Frequently, I have difficult times during the day. When I share this information with others, inevitably they ask, What happened or What's wrong? Aside from the obvious answer that I have severe limitations, I do have specific methods of performing daily routines which don't work 100% of the time. So, my response to the question in very typical serious Steve tone is, "The planets and stars were out of alignment". That is the moment that my wife gives me 'the look' and friends don't get it. 
        Here is the perfect example: I transfer from my wheelchair to the toilet. I complete my task, but, cannot transfer from the toilet back to the wheelchair. I struggle for 45 minutes trying to get back to my soft wheelchair cushion. I now have a ring around my butt from the toilet seat. I am tired and figure that I need assistance. I make 2 phone calls, my wife is now worried and my friend is scraping ice off his truck to get here. I try one last time and stand right up and transfer back to the wheelchair without incident. What happened? I can only guess that the planets were in alignment!

        We've been discussing one of my least favorite topics, "What Happens When...". What happens when I lose function, what kind of care will I need, how do we pay for it.
        While it is so much better to have a plan or plans in place, I admit hating to look into my functional future. Actually, lack of function. You might try to comfort me by saying, 'You never know', [thank you for that], but, I understand my prognosis. Also, you must consider a worst case scenario when making these plans. Yuck!

    Okay, now that we have the house training completed, it's not so bad having a puppy. The best part is, now I don't have to watch him every minute of the day. You just have to love having a dog door. Ideally, we will be willing to get involved in some training that will enable me to have an assistance dog here at the house. I'm not so concerned about the puppy as much as I am myself. I'm not sure that I have the skills or the abilities to do it correctly.    

Fortunately, Gus is a real chow hound. I think he'll do just about anything for a treat. That will definitely work in my favor. Stay tuned…

        Two weeks ago, the wife brought home a 10 week old Golden Retriever puppy. 'Gus' was received by me with mixed emotions. Clearly, how can you not love looking at and touching the little fur ball? However, it's hard enough taking care of myself without adding the care of a puppy.
        In the end, if it means that much to my wife, I will accept Gus with love...

       Of course, you all know I was setting you up for this post. I just ordered a new software package called Dragon naturally speaking premium 12. It is voice recognition software. So, today, I am giving it a test run. So far, it does a great job taking dictation. I'm also trying to get some expertise using it to open software programs and operate email as well as using it for Internet activities. The reason behind this purchase, is because I have to try and take it easy on my shoulders. I am wearing them out.
        Before I purchase any technology gadgets or software, I always do extensive research using the Internet not only for reviews and information, but pricing as well. I was able to get the premium 12 software package for $89. The headset was an additional $60. If I had not done my price shopping, I could've paid over $350 for the exact same thing. It just goes to show you, it pays to do your homework. And while I'm still at the bottom of the learning curve, this voice recognition/dictation thing is kind of fun.                                     

        Whether it's as simple as a pencil pushed through a piece of foam tubing or as high tech as speech recognition software, use the equipment that is available. It will make each of us more productive. It also helps to provide another opportunity to master a skill and let some challenges fall to the wayside.

        There is the other perspective on the freedom to choose issue regarding the Tim Bowers story. While they don't really argue against choice, they feel it was a reactive, snap decision. They also accurately point out the negative bias toward spinal cord injuries and those who live with them. It's an awareness raising opportunity. Regardless of your opinion or politics, talk to your family about how you would want them to respond after a catastrophic accident or illness; Have the Talk!  For the other  perspective article, Click Here...

        You may have heard or read about the gentleman who fell out of a tree and crushed the vertebrae in his neck at the C3, C4 and C5 levels. He and his family had "the talk" previous to the accident [what to do in case of a severe accident / illness]. The doctors discussed the diagnosis and prognosis with he and his family. He, Tim Bowers, chose to cease all extraordinary measures [a ventilator] that were keeping him alive. Five hours later, he died. Too many people are making such a big deal about his decision. God gave us the ability to make choices. Tim Bowers made his choice. He had the freedom to choose. Read more here...

        I am blessed to be a cancer survivor. After 14 years, I feel confident to say I am cured. Well, cured from that cancer at that time. I'm not silly enough to think that another cancer won't creep into my life. There is a great article about coping with cancer. Naturally, these coping skills can work for any type of illness / injury related issue. Click Here for the article...