Experiencing a handicap--not on the golf course

About 3 weeks ago I had arthroscopic surgery to repair torn 'rotater cuff' tendons and my bicep in the right arm. While many people who experience this injury are probably athletes, I was treated to this special deficit of ability to lift my hand above my shoulder height. . from a fall on the ice and blow to the fore-arm just below my elbow. That was Feb 8. On March 31, I had the surgery. For the first 2 weeks, I slept sitting up, with the sling that included a firm foam pillow between my waist and my forearm. the shoulder was not to be used in any way. so. . showering, dressing, combing /brushing hair or teeth. .and reaching for just about anything was done cautiously if it was possible to do at all.

One of the best things I must admit is that I have a daughter who is a very conscientious and patient care-giver. I have seen a side of her that I was not so aware of. I could not have managed the first week, especially, without her. For about 3 weeks, she has also been my 'driver'.

However, I didn't get out of all my chores. I still had one good arm, and use of my right hand, as long as I didn't try to lift or hold on to something that required pulling away from my body.. .and so, the laundry continued to get done, and I also kept up with my recycling duties.. .I also got out of changing Eleanor's (3 yr. old granddaughter) diapers.

within a week, I found a comfortable position of holding my laptop on my lap (as designed?) so that I can get plenty of job-searching done on-line.

So. .in some ways, I have been granted an unplanned sabbatical. With the assistance of unemployment benefits, we are get our needs met, but I have not been able to finish that paint job, or wallpaper, or cleaning the windows or light fixtures. .those will have to wait.. .

oh well. .that's okay too.

perhaps this is a prelude to retirement.. .not sure I am ready for it, but it does make one think what life would be like without so much money, plenty of time, and some occasional handicaps accompanied by caring people to remind us we don't have to do it all.
LM