I could make a list of the things that are currently out of my reach, like most of the coffee cups, the shelf with lentils on, even the front and back doors! I could give you a longer one of the things I can no longer do, like walking, jumping, reaching… But I’m done with those lists. I need to start the harder work of finding ways round the usual. Surely having two degrees should help🙄.

I do have a work bench in the kitchen that goes down to my level with a sink and a hob on it. I made my first pot of soup this morning because of that. They never tell you that reaching up to get the vegetables and even peeling carrots still have their own challenges! Nothing is straightforward, everything is exhausting.

So next time to see someone who looks like they are tired out, remember about my soup! Life is full of hidden challenges that we face every day

One joyous thing that happened recently was my dad getting a mobility scooter that he can go on to zoom over to my house. For anything that can help bring things or people closer, I am very thankful. Of course there is a bit of pride swallowing involved but ultimately that will happen to us all over time. I need to throw that ‘oh but I used to be able to’ over my shoulder and develop a new way of living.

And that is what it is: living. Not struggling to do or reach things like we used to, but embracing a new alternative way.

Is there anything you can do differently now so you can bring something within your reach? Or maybe you can do that for somebody else?