Change My Life Again

Almost 30 years ago, I moved to the town that I currently live in. I was just a child, so I had no say in the move, and was forced to live with my Mom when my folks split up. So, for various reasons. I have wanted to move out of this town for the last 17 years  -- including the fact there isn't much to do around here if you aren't athletic and like drinking alcohol.

One day, everything changed

I always imagined that when I moved out of this town, it would be on my own terms. But instead, I was once again forced to go somewhere else. Last spring, my husband told me he wanted to file for separation, and that he wanted me to move out of our apartment by the end of June. I had to move closer to where my Dad lives so that he can assist me from time to time.

My husband's decision blindsided me. He decided, while in a very depressive state, that my multiple diseases were too much for him. I hope that with time and counseling, he won't be so depressed and will be able to think more clearly. My RLS is, at least, one of the diseases that didn't really have much of an impact on our relationship.

Chronic illness is an obstacle

Before the move, I hoped that I could go to some of my favorite places for one last walk, and possibly even go to a couple of places that I haven't been before.  Most of all, I really wanted to go to the local waterfall -- it's not super big, but it's still very beautiful. Unfortunately, between being busy with paperwork to apply for government assistance and my health being sensitive because of the stress I am under, I haven't been able to go for any walks, not even around my neighbourhood.

The main city I planned to move to is very hilly. I had to consider that it might be a bit rough on my RLS at first. If I'm lucky, being on Pregabalin will help and it won't be so bad. Once I'm settled in, I should be able to get out for more walks.

Looking for the positives

Whenever I travel to the region that I am moving to, I can feel myself thriving. I always sleep better, eat better, and have more energy to be able to go on longer walks and even small hikes. I am hoping that those things will become permanent in this next chapter. The region also has more nature than where I lived before, so I am really excited about that. It gives me more of an incentive to go out for walks.

I have been practicing self-care every chance I get to try to avoid flare-up during this stressful time. I'm also trying to focus on all the good things, like getting to spend so much time with my Dad.

As my life changes in this major way, I am thinking of a line from the song "Fly By Night" by the band Rush, which inspired the title of this article: "Fly by night, away from here, change my life again."