Hi redcat. I did try hydrotherapy which I loved but the Physio said that my balance was so bad that I wasn't allowed in the water without an assistant. They wanted me to go two to three times a week at $75 a session. It simply isn't doable.

I applied to go through the public hospital system but they assessed me and refused. They said they don't take patients with chronic conditions only people requiring short term post trauma therapy.

The ridiculous thing is that I have a Disability pension and Private Health Insurance but neither of these cover hydrotherapy. I am on a Chronic Health Management Plan which means I get 5 free physiotherapy sessions (in a lifetime) which I have already used. If I ask to be placed in a residential care rehab centre, I can get all the help I want at no extra charge but I love my little home, with my own bed and my two cats and a dog.

It's a case of whether I'm willing to give up what makes life worth living (my pets) to improve my quality of life (possibly). The short answer is NO.

I have no spouse or children but I do have elderly parents and a brother (mostly MIA). I did have a circle of friends but these have diminished over time because I no longer go out to socialise. I have one very good friend left but she has her own difficulties with family, so I don't vent to her at all. I have another not so reliable friend but she travels all over the world all the time and I'm never quite sure where she is. I think she's on a European River Cruise at the moment.....but I could be wrong!

I'm very lucky compared to a lot of people. I have my own home, some savings, a steady income, a good friend and I have always been okay with my own company and I feel reasonably well. I just have to come to terms with a body that doesn't want to work.

It's good you have the pool to look forward to and a husband to share with. Little things can mean a lot.