Category: Brian’s Journey

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The Tiramisu Tale: A Sweet Connection Between Two Countries

Hello Wonderful Readers,

 

Today is special. A dear friend of mine is coming over, and to mark the occasion, I’ve decided to whip up a batch of tiramisu. Interestingly, this dessert holds a cherished memory for my wife and me.

 

I made this sweet treat the first time I set foot in Canada to visit and stay with her. That visit was an eye-opener in more ways than one. As we wandered through a local grocery store, I was genuinely surprised at the subtle differences from the American stores I frequented. The most striking distinction was the bilingual packaging, showcasing English and French labels. It gave everything a unique touch, making even mundane shopping trips a cultural experience.

 

But what caught my eye the most was in the bakery aisle — a packet of ladyfingers. Now, ladyfingers weren’t common in the US stores I had been to, so spotting them was a real treat. For those unaware, ladyfingers are an essential component of tiramisu. With newfound excitement, we bought several packages throughout my stay. And you’ve guessed it, each pack transformed into a delicious pan of tiramisu.

 

Over time, this dessert has earned a special place in our hearts. My wife often declares it her favorite and friends and family request it frequently for gatherings and feasts. The creamy layers infused with coffee and the soft bite of the ladyfingers make it a hit every time. I genuinely relish the process of making it and witnessing the joy it brings to those tasting it.

 

Reflecting on this, everyone should have a signature dessert up their sleeve. Something that can be the star of any party or a sweet gesture for a loved one. It doesn’t just satiate taste buds but also helps create lasting memories.

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Breaking Routine for A Grand Adventure

Hello Dear Readers,

 

The atmosphere at my home is buzzing with excitement as tomorrow, Jon, a dear friend of mine, will drop by to spend a few wonderful days with us. And suppose that wasn’t thrilling enough, a week following his visit, my wife and I will embark on a much-anticipated vacation to the magnificent Grand Canyon.

 

As much as my heart leaps at these forthcoming events, they undeniably detract from my usual day-to-day activities. Such breaks, while refreshing, often mean that the regimen we’ve ardently built might face slight interruptions. And in my case, that pertains to my exercise routine and consistent blogging streak.

 

I’ve resolved to trim down my exercise commitments to make room for all the fun, laughter, and memories we’ll create. Instead of my full-blown workout, I’ll likely stick to pushups whenever I can squeeze in a moment amidst our activities. The other elements, like my daily planking sessions, will probably have to take a backseat until our return.

 

For the avid readers and followers of my blog, fret not! Although I might briefly hit the pause button on my regular posts, my creative mind will remain active. I’ve armed myself with a trusty notepad, which I intend to fill with fresh ideas and musings, ensuring a smooth transition back into my blogging rhythm once I’m back.

 

A point of contemplation for me has been the potential loss of my streaks. There’s my planking streak, which I’ve meticulously maintained, and the streak for my language lessons. I hope to continue the latter, as my phone, my loyal companion, will be right by my side. Yet, the unpredictability of vacations can sometimes surprise us.

 

However, here’s the perspective I’ve decided to embrace: While it’s true that I hold a particular pride in these streaks, the experiences, joys, and rejuvenation that this time off promises are unparalleled. So, if my streak counter resets, so be it. I’m ready to dive headfirst into the adventures awaiting us and pick up the pieces with renewed vigor.

 

And I remain unwavering in my determination for those wondering about my fitness goals. Despite the brief hiatus, I’m confident in achieving my annual target: 20 pullups, pullovers, pushups.

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Navigating My New Normal: Embracing Post-Stroke Clumsiness

Hello Dear Readers,

Life has a curious way of teaching us empathy and understanding. It’s often through our own experiences that we gain a deeper insight into others. After experiencing a stroke, one of the challenges I faced was an unexpected decrease in my dexterity, especially in my left hand. This unexpected turn of events forced me to grapple with a new clumsiness, unlike anything I had known before.

 

Before the stroke, I prided myself on my excellent balance and coordination. My hands were always sure and steady, effortlessly performing tasks. However, my left side became noticeably weaker post-stroke, with its response time not as quick as it used to be. This change surprised me, resulting in moments where I’d bump into objects or drop items. One incident that stands out vividly is an ordinary lunch at the hospital cafeteria. While attempting to take a sip from my drink, my left hand faltered, causing the drink to spill. It was a moment that was as puzzling as it was embarrassing.

 

These instances made me confront an unfamiliar reality. There was a pronounced disparity between what I anticipated I could do and what I was actually capable of. The once-taken-for-granted coordination became a daily challenge, requiring me to adjust and relearn. Thankfully, with persistence and rehabilitation, I started to bridge this gap over time. The gap between my anticipated abilities and my post-stroke realities gradually diminished.

