In our boxing classes it’s called “guard up”, the defensive position that keeps our gloves up ready to take on our opponent and protect ourselves from the punches. We can’t get hit unawares and knocked down. It turns out that this is great advice for our everyday lives too because there is always something coming at us and it isn’t always  because of his Parkinson’s.  

Last week it was repairs to our fireplace that became more extensive than we anticipated, this week it has been dental work for my husband culminating in a crown that popped off last night. I live at a heightened level of caution thanks to my husband’s PD diagnosis, always being mindful of the known challenges he faces. If something new comes along and I am not ready, it can really throw me out of kilter. It’s like I am juggling and have all the balls in the air, then someone tosses me another.

I am learning to stop and take a breath, knowing that I can face whatever challenge comes our way. Staying aware and ready to act will help me be prepared; opening my mind and heart will bring me through. Guard up!