Celebrating Independence
What is independence for many who rely on wheelchairs or assistive devices and don't have the luxury to take a trip to the beach and walk along the sand? How about wading in water? Playing in the surf?
Some people may dream of cooking on a BBQ grill and having friends over for a picnic to celebrate the 4th of July but are unable to manage the tasks required of it. Some will try very hard but may hurt desperately later on. Others have too may barriers to even try.
This blog post starts out sounding rather depressing. However, it is important to try and think of the positives in life. And yes - people with chronic pain and physical limitations can continue to enjoy some independence in their life, although they may have to accept the support of others in order to enjoy it.
How about getting together with some true friends and watching fireworks at a public place? Most public places are required to be handicap accessible, so take advantage! Maybe you can't get right on the sand, but how about getting to a boardwalk and overlooking the sand and surf? Enjoy the sounds and smells of the seashore. Picture in your mind the sounds of seagulls flapping their wings and screeching at the people as they wait for food scraps to drop.
Can you enjoy a caramel apple or some cotton candy? How about some popcorn or a slice of pizza? Funnel cakes are one of my favorites.Oh they are messy - but that is okay...bring some moist towelettes along and use them to freshen up and clean up any sticky powder sugar and such.
What about using your backyard to host a few friends? You supply the grills and some food and they bring along anything they like to cook. Maybe you or some one in your family can make a great salad and assist with the side dishes while someone else runs the grill!
Be creative! Sure there maybe some things you will have to forfeit this 4th of July. But remember the things you can do and set out to do them.
To avoid the inevitable aches and pains that come with extending yourself, consider taking a little medication prior to events so you can feel more comfortable during and require less meds after. Put in a plan to rest briefly between major events like traveling and eating or eating and then watching fireworks. And how about planning that nice warm tub of bubbles to end your day so you can feel refreshed and relaxed when you do hit the sheets for the night.
If you travel, plan to break up the trip with short stops to get out and walk about rather than driving non-stop for hours. Plan your timing to help avoid the heavier travel hours. Give yourself plenty of time.
Even though you may need to be creative and cope with a few barriers, it is okay to get out there and celebrate independence. There is so much to be thankful for. Focus on those things. Try it! You may be surprised and pleased at just how great a holiday weekend you may have! I look forward to hearing about your holiday on either my Pain Management or Migraine message board here on WebMD.
Related Topics: Technorati Tags: chronic pain, independence, holiday, positive attitude
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