 

Before this, I confess that my understanding and patience for those who might have been labeled as “clumsy” or “accident-prone” was limited. It’s not that I lacked compassion, but I lacked the lived experience. Now, with my own experiences of dropping things without apparent reason or unintentionally bumping into objects, I possess a newfound empathy for those facing coordination challenges.

 

In retrospect, it’s apparent that we often base our perceptions and judgments on our personal experiences. It takes a significant event or shift in our lives to broaden our understanding and allow us to see through another’s lens. For me, the aftermath of the stroke, with its challenges and revelations, became a significant event. It taught me the importance of patience, both with myself and others and highlighted the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

 

In embracing my new reality, I’ve learned to navigate through physical challenges and deepened my compassion and understanding for others. We all have our battles, seen or unseen, and it’s crucial to approach every individual with kindness and patience.

 

In closing, my message to all reading this is simple: Let us not wait for a transformative event to teach us empathy. Let’s embrace understanding and compassion as core tenets of our daily lives, making our world a little kinder, one interaction at a time.

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Refining My Measurement Strategy

Hello Dear Readers,

Upon reflecting on my recent self-measurement routine, I’ve concluded that some adjustments are in order. My original blueprint entailed a monthly self-measurement, but upon further inspection, I’ve recognized certain imperfections in that plan.

 

To be specific, there’s always a margin of error in measurements, especially if taken infrequently. Such errors, though minor, can accumulate over time and offer a skewed view. Therefore, the more frequently I collect data, the more accurate my averages will be, as they’ll iron out these tiny inconsistencies.

 

I’ve decided to transition to a weekly measurement schedule with this realization. Not only will this give me a more precise understanding of my progress, but it’ll also spread out the task, making each session less burdensome. However, rather than trying to measure my entire body in one go each week, I’ll distribute the task throughout the week.

 

Here’s the game plan: On every run day, I’ll measure two specific parts of my body. This structured approach ensures I don’t get overwhelmed by the task and can gradually become more adept at the process. As for Saturdays, they’ll be my catch-up days. Should I miss out on any measurements during the week, Saturdays will allow me to make up for it.

 

I believe that this revised approach strikes a harmonious balance. Each measuring session will be shorter, making it more manageable. Moreover, the regularity will enhance accuracy and aid in making the process second nature to me. The more frequently I measure, the more proficient I’ll become, reducing the likelihood of errors and increasing comfort with the process.

 

In the grand scheme, it’s always wise to reassess and adjust our strategies as we gather more insights. This updated measurement routine will serve me better, offering more accurate data and a smoother experience.

 

Thank you for joining me on this journey of self-awareness and continuous improvement.

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Relearning to Type After My Stroke

Hello Dear Readers,

Relearning a skill after a life-changing event is physically challenging and emotionally taxing. This has been my reality since experiencing a stroke, which severely affected my ability to type efficiently.

I fondly recall the days when my fingers would effortlessly dance on the keyboard at speeds of up to 200 words per minute. However, I struggle to achieve even a quarter of that pace post-stroke. The reason? My stroke took a toll on my muscle memory and compromised the strength and sensitivity of my left side. These physical limitations and my vivid memories of faster typing days have made the whole experience particularly disheartening.

It’s not merely the slowness but the inaccuracy that accompanies it. Each typo stands as a reminder of the capability I once had and the distance I have yet to cover to regain it. This sense of loss and nostalgia has often tempted me to shy away from the dedicated effort required to reacquire my typing proficiency. Despite these feelings, deep down, I remain hopeful. I believe I can rebuild this skill from scratch with perseverance and consistent effort.

Creating this blog has been a blessing in disguise for my recovery journey. It’s become more than just a platform for me to share my thoughts; it’s my daily typing exercise. I’m determined to challenge myself further by typing with both hands, even if it’s initially slower than just one. The silver lining? While my fingers might have forgotten their dance steps momentarily, my mind hasn’t. I can mentally map the keyboard layout, even if getting my fingers to follow requires deliberate thinking.

 

Day by day, as I write, I can feel the incremental improvements. The small victories, like fewer typos or slightly faster typing speeds, motivate me to persist. Given the time and intention to continue sharing my journey through this blog, I remain optimistic about reclaiming my former typing prowess.

 

I hope my story offers hope for anyone reading this and facing their set of challenges, whether related to a stroke or not. Recovery and relearning might be slow, but with patience and determination, progress is inevitable.

