And boy, do I relate to the PTSD - every time I get a little lightheaded (because of my BP meds), I wonder - is this the onset of another stroke? Every time my equilibrium goes a little off - which isn't atypical for a 70-yr old - I wonder, Is it happening again? I'm always looking over my shoulder for the next shadow. But Mr Dog & I still climb Brigham Hill most mornings (not today - sleet, freezing rain, etc), and it feels GOOD to be there when we get there. Something is going to take me out, and it won't be too awfully long before it does - but as someone very wisely just told me,
And I'm sorry your kids have chosen this moment to become distant. My own daughter is also thousands of miles away, and I fear since I'm out of sight, I'm also out of mind. Beyond the obligatory "OMG, are you all right??", I haven't heard much from her. I wonder if denial of our mortality might be making them reluctant to reach out...?
Not much I can tell you that you already haven't figure out. Just keep on keeping on, and work your way back SLOWLY. We're not in our 30s anymore!
All the best, Doreen. Seriously.