As I picked up a medical manual detailing the brain and scanning—EEG, CAT scan, MRI, and others—I recalled my pre-retirement plans: to learn how to take a decent photograph, perhaps undertake a horticultural course, and even develop my animal husbandry training in support of the opening of an animal sanctuary, which had been a long-held dream of mine. It was a dream I intended to achieve to facilitate work experience and education for those who, like Marc, find life a little more challenging, and need additional support
Alas, plans change, as they do for many, and I never did do any of that stuff, instead, I find that my retirement studying is more geared towards medical matters so that I can understand and use my understanding to firstly, help support Marc, and secondly, to be able to talk with specialists and consultants in a meaningful way. And so also to be able to question and offer the inevitable reminders of how one suggested treatment can impact adversely on another condition he suffers with.
I guess, out of all this, came the opportunity to write as I sit so often alongside Marc, supporting him, and in doing so, maybe create awareness of hidden struggles that many go through. Not what I planned, but I can say that my shift in focus and has helped in our support of Marc, which, I firmly believe, has helped keep him alive, especially when told by more than one consultant, had he been in care, he would not have survived to the age he has.
Along with supporting Marc – you have helped others with your writing
I hope that is true, if only in some small part, Nora. Thank you so much 🙂