There’s a stigma surrounding those who use wheelchairs. To most, they evoke pity: “Oh, how awful to be confined to a wheelchair.” Perhaps it’d be awful for the person making the statement, but is it awful for the person using the chair? When an older adult is in a wheelchair,…
The Marvel Cinematic Universe is part of today’s culture. Its movies take theatergoers to places never imagined. Iron Man, Thor, and Doctor Strange are a few of the characters that it brings to life, and each seems incredibly realistic. When I watch these movies, I can’t help but…
I arrived late for the concert. An usher whisked me to my seat, as my husband and our son Caeleb had already arrived. As I walked down the aisle, feeling very conspicuous in my clerical collar (I didn’t have time to change), I noticed the backs of hundreds…
When I was a young woman, I was very negative. I would look ahead to a situation and immediately imagine the possible pitfalls. I never considered everything would work according to plan. When plans went better than expected, it was a bonus. As a former glass-half-empty kind of person,…
I have a variety of satellite radio stations saved as favorites in my car, with Broadway, The Blend, Classic Rock, The Groove, Symphony Hall, and ’80s as the ones I enjoy the most. The ’80s music transports me to my high school days, which were filled with beautiful memories.
When my youngest son, Caeleb, was 8 years old, our family went on a trip that required him to use a wheelchair at the airport. His severe hemophilia A with an inhibitor had caused persistent joint bleeds, which resulted in significant pain and limited mobility, as well as…
I have battled weight and self-image issues since I was a teenager. Being present with my hospice patients day in and day out becomes draining. I take on any pain and disappointment my husband and sons experience. And when I witness my boys struggle because of hemophilia, the…
The adventure of life is filled with ups and downs. Focusing on a word instead of on New Year’s resolutions can be a powerful practice when navigating a bleeding disorder. A focus word serves as a daily reminder and source of motivation, providing a lens through which to…
The holiday season means different things for different people. Wrapping presents, taking a family vacation, or simply baking cookies are some of the activities that bring people happiness during this time. Regardless of a person’s faith, tradition, or experience, the holidays are meant to bring joy, love, hope, and…
Taking time off is critical for our mental health. Even if a vacation is a staycation, having time to relax and have fun is essential for our overall well-being. Rest and rejuvenation also help make us more productive. But vacations are a luxury. Traveling to Europe, cruising to Mexico, and…
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