A friend told me that if all I do is complain, people are going to avoid me. She was a wise friend.
I have a bone disease called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, OI, and it is a very quirky disorder. Those of us effected by OI have very unreliable bodies.
The following description has been lifted from the OI Foundation’s website.
Facts about Osteogenesis Imperfecta |
Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic disorder characterized by fragile bones that break easily. It is also known as “brittle bone disease.” A person is born with this disorder and is affected throughout his or her life time.
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On Saturday, the van was warming, we all had our shoes on, the dog was dressed and I flung my purse over my left shoulder. The simple action turned my humerus in a strange way and my shoulder popped out of place.
With OI, these things happen randomly and unless a bone is poking out, we tend to complete our plans.
Having a shoulder out is very inconvenient, a set back. I takes a week or maybe two before it is healed. I complain about these things. They are so random and so stupidly caused that I can’t help but allow myself time to feel both anger and disappointment over the injury. I’ll announce the injury and when I feel sufficiently validated, I adjust my activity level and go on with life.
Yesterday, predawn, I shifted in bed, a common area for injury usually related to pushing a blanket away. I swore, settled back in to finish my slumber, knowing I had just popped my right shoulder.
I announced this injury as well, making sure people around me knew how unfair I think it is to have both shoulders out at the same time.
I use hand controls and I cannot drive, I cannot climb and I cannot hitch my pants up without a lot of maneuvering and thought. So, I am bummed.
While this post looks like a complaint and no one wants to hang around a complainer, I consider it a momentary self indulging plea for validation.
When I say both shoulders are out, now, I want a knowing nod, something that conveys, belief. This is an unbelievable disease.
After some self indulgence, I can go on to the brighter side.
At least it isn’t an all out fracture. At least I have an activity level that can be adjusted. Thank goodness I have clothes to fight with. And I am thankful that my family gets it.
So, now, I am going to get off my pity pot, pull up my pants the best I can and get on with life.
Thank you all for visiting and indulging me. Comments are welcome. Come back in a few days.