Wednesday 24 September 2014

Adjustment


I'm a private person. That seems odd when you consider that I write a public blog but I'm usually sparing in what I reveal here about my personal life. I've actually sat on this post a couple of days wondering whether to say anything but sometimes you do just want to share.

Last week my bright, beautiful, funny, kind, warm-hearted and sunny-natured daughter was diagnosed with a medical condition which means she will have to take medication for the rest of her life. A potentially life-threatening condition. It's been a lot to take in and Chickpea has adjusted to the news far better than me. My mind and heart have been all over the place. The day after the news, I thought I was doing fine but, when a colleague asked how she was getting on, I had to walk off so that I wouldn't break down in the middle of the office. I've had to resist the urge to ring her every few minutes to check how she is. Which is ridiculous because, as she points out, nothing has changed except to have given something a name. She is very much of the 'que sera sera' school of thought. I love her more than words can ever possibly say.

So we're going through a period of adjustment. Working out what is the new norm and settling into a pattern. The sun continues to rise and set and we will get through this. x

12 comments:

  1. Hi Julie, It's so hard getting news about our children, and as you say they usually take these things on board better than mums do...it's not easy been a mum some times. I feel you are one of my blogging friends and you will have many out there, there will be good days and bad days to come, but we are here for you if you need a chat..
    Sending you both love and wishes..Amanda xx

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  2. I am thankful for you and yours that your daughter is going to be doing all right and has taken this as just an adjustment in her life. That is an immense blessing. Yes, as Mom's we feel this pain terribly. I have had all three of my children have different serious health issues happen that I am so thankful they are all doing great now!! I am sending you blessings and All will be Well.

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  3. It is hard when a loved one receives this kind of information. I still remember the second when the cardiologist told us that my husband had to have open heart surgery to repair the leaking mitral valve in his heart - I can play that over and over in my mind - the numbness, fright, unbelievability, questions, etc - all played out in just seconds. It has been five years since the surgery - he is doing remarkably well, works full time at age 70 (his choice, he loves his job with developmentally disabled adults), takes his medications each and every day - and yet my heart still worries at times.

    It gets easier as you adjust to the newness of it all - a new routine, a new lifestyle - but the end result is a longer and better life, when managed, and with all the good luck in the world your daughter and her great attitude will conquer this. As my husband says - on we go - upward ever!

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  4. Oh Julie, I am so sorry that Chickpea and you are having to deal with this. I send you both hugs and all my best wishes. xx

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  5. Dear Julie, I am sorry that this is happening at the moment and although I can only imagine how you and chickpea must be feeling, I can empathise. I think you can take comfort that Chickpea has adjusted so well and in time, I'm sure you will too. Thinking of you both.
    Marianne x

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  6. Dear Julie,
    Of course you are thinking of your darling daughter but listen to me...I am a bit of a physic (NOT psycho, now!) and I can just feel it in my bones that your daughter will be fine, okay? Wish I could pop in to see you and make you a nice cup of tea, I can you know, been married to a Brit for 31 years has taught me that!
    Good thing that she is on the medication that she needs. Chickpea, what a sweet nickname for your sweet daughter!
    Take care!
    Love, Kay

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  7. Hello Julie

    I am so sorry to hear your news, just take each day as it comes and I am sure things will work
    out.

    Thanking of You and Chickpea.

    luv
    irene
    xxxx

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    Replies
    1. Sorry Julie I meant THINKING OF YOU AND CHICKPEA.

      luv
      irene
      xxxx

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  8. I think you should try to see this is a good thing. Chickpea has the right attitude - nothing has changed but having a name for her illness now - and knowing what it is means she can get all the care/medication she needs for it and carry on with life. Easy for me to say, not having children, but I think it is good to know what you are dealing with and be taking the appropriate medication. It's great that Chickpea has dealt with it so well - with her attitude, I'm suer she'll be fine!

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  9. Julie, just wanted to say I know a little how this feels having gone through some life-altering concerns with two of my children. Coping does get easier, and as others have said, it is a blessing that there are medications to manage. All the same, it's hard as moms to watch our kids have to adjust to a new normal. I will keep you and Chickpea in my prayers:)

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  10. it is so hard when our children are ill, but it sounds like she is getting the best of care. x

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  11. Oh goodness, what a lot to take in. I feel for you. But on the positive side, at least she has a diagnosis and some medication which is better than the alternative. But yes, I know how helpless we parents feel when our children are even a little unwell. Take care. xx

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