My accident slowed me down for a bit – but I am back baby!
2020 was a hard year for most. Isolation, seclusion, lack of touch and belonging were some of the struggles to list a few. This year has made me think back to my time in the hospital after my accident. I remember seeing many fellow patients without visitors for days, weeks and sometimes months at a time. Some living through a “loneliness pandemic” way before 2020 hit.
I remember patients morales being low and thinking to myself – after I get better, I need to get into the business of “Happiness”! Spreading happiness and reminding people why they continue to fight, is a job that is much needed- especially now! Unfortunately, most patients at one point or another forget why they continue to fight. 2020 has made us all patients in a sort of “loneliness Pandemic” – and can make us empathize how hard it must be for those brave people in our hospitals right now.
I cannot help but think that this year would have been the perfect year to execute a Happiness project. 2021 – get ready.
Personally, these past two years have taught me my biggest life lessons yet. Enduring pain & struggle are both humbling and life changing. I can honestly say, I have come out a stronger and a better person for the challenges I have faced.
During the course of these past years I survived a near fatal accident, had 5 surgeries, worked hard through rehabilitation (physiotherapy, PTSD therapy, Occupational therapy) to relearn how to walk, bathe and simply live with new body challenges. I also, started working, opened a business, fell in love and bought a house.
My current battle as we enter 2021 has been going through pain medication withdrawal as my doctors slowly lower my doses as well as, getting through this COVID-19 pandemic – just like everyone else.
I believe 2020 has taught us to not take things for granted – just like my accident, you never know what will happen therefore, don’t waste your time…
In the midst of these past two years I have learned a handful of lessons that I would like to share with all of you:
- Spreading Happiness is Easy & Important: Remember a smile, compliment or a simple hello can make a HUGE difference to someone. You may be the only person someone see’s throughout the day. Do not ignore or shy away from your responsibility to spread joy – the little things are what add up.
- You Are Not Alone: The great thing about 2020 is that we are all going through this strange time together! We are all patients in this “loneliness Pandemic” therefore, make sure to share your feelings with the people around you. You will be surprised at how many feel similarly to you. Being vulnerable heals yourself and those around you.
- Unlikely Friendships Are The Best Friendships: My best friends in rehab were 50+ years older than me – yet these people became my world. They were the best people to talk to, had so much wisdom and knew exactly what I was going through. Don’t judge a book by its cover – you never know what kind of fairytale you’ll embark on.
- Perspective: Everyone’s feelings are valid. Remember to empathize and walk a mile in someone else’s shoes. I guarantee you, a lesson will be learned.
- Amazon is NOT your friend: Don’t rely on external shopping to show up for you. Sorry to tell you, it won’t. Invest your time in people, self development and your body. These are things that will matter as you live your life and age. Not the new spoon holder you bought to match your kitchen set.
- Invest in your Health: Your body was given to you. Take care of it. My body functions changed from one day to another NOT by choice. Remember, you have the power to choose – what a privilege. Make the best of your choices because, they matter.
- Community: The importance of community is key. This is what gets us through the hardships. Remember you are a part of many communities – reach out to them.
- Nature Heals: Go outside. Breath the fresh air. Play.
- Family is KEY: Family can get you through anything. Trust, lean, listen and learn. They have the answers – simply take the time to listen, love and appreciate.
- Be Kind to yourself: It is ok to not have the energy. It is ok! it is ok! it is ok! Take the pressure off your shoulders. Be your own best friend and simply be ok with who your are at this exact moment in time. BREATH. Take time for you!
Remember, hindsight is 20/20: It is easier for one to be knowledgable about an event after it has happened. I want to know, what lessons have your learned in 20/20 that will continue on in your life today?
