Yesterday was painful. Emotionally, being the 20-month anniversary since Ryan was attacked. Physically, as I pushed through a Harvey Wallbanger of a headache until the wee hours of last night. Despite these working against me, Ryan’s day was uninterrupted.
I did everything I normally do with him. I did it at the same intensity. So, to Ryan, it was another run-of-the-mill day. I have to tell you, though, I was hurting… badly. Every time I exerted effort my head exploded with pain. As you know, tending Ryan requires nearly ongoing exertion.
Now, you might think I’m looking for pity here. As it turns out, you’re right. I’m all in favor of having a pity-party for me. Nah, just kidding… I’m not interested in pity.
My point is this, anyone in a full-time caregiver situation simply can not put themselves first. Ever. In my case, the pain didn’t begin to diminish until after Ryan was tucked comfortably in bed. This gave me an opportunity to shield my eyes from the light, arch my neck to apply pressure against the wall, and massage my head. The entire time I hoping that Ryan has nothing crop up that requires my attention. Ryan came through for me there and I dozed off for a couple of hours sleep.
Migraines are a B*****, but Ken you need to take care of yourself too! As parents, we feel what our children feel, right?! So what if our kids feel our pain as well? Something to think about. Ryan gave you the rest you needed because he loves you! Take care, (i mean it!) Still here in Atlanta, thinking about y’all!
Hey, Sorry I haven’t been here in print but please know that I am still with you and not going anywhere.
Ken ,Glad the headache went away and Ryan had a good night .Hope today is better for you Still here always. Gail
I’m glad Ryan’s day went off without a hitch. I applaude you for continuing with your intense routine with a Harvey Wallbanger of a headache. I’ve been there, too.
As I suggested to Sue a while ago, try to eliminate the diet sodas. I found during an extremely stressful time in my life, that the aspartame (or Nutri-Sweet) in diet sodas threw me into a tail-spin of migraines. It’s easy to do. You can drink more water or regular soda, or even iced tea. A little of a caffeinated drink always helped to minimize a migraine too. Apparently, the caffeine dialates the blood vessels in your head so the blood flows quicker (eliminating that pulsing sensation in your head).
Hang in their buddy! SHSP, NGA!!
Thanks, Dianne. I’m not a soda drinker. I drank plenty of coffee and iced tea and Excedrin.
Actually, migraines are caused by a dilation of the blood vessels in the brain and caffeine relieves the pain by constricting them. Sometimes a cold compress on your forehead can help too. Hopefully there won’t be another opportunity to test that treatment anytime soon.
My migraine hit on Wednesday. I can not imagine trying to care for anyone (as you do Ryan) with a migraine. I can’t function for myself, much less do all that you do. My respect and awe for you just quadrupled (and I didn’t think that was possible). My prayers are with you.
hoping for a better day <3 still here.