To Your Health...

After my cardiology appointment yesterday I had the realization that my cardiologist, as brilliant as he is, does not understand how to support the mind as well as the body. I have made great strides in following his advice, losing weight, taking my glucose under control by diet, walking etc, and I feel better than ever. However, now that I have accomplished these tasks, as important as they are to my health, he seems to have dismissed them. He has instead started to focus on yet another problem, whether or not I will do well on the treadmill test and whether or not I will need a pacemaker. No, I am not one that needs to be coddled to, nor do I need alot of pats on the back to keep my momentum going in the direction of health. I do, however, need a Dr. that recognizes my quest for health and survival and the need for positive reinforcement. Being in the healthcare field for many years, I know that candy coating important issues is not a realistic means to an end. I also know that treating a patient's mind and keeping them positive and upbeat is as important as the issue at hand. For that reason I will be having my treadmill next week as planned. I will also be seeking a new partner in my health care future. One who will hopefully give me the positive mental support I need, as well as the physical.

I am not one who broadcasts my ailments and problems. I am posting this in hopes of bringing attention to the fact that in order to treat one's body, the mind must be treated as well. If you are ill and do not receive the support you need in all areas of your care, please seek it. If you are a caregiver or health care provider with whom you have many who have trusted their lives to you, please note that a positive mental outlook is as important in their care as medicine or surgeries. After all, you have been entrusted with the body as a whole, not just one specific body part.

I came across this poem today and thought I'd share it. Yes, we all need Dr's care now and then but we also could do with a bit of the obvious. Blessings to you all and I wish you the best of health.


The best six doctors anywhere
And no one can deny it
Are sunshine, water, rest, and air
Exercise and diet.
These six will gladly you attend
If only you are willing
Your mind they'll ease
Your will they'll mend
And charge you not a shilling.
~Nursery rhyme quoted by Wayne Fields, What the River Knows, 1990