 |
| Taken at a happier time |
It's a bit hard for me to think of no more weeks hiking with the Senior Trailblazers, but that time has finally come. I've been told that unless I can bring someone to hike with me who can help me with my failing sight, that it's not fair to the others for me to ask for help all the time. And I know it's right, but since it's been a part of my life for so long (since 2008), I have been reluctant to stop, even when I have leaned on others inappropriately.
Today I was politely asked to not show up for the hikes any more. I know I cannot continue to impose on others, but I've also thought that maybe I would be better today or tomorrow. Not so. It's a progressive disease that has attacked my eyesight, and I know better: it' just hard to give up something so important to me.
But what I am actually giving up is the ability to hike with others. I know all the hikes and have enjoyed the companionship, but I can still get on the bus and ride it to my favorite trailheads and take off at my own pace. There are only a few of the hikes around town that aren't accessible by bus. With the right mindset, I can see this as a new adventure. I'm no stranger to change, and learning to cope with moving on will give me a brand new frame of reference.
But there's no pretending that I am not sad, though, and wishing this pesky macular degeneration has not affected me so profoundly. This will also give me a chance to find new ways to stay fit and active. It won't be that long before I will no longer be able to use my laptop in the ways I am using it now, and it's time to get cracking on finding new avenues for me to follow. I have so many virtual friends who have learned to adjust, even some who have gone from active lives to wheelchairs, and they have managed the transition, as will I. At least my activities are simply changing, not fading away all at once.
Just sitting here and writing this post has made me feel more and more positive. Gratitude and peace haven't left me, not by a long shot. And I am feeling my oats, even if they belong to an octogenarian! For the time being, I will be continuing to write my posts on Tuesdays and Sundays, so you can find me here on those days.
Onward and upward!
:-)
I am sorry to hear how it all fell out for you with the hiking group.If it is unsafe to walk without assistance in the group, is it safe to take a bus to trail and hike alone? Is there a hiking buddy to come with at all? I know your resilience has shown up here many times and this too is something you’ll find a solution for.! Always happy to see your blog posts..thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteOh my so sorry to hear of no more Trailblazer hikes. Perhaps someone needs to form a new group. Too bad someone doesn't step up to help you and others who need a little help.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry this experience of many years is over. You have options though as you’ve said. Adapting is a big part of life. So it continues. A new adventure awaits.
ReplyDeleteThat was a message that was hard to hear. You will adjust, but it is still a painful loss. Carry on with new adventures that you can manage.
ReplyDeleteWow! That's a bummer. Might there be a younger hiker who can be your hike-buddy, like a hired guide? Might want to research those help-me fobs and systems in case you have trouble out on your own. Of course, you could always squeeze in a skydiving jump with a group that does tandem jumps. Best of luck in finding additional adventures! Linda in Kansas
ReplyDeleteWhen you're down, it doesn't take you long to get back up. You quickly find another activity that fills the gap.
ReplyDeleteDear DJan, long time reader, seldom comment. Years ago, my good friend's husband died. She was having a hard time coping with his death. I told her about you and your hiking group. I suggested a hiking group might be very good for her. However, I did say I did not want her to move up north, we live in the Seattle area. Well, my friend found a hiking group online. And now years later, she has been hiking the Pacific Crest Trail the last 2 summers. So DJan, a BIG THANK YOU! Hiking means as much to her as it means to you. So I understand. Carry on my virtual friend. We still have much to learn from you! 💝
ReplyDeleteDJan, so sorry to hear this. I think possibly the best bet would be to continue hiking, but maybe less strenuous trails? I would think there might be more people out there like you that want to hike, but maybe less difficult trails. And as for your blog, I learned recently (after my eye bump biopsy) that I can "talk" into my Apple iPhone and it delivers the message as a text. Don't know if my laptop will do that since it isn't an Apple, but think some laptops or iPads might. Then you could continue your blog by "talking" your posts. Something to think about.
ReplyDeleteYou are an inspiration to many of your readers and I have no doubt you will find an alternative way of hiking. I'm sure there will.be someone there who would be more than happy to be your guide.
ReplyDeleteIf you need help walking with a group, how can it be safe to hike on your own? Can you put up a notice at the senior center that you are looking for a gentle route hiking partner or two? Maybe you could start a slow careful walkers group? There's got to be many people who would like to walk but need a little assistance and/or a safer, more level paced walking. I know you will adapt, but that was hard to hear. :(
ReplyDeleteI sometimes walk with my son and I feel more comfortable to have someone with me. I wonder if the senior center might be interested in a program that matches younger people with older ones. Maybe a high school wanting its students to have an older-generation experience?
ReplyDeleteThat’s tough. The hiking is so much a part of you and what you like to do. Are there times when you could possibly bring someone?
ReplyDeleteThat's depressing. I am so sorry to read this, DJan, knowing how much you enjoyed hiking with friends. It's too bad you can't find a companion to hike with, someone who can help you. Fingers crossed that you'll find that someone.
ReplyDelete