My Grandma, who is a tough pioneer lady of the most independent kind, told me about her plan to recover from major surgery alone. She prepared her home before the scheduled procedure. She put food and water within reach of her bed, positioned medications at hand, made sure that there were plenty of covers to keep her warm, and arranged a chamber pot. Thinking of the limitations that the surgery would inflict, she also prepared her vehicle. To make it possible for her to climb in unassisted, she placed a milk crate in her pick-up that she could use as a step. Knowing the she would be unable to bend over to retrieve the crate, she even thought to tie a rope to the crate so that she could pull it up into the truck. She would need it to get out again at home, you know. I told you she is tough! At the last minute, her daughters got wind of the surgery and arrived in time to provide her the loving care that she deserves. But she had a good plan.
When you know something is coming with plenty of warning, you can prepare appropriately, and you should. Being fiercely independent is a pretty good trait! Some illnesses or recoveries don’t give you as much warning, though. A head cold can show up at a moment’s notice. For such minor illnesses, it is possible to be organized and ready. Having your preferred basic medications always on hand is helpful. Maintain a back-stock of supplies like tissues and disinfectant wipes or sprays. One is None, People! (That also applies to toilet paper, by the way. Not that we want to contribute to a run on the paper aisle.)
When seasons of elevated risk approach, take time to inventory what you have in stock. You might find a whole box in the medicine cabinet that has only one dose left in it. Like someone I know. Who then had to make a special trip to the pharmacy. On a Sunday. Hmmm. Need to take my own advice.
When the illness has past, you are not done. Now is the time to restock what was depleted so that you are ready for the next event. Be like my Grandma: Be organized! Be ready!
