The more
things change...
Six impossible things before breakfast
But what of the other things we might have to
do without? We mentioned sport – and we’d be
interested to hear what sporting activities you’ve
continued to enjoy. One in particular – swimming –
falls into that category of things that are suddenly
a lot more difficult post op.
Swimming is a perfect example of the kind of thing
that might seem impossible when facing up to life
as a lary or trachi, but it isn’t actually all that farfetched to think about being able to swim again a
little further down the line. You will have to take
some special classes and prove your proficiency,
but ardent swimmers do at least know that there
is a very good chance that they will be able to
get back in the water and start to enjoy a former
passion all over again.
Of course, the recovery stage can make other
sporting activities more difficult too. You might
find yourself more prone to getting out of breath
as you adjust to your new circumstances. And
again, it will take time and perseverance to begin
to enjoy your sports in the same way again.
Difficult, but never impossible.
A new path
In cases where, for whatever reason, it’s not
possible to continue to enjoy an activity, what do
you do then? Is it possible to replace that activity
with something else? Well, if you’re looking for
inspiration, the pages of The Voice Magazine are
full of accounts of people seizing their opportunity
to start again and try a whole new range of
activities.
We’ve heard from first-time poets, writers and
artists – all keen to find new and exciting ways
in which to express themselves. Many of you
have joined clubs and groups for the first time
– For you the experience has instilled a need to
share, to listen and to laugh along with others
who understand what you’re going through. And
these are both really positive examples of things
that might have actually improved in your life
since the operation.
Will you really miss it?
Actually, there aren’t many things that you’ll
have to give up forever. And the main one or two
on the list come under the heading: potentially
enjoyable but not good for your overall health.
Everything else is doable – with practise.
So is it a case of the more things change,
the more they stay the same? Actually, we’d
rather think it’s a case of gaining a whole
new perspective on life. And all those new
experiences can only make you stronger.
Ultimately that question of enjoyment is moot
for most readers. A life-saving operation means
a second chance and a whole new life. Who
isn’t prepared to make a few sacrifices for an
opportunity like that?
What have you given up and how has your life
changed without it? We’d love to hear... ?
Summer 2010 | THE VOICE
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