Cheryl, I have been reading your posts for several months, and you have inspired me with your attitude and your abilities. This last year has been a roller coaster for me and your knowledge and support have been wonderful.

I have also come to realize that we will all have periods of down time and readjustment. I also do not want to accept that, but it is the reality. So hang in there and take care of yourself. You do so much and it sounds like you have not given yourself the time or permission to take it easy. You should not feel guilty about your need to take some down time. I hope you have a wonderful time in Wales. It is a beautiful country -- lots of rolling hills/mountains and sheep

What have I lost:

1) a sense of independence. I still live alone and I can still drive, but I need to rely on friends to give me rides to various medical appointments when I have been told not to drive due to sedation, etc. I have 2 of these appt's this week (colonscopy and MRI). I hate asking for help.

2) the freedom to just get in my car and go away for a weekend to Chicago or somewhere else. I can walk but need a cane. I can only make it about one block in the city before I need to rest.

3) financial security -- I know that I am better off in this areas than some, but I planned on teaching until I was 62. That is 11 more years. I do not know if I will make it. I have four more year to go before I can retire, but if I have to retire at the age of 55 my income will be drastically reduced.