Navigating Life with MECFS: How Chronic Illness Altered Our Family Walks
Navigating Life with MECFS: How Chronic Illness Altered Our Family Walks
How My Chronic Illness Transformed Our Family Dog Walks
Living with a chronic illness, such as ME/CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and chronic pain, has impacted every aspect of my life, even something as seemingly simple as our weekend family walks with our beloved dogs. Our once carefree long strolls, time with our children, and upbeat walks with our furry babies have now turned into slow, laborious, and much shorter walks with the support of my crutches (and lots of stops). My chronic illness has brought about a significant change in our physical routines and how we spend our valuable family time together.
Gone are the days of embarking on long, arduous hikes through the picturesque countryside, serene beaches, or the majestic woods. With my crutches becoming an extension of my determination our walks have now evolved into shorter, more leisurely strolls that accommodate to my long-term health conditions. Initially, I felt a sense of loss and disappointment as I missed our more vigorous and exciting expeditions. However, with time, I have come to appreciate these gentle walks for the unique and invaluable experiences they provide. They offer us a chance to relish in each other's company and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of our surroundings.
Our dog walks are no longer about covering long distances or conquering difficult terrain. These days, they are more about being present, making a connection, and practising mindfulness. We move at a pace that my body allows, with the help of my crutches, which lets me enjoy the beauty of the outdoors without pushing myself beyond my limits.
Despite the adjustments we've had to make, our dogs have adapted wonderfully to our new walking routine. They seem to understand and appreciate the more leisurely pace, soaking up the scents and sounds of our surroundings with a newfound sense of curiosity and calm. They get to smell more smells, or we choose locations where we can let them off the lead, where they can run and fetch.
These walks have become a precious ritual for our family, a time to unplug from the demands of daily life and immerse ourselves in the simple joy of being together in nature. While my chronic illness has undeniably changed the way we experience these moments, it has also deepened our connection and taught us the value of embracing each walk, no matter how short or slow, as a cherished opportunity to bond and find peace amidst life's challenges.
As we continue to navigate the fluctuations of my health conditions, I am grateful for the way our family dog walks have evolved. They serve as a gentle reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always room to find beauty, connection, and joy.
So, to all those who may be facing similar shifts in their lives due to chronic illness, know that it is okay to adapt and find new ways of appreciating the world around you. Sometimes, in the midst of change and limitations, we discover a profound sense of gratitude and love that transcends the physical act of walking itself.
About me
I am a married mother of four children, in my mid 40's. I run a small business and enjoy writing, which is why I blog. My blog focuses on my experiences of living with chronic illnesses and disabilities such as ME/CFS, spinal stenosis, chronic pain, and fibromyalgia.
