are around in the dep forums (as you know).
You are kind and good at thinking about others, but your daughter is right. You have your own disease. You have to put your own needs first, not because you are selfish, but because if you neglect your form of sickness, you will not last long or become worse.
Even if your daughter is grown up, she needs to feel safe in knowing that her mother follows doctors recommendations. I hope I'm not disturbing your inner peace of mind by saying that. I only want you to see that even if you cannot help your brother the way you want, life can have lots of other opportunities for you. You can be useful in other ways.
I am glad because you see a "proper" therapist now. Yes, you need to take your breaks and get adequate sleep. You have to use "an inner hammer" to repeat again and again that you have this disorder and try to be responsible for your own wellness. (I know you will). Backslides come from time to time, but you will learn to recognize them along the road, so you can bring yourself back again at the road that fits you and you only. ACCEPTANCE of your own disorder is the key to a good life. Hope you don't feel that I am an intruder in your life saying so, but so it is with everything, acceptance of whatever comes in one's road gives the best opportunity to make the best out of it. I found this out by myself with regard to my physical disorders.
Remember there can come a time when your daughter will bring you a grandchild. May be she does not have any plans about that now, but one day ...
What I mean to say is that life can let many good surprises come your way, if you follow doctor's recommendations and use your kind caring sides on yourself!
I have prayed for you!
Sending good wishes and hopes your way!
