Juggling COPD With the Responsibilities of a Family
Suffering from a chronic illness doesn't stop me from being a parent and a partner to my family. Unfortunately, this unpredictable disease can sometimes hinder that.
Morning routine
I try and wake up early to help get my 14-year-old ready for school. After catching my breath and clearing my lungs, I'm ready to face the day. I find making sandwiches quite difficult, so Nathan helps me. If I'm feeling really strong, I'll make the tea.
Standing for long periods of time can be a challenge. I now sit at the dining room table and make them. Becky goes off to school and then it's breakfast time for me. Nathan usually eats later.
Things are going to change
Nathan is starting a new job soon so he'll be leaving really early in the morning. This means I'll have to take on more responsibilities. I'm a little nervous, but I'm up for the challenge. I'll have to make the sandwiches and sort Becky out, which is my job anyway.
Teaching myself to relax
I need to learn how to relax when I'm faced with extra pressure. I tend to be a worrier and I know I need to accept the changes. At the moment, we're still with the in-laws, who are lovely. I try and do as much as I can around the house to help the daily functioning. It's not easy living in someone else's home. I'm also having other tests done, but I won't go into that right now.
Afternoons with Becky
When Becky comes home from school we talk about her day and if she's ok. With this virus going around, we're also extremely aware of good hygiene, so she has a quick shower to wash the day away. This makes her safe to be around. She shares her life with me and I feel like a proper mum. My "normal" is so precious to me and she helps me achieve that.
Evenings and leaving the day behind
Dinner time is a pleasure in our house. We catch up with the day's events. My breathing can be quite a struggle at this time of day, but I participate and everyone understands my difficulty. After I've had my meds, I'm in a much better space and the rest of the evening is spent with the family.
Bedtime routine
Fortunately, I'm not on oxygen so getting into bed isn't too much of a problem. I'm blessed to be able to sleep quite well and always keep a bottle of water by the bed.
Looking forward to my future
We can't wait to have a home of our own where we can create our own routines. Living with other people, no matter how wonderful, can be stressful. I know that when we do find our forever place, my life will change and I will be able to deal with my COPD better. Until then I will continue to be the best mum and partner I can be. Patience is a blessing.
Editor's Note: We are heartbroken to share that Liana passed away in November of 2021. She is deeply missed but her encouragement and positivity live on through her articles. Thank you for everything, Liana.
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