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Navigating Life’s Roadblocks: When Driving Takes a Backseat

Hello Dear Readers,

 

Life is full of twists, turns, and unexpected roadblocks. For me, one of those detours was a stroke that meant I had to relinquish my driving privileges. Let’s be clear – driving with double vision wasn’t an option. Safety First is a motto I stand by. Putting myself and others in danger on the road was simply unthinkable.

 

Coincidentally, my grandfather found himself in a similar situation around my stroke. A man with an unyielding passion for driving, he had reached a point where his ability to navigate the roads had become questionable. Despite the apparent risks, he clung to his independence, holding on to his keys longer than most felt was wise. The family debates over his driving, particularly between him and my mother, were common, filled with arguments and exasperation.

 

Drawing from these familial experiences, when the time came for me to evaluate my driving capabilities post-stroke, I didn’t resist. Admittedly, I didn’t share my grandfather’s fervent attachment to driving, which made my transition easier. For him, driving was more than just a mode of transportation; it was a cherished activity. While I enjoyed the freedom that came with driving, I could let it go without feeling a significant void in my life.

 

Fast forward to today, and I can handle an automatic car safely. There’s a snag, though. My wife and I own just one vehicle, and it’s equipped with a standard transmission. While I’ve come to terms with not being behind the wheel, I can’t help but sometimes feel a pang of guilt. My wife now bears the sole responsibility for our driving needs. She’s the designated driver each time we venture out, whether for grocery shopping, social visits, or appointments. It’s a load I wish I could help carry, even if just occasionally.

 

However, I’m optimistic about the future. The world is on the brink of a transportation revolution. We’re inching closer and closer to the era of fully autonomous cars. Imagine that – vehicles that don’t need human intervention, capable of taking us from point A to B safely and efficiently. Once these vehicles become commercially available, they’ll be game-changers for people like me. Not only will they alleviate the driving responsibility from my wife’s shoulders, but they’ll also restore a measure of the independence I’ve lost. Running errands, visiting friends, or just going for a drive will be unrestricted by my current constraints.

 

To sum it up, life sometimes throws curveballs that unexpectedly alter our paths. While the inability to drive has been a temporary setback, the horizon looks promising. With technological advancements, our roads are set to become more inclusive, ensuring everyone can enjoy the journey, regardless of personal challenges.

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The Paradox of “Luck” in Adversity

Hello, dear readers,

The notion of “luck” has always intrigued me, mainly when presented in the face of challenging circumstances. During my time in rehabilitation following the aftermath of a stroke, I was frequently greeted with comments on how “fortunate” I was to have emerged from the ordeal in the condition that I had. Hearing such statements always provoked mixed feelings within me. While I was grateful for my progress, branding my experience as mere luck seemed a bit off.

 

Think of it this way: surviving a lightning strike might seem fortunate, given the odds. However, the fact that one got struck by lightning in the first place arguably outweighs any perceived “luck” in surviving. In my eyes, I would have considered myself truly lucky if I hadn’t experienced the stroke at all.

 

The interpretation of luck extends beyond just my experiences. My wife, a dedicated professional, often receives comments about how “lucky” she is to have the knowledge and skills she does. Such remarks overlook the countless hours she’s invested in honing her expertise. Dismissing her achievements as mere luck undermines the dedication and hard work she has poured into her craft.

 

I don’t deny that there’s a specific element of fortune in my situation. Yes, things could have been much worse, and I’m grateful for the level of recovery I’ve achieved. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this recovery hasn’t been a mere twist of fate. My journey back to health has resulted from relentless effort, countless decisions, and the unwavering support of medical professionals and loved ones.

 

In conclusion, while luck may play a role in our lives, it’s essential to recognize and respect the hard work and decisions behind the scenes that often make the most significant difference.

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Understanding Kidney Function and Body Temperature After a Stroke

Hello Dear Readers,

The kidneys, those bean-shaped organs sitting pretty in our lower back, wear multiple hats when it comes to our body’s overall health. One of their most critical roles is regulating our body temperature. And, if, like me, you’ve faced the aftermath of a stroke, this role becomes even more evident. Post-stroke, I observed a peculiar change: I began to feel colder more easily. The culprit? A compromised kidney function.

The changing of seasons is a beautiful phenomenon to witness. Leaves changing colors, the transition from warm sunshine to chilly breezes, and the metamorphosis of our environment. However, these changes come with unique challenges for someone like me. As the calendar pages turn and the weather adopts a colder temperament, I’m jolted into the realization that my internal thermostat isn’t as reliable as it once was. Now, nature has its way, and human adaptability is a force to reckon with. 

 

My first line of defense against this new-found chill was to invest in a cozy bathrobe, ensuring I stayed warm indoors. And truth be told, it did its job wonderfully. But sometimes, when the cold was particularly nippy, even within the confines of my home, I had to call for backup. Enter the space heater, my trusted ally in my quest for warmth.

