Why Do I Do This to Myself

Why Do I Do This to Myself

It took me two months to get over the flu this year—January and February.

Before that, I had a heart procedure. I had been tired and had little energy, but now I feel like I can again take on jobs around my house like going through papers, shredding papers, working on my income taxes, and paying bills.

A new rule I have made now is to pay them as soon as they come in. Car insurance is a must—don’t let it lapse. For a while I forgot to pay some bills.

Now with new energy again, my cardiologist said, in my last visit with him, “Schedule to see me one year from now.” Then, I will be 92!

Yes, I have scheduled almost every day this week to do something. Am I pushing my luck?

I’m looking forward to doing little jobs around the house. I try to keep off scaffolds and ladders, unless someone is around in case I fall.

Why, why, why do I do this to myself?

I can’t help it if I feel so good at 91!

Don Sivertsen’s new book Don’s Heart: Medical Marvels Happen at All Ages addresses how many people lose hope about recovering from illnesses or injuries in their elder years. Don kept a journal of his feelings at 90 about discovering a heart problem, waiting for the procedure, having it, and the amazingly positive outcome for him. He has written this book to chronicle his experience in hopes that others will feel encouraged—recognize that even older bodies can heal. The book also includes more of his life-affirming experiences and philosophy. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076ZR66RG. His first book, Laughs, Luck, & Life is on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IFN4DD8. Miraculously regaining his ability to speak, think, and write after a debilitating stroke, the author presents a uniquely life-affirming series of funny sometimes poignant anecdotes characterized by their humble yet self-confident messages. His words—gained by accessing the “spare, unused brain cells” that weren’t damaged—are a bright ray of hope served up as warmhearted humor and sprinkled with some modestly offered advice.

SHARING STORIES is a weekly column for and about the 50 plus crowd living in the Puget Sound region. Send your stories and photos to ariele@comcast.net. Tell local or personal stories; discuss concerns around aging and other issues; share solutions, good luck, and reasons to celebrate; poems are fine too. Pieces may be edited or excerpted. We reserve the right to select among pieces. Photos are always a plus and a one-sentence bio is requested (where you live, maybe age or career, retired status, etc.).

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