Raising the Bar
I was prepared for a busy June gearing up for my commitment to cycle 100 miles to raise funds for Parkinson’s research. Then just after Memorial Day weekend, my husband injured his foot and was now in a boot with crutches and a diagnosis of Plantar Fasciitis. He has been in the boot 5 weeks and still can’t put pressure on his right heel. Who knows how long until he recovers. I’m responsible for our Cavapoo Winnie’s early morning, mid- day, late afternoon and evening walks. I am doing the driving and grocery shopping and all errands, while still finding time to exercise, do my cycling and make dinners.
To compensate for what I have designated as my limitations, Steven has taken on more than the fair share of responsibilities within our family. This pattern has led me to be more dependent and less self-sufficient than I would like. It’s been easy to lean on him and get into habits of thinking “I can’t” when in truth “I can.” As I have now taken over most of the duties (with the help of my two teenage daughters), I see that I have been imposing unnecessary limits on myself. These extra responsibilities are ones I can handle and reinforce my competencies despite having Parkinson’s. I have felt a sense of renewed accomplishment, purpose and empowerment.
Walking Winnie on a daily basis has led me to walk more frequently and cover greater distances. It gets me to our neighborhood bay, which is beautiful especially in the early morning and sunset. Before Steven’s injury, I would have avoided doing this walk because I told myself that I couldn’t do it. Likewise, it’s been good to have the opportunity to drive more often, which serves as an enormous source of independence.
It can be difficult to raise the bar for oneself when there is no particular motivation to do so. I don’t wish Plantar Fasciitis on anyone, but sometimes there are silver linings in difficult times. While living with Parkinson’s imposes many limitations that I cannot control, Steven’s foot injury is giving me the opportunity to change the way I see myself and my capabilities. I consider this a gift.
About Miriam
I share my personal stories to offer a glimpse into what it is like to live with Young Onset Parkinson’s, revealing honest and intimate reflections. Hearing other people’s stories can be a lifeline for many of us living with this neurodegenerative disease. I hope to inspire and educate people living with Parkinson’s and to create community through shared experiences.