I saw the wrinkles coming and I ignored them. I saw the pounds getting put on, but I was still me.
But when the doctor told me last week at my eye surgery pre-op appointment that I had high blood pressure, well, that was like, the last straw on hiding my head in the sand.
I write to you on this blog, because you are my friends. I have heard from many of you that you really enjoy my writings and that they entertain and even help you on your journey. I'm happy to get that kind of feedback.
(you know, the GOOD kind of feedback, not the sound system kind of feedback).
I am working on a book. Maybe someday I will get it done. My friend told me yesterday that if I want to sell a book, I have to stop giving away my writing for free (like this). And she's right. But until that time that I'm ready to publish, I'll just keep practicing here, ok?
They say that High Blood Pressure is "The Silent Killer". Sounds like it should be in a graphic novel, doesn't it? Something to be combated in Gotham City by Batman or something?
Well, I'm trying to quell the damage of it, right here in my home, by stepping up to the plate and confronting it. I am not going to ignore my symptoms and I will test the sturdiness of my stalwart soul with this next assault on my mortality.
I tell you I want to age gracefully! I want to live to do so many things.
I've been stopped or at least, stalled, here and there throughout my life, and I'm not going to let that happen anymore.
It's 1 for all, and all for 1! Me, Myself and I!
Like Dr. Robert Schuller says, "If it's going to be, it's up to ME."
I like that.
So here's the scoop.
It's been over a WEEK since I got the news that my blood pressure was starting to sky rocket to 140/90.
I bought a pretty good blood pressure monitor, "Omron" and it cost about $80 or so.
I am drinking more water.
I switched to tea, but if I want 1 cup of coffee a day, I will have it.
I am drinking 1, count em, 1, glass of wine in the evening. (they say that a glass of red wine is GOOD for you :)
Have eaten oatmeal for breakfast almost every morning.
Cut out meat.(and I LOVE red meat, was brought up on it on the farm)
Cut out dairy.(and I LOVE cheese, but am really lactose intolerant, but still love it anyway)
and
I'm trying to really walk the dog every day if possible. A walk of about 35 minutes.
Eating LOTS and LOTS of veggies.
Bought a recommended fiber supplement as suggested by doctor (oh god)
and guess what?
here are my readings which I started AFTER my surgery:
Original doctor reading: 140/90
3/25 123/80
3/26 118/86
3/27 128/84
3/28 116/82
3/29 111/90
and this mornings: 3/30 117/82
Which PROVES to me, that there is light at the end of the tunnel!
I am not gonna be afraid, and I'm not gonna hide my head in the sand about it.
If it is determined that I have to take meds for it, I will happily succumb to it,
but first, I am making some lifestyle changes.
I really analyzing what I want in my life.
I'm going to make some major changes.
And hey, I might just get a little thinner, prettier and healthier all round in this process!
I really don't know what's gonna happen, but who does, anyway?
So, loveys, just staying true to you and doing my best and holding down the fort.
Others can do what they want to do, but I'm going to do what's best for ME.
love and hugs
Merlyn
4 comments:
Good for you Meryln! Eric tests his blood pressure and sugar levels every morning. Pulse and Oxygen Saturation too. The need to do that, and to respond with better food choices and activities was always there for all of us from the time we were kids, but we only become wise enough to do so when we grow up into our whole Self. Some times our loving bodies see we have been ostriches and then provide us with motivation. We call it aging, or health crises or something else negative. Our bodies call it love.
I worked for years on the concept "It's only food" so that I wouldn't mind being vegetarian. I thought it was the healthiest choice. Somehow for me I could not maintain the iron levels in my body without meat. Phooey. Nevertheless, "It's only food" has been a helpful mindset as I drop sweets, fats, heavy salt, huge portions from out meal plans. I think it is an inkling more of what they mean about "detachment". Blessings!
Much love and faith for you dear friend. Yes you inspire all of us to do better, strive to achieve more, to learn and see beauty everyday, and to take time for us. And I love you for it. Keep writing, we need you.
Good for you!!! I have to be monitored for high blood pressure too. My mother developed early onset hypertension in her early 30's. Her blood pressure was high for her entire pregnancy with my youngest brother and didn't go back down after he was born. She's been on high blood pressure meds since then, but it stays low and she's very healthy :) They watch mine because of a possible family tendency, but for the most part, it's good :) I'm so proud of you taking these steps for yourself, you have been very, very inspirational for me :) *hugs*
Oh thank you so much for your wise and thoughtful words. I wish you health and happiness on this journey.
We shall all travel together on the path.
I'll hold your hand, if you'll hold mine :)
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