Living with Post-Polio Syndrome (PPS) brings a profound reduction of physical capacities, but it also offers an unexpected lens to examine what truly enriches our lives.
Accepting Reduction Without Resentment
Since Dave’s PPS started during the pandemic, we were already in the middle of the great reduction—the stripping away of what we once deemed necessary, only to discover the true essentials that hold our lives together: relationships, community, and faith.
This concept of reduction isn’t new. Reflecting on Luke 1:66, where the community wonders about John the Baptist’s future, we see early expectations set for him. Yet, John's own words in John 3:30, “He must increase, but I must decrease,” reveal his understanding of his role—to exalt Christ, not himself. Jesus’s affirmation, "Blessed is he who is not offended by me," acknowledges the challenges in accepting this role of diminishment without resentment.
Some Changes through Reduction
For Dave, the onset of PPS felt sudden, though in hindsight, the signs had been accumulating unnoticed. This reduction has reshaped every aspect of daily life:
- Mobility: Dave now relies on assistive devices (a cane for a short distance, forearm crutches for a longer distance, and a wheelchair for a long distance) and the occasional helping hand to navigate spaces and stairs that have no railing. All these he once roamed freely. Each step requires careful planning and an acceptance of dependence that challenges his independence.
- Energy Levels: Activities must be prioritized, as energy reserves are no longer boundless. Decisions about simple tasks, like choosing a restaurant or shopping, hinge on accessibility— are they close to parking? Are there elevators? And proximity to necessary facilities (ex: bathrooms, exit doors) become crucial
considerations.
Valuable Lessons from Reduction
- Contentment: Dave has accepted that certain places and experiences, like exploring Josh and Michelle’s (our children)'s university campuses are no longer feasible unless we’re driving. Attending events that require standing or extensive walking is not preferred unless he definitely needs to be there. Dave has been very content to experience these vicariously through Ani, much like Eleanor Roosevelt became the eyes and ears for FDR.
- Gratitude: Despite these limitations, there are unexpected perks to be grateful for! Some examples: priority airport services, disabled parking benefits, and still being able to drive, which bring a measure of relief and accessibility to our lives.
- Guarding of the Heart: Acts 9:31 has become a cornerstone for us, reminding us to maintain a heart guarded by "the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit." In moments of frustration or when prayers seem unanswered, Dave does not blame God but seeks solace in the Spirit’s comfort, keeping bitterness at bay. In fact, when we steward it well, we can use it as a platform to tell people about God’s goodness. - Community Support: We won’t be able to go through the journey of reduction without the help of our community, our tribe, our beloved brothers and sisters, and many others. We’ll write about them next time.
Practical Tips for Interacting with Dave:
- If you see him struggle or fall, don’t panic! He usually can get up by himself after he “centers” himself. Stay near, but don’t rush to help unless he requests it. Of course, if it’s clear he needs assistance but isn’t able to ask, then please help.
- It’s okay to walk ahead rather than wait behind him. He prefers it as it alleviates the pressure to hurry, allowing him to move at his own pace without feeling like an obstruction.
In closing, our journey of reduction is a continuous lesson in humility and trust. We pray through this blog for all of us who are asking for the grace, that God will help us embrace our limitations not as confinements but as opportunities to glorify Him. In our decrease, may His presence in our lives flourish, teaching us to live fully with contentment and gratitude, so He can increase through us.
Amen.
I take these posts to heart and I believe the words are becoming strength to everyone who reads them. I’m so blessed to be your friends.