 

Yet, during the previous winter, I stumbled upon a revelation. It appeared that simple, short bursts of exercise could amp up my body’s heat production. Who would’ve thought? Not only did this approach provide warmth, but it also complemented my recovery goals. So, every couple of hours, I adopted a routine. A brief interlude of planking became my secret weapon against the cold. Just a minute or so was all it took to get my blood pumping and generate that much-needed warmth.

 

Though no one wishes to be caught in the uncomfortable grasp of cold, there’s a silver lining here. It brought forth an unexpected motivator, propelling me to be more active. While the cold sensation was a byproduct of my compromised kidney function post-stroke, it inadvertently pushed me to incorporate exercise into my routine, yielding multiple benefits.

 

In summary, as daunting as they may appear, life’s challenges often present us with hidden opportunities. Understanding my body post-stroke and adapting to its new needs has been a journey for me. But as with every journey, it’s the lessons learned and the growth experienced that truly matter. Stay warm and stay motivated, dear readers.

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The Unexpected Void: No Near-Death Experience After My Stroke

Hello Dear Readers,

 

As I slowly regained consciousness after a stroke, an unsettling realization hit me: the absence of a transformative near-death experience. Hollywood and literature often depict the brink of death as a pivotal, life-changing moment, pushing individuals toward profound revelations. Regrettably, my own experience did not align with this narrative.

In all honesty, I felt robbed. I anticipated awakening to profound memories or some ethereal journey, only to find none. My reality was akin to a deep sleep – a void, an unremarkable period of nothingness. The cynic in me couldn’t help but think, “Was this it?” This void left me grappling with an unsettling blend of disappointment and uncertainty.

The weight of what I had lost and the unknown ahead weighed heavily on me. But then, an epiphany occurred. It wasn’t through some ethereal journey but a quiet determination bubbling from within. I resolved not to wallow in the absence of a mystical experience but to focus on physical and emotional healing.

The path to recovery was by no means easy. Basic functions like walking became lessons to relearn. These tasks, albeit challenging, became a welcome distraction from the void I felt. They allowed me to refocus my energy from what didn’t happen to what I could make happen.

If my life was to be transformed post-stroke, it wouldn’t be by an elusive near-death experience but by the sheer will and determination emanating from within me. My transformation would be built on perseverance, resilience, and self-belief, not cinematic fantasies.

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Adapting Our Diet After Health Setbacks: A Balance of Needs

Hello, dear readers,

 

My wife and I have faced our fair share of health challenges, and adjusting to each has taught us resilience, adaptability, and the art of finding balance. After I suffered a stroke and was diagnosed with kidney failure, the most immediate and profound change we faced was modifying our diet to fit the new restrictions and nutritional needs.

 

I have always taken pride in maintaining a relatively healthy diet. However, the foods I once thought were nourishing were suddenly unsuitable for my condition. The primary dietary culprit? Salt. Though I never had a penchant for it and rarely added it to my food post-cooking, this seemingly innocuous white crystal now had more prominence in my dietary considerations.

 

While salt was straightforward to identify and reduce, phosphorous was a different challenge. Unlike sodium, phosphorous content isn’t always itemized in products’ nutritional facts. Imagine my surprise when I learned that dark green veggies, generally synonymous with good health, were now off my list due to their high phosphorous content. Cow’s milk, another staple in many households, also joined the list of items to be consumed cautiously.

 

But why this sudden apprehension towards phosphorous? My layman’s understanding of biochemistry provided a somewhat concerning answer. High phosphorous concentrations in the blood can bind with calcium sourced from our bones. Over time, this process can pave the way for osteoporosis – a condition marked by fragile bones. With this knowledge, my wife and I embarked on an exhaustive online research mission. We sought to identify foods that would benefit me and those we’d be better off avoiding.

 

Adapting to these dietary changes felt like we were navigating a minefield. It’s akin to discovering you are allergic to an unspecified food group. It’s challenging, especially when an element like phosphorous is essential for life and can’t be wholly excluded from one’s diet.

 

A new challenge emerged as we diligently started eliminating sodium from our meals. My wife began experiencing symptoms of sodium deficiency. It was a poignant reminder that one size doesn’t fit all, especially regarding nutrition. We had to strike a meticulous balance – ensuring I had minimal sodium intake. At the same time, my wife received adequate amounts to remain healthy.

 

This experience has been enlightening, teaching us about the intricate nuances of food and nutrition. It’s a continuous journey of learning, unlearning, and relearning. But together, we have found a way to tread this dietary tightrope, supporting each other through every bite and every meal.