Thursday, January 27, 2011

Vending machine therapy

I bought a snack from a vending machine today for the first time since the stroke. Since January 2010, to be exact.

I didn't realize how complicated this process is: reading a random combination of letters and numbers; putting things in the right sequence (put in money first or push the button first?); math; some physical work (bending to retrieve the snack); and finally, opening the package.

Sometimes I feel triumphant when I can do things again. Other times I feel like an alien who's just landed on earth.

4 comments:

  1. I wanted to tell you how much I have enjoyed reading your blog. I find it funny, touching, bittersweet & sincere. I had an ischemic stoke a month ago, on Dec 26, and I am still coming to terms with it. I am 39 and have a daughter who is about to turn 5, so your blog really resonates with me. Thank you for sharing your story.

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  2. Thank you for writing. I've met only a handful parents of young kids who had a stroke, so thank you for reminding me that I'm not alone. I wish you the best of luck in your recovery.

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  3. Oh Grace.. all that work.. I sure hope you got a yummy snack from the vending machine!

    Personally I have been fighting hard with a combination lock at the pool. I am scared that I will be stuck in my bathing suit and unable to get my clothes from the locker.

    Linda In Winnipeg

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  4. I forgot the last step on the blog: eat! I was hungry.

    I had a good laugh about your pool comment. Maybe I won't take up swimming, after all.

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