Keep Breathing - Real Women Speak

By Gwen Curran

Keep breathing.   Two very important words.   Recently there was a story in the local paper about a woman reaching the unbelievable age of 105.  When asked her secret to a long, healthy life, she replied, "Keep breathing."   Two important words.  As long as you are breathing, you are alive and of this world.  Let's not waste a single breath.

This is my Medical week.  Eyes, ears, nose, throat, and my "bionic" hip are on the agenda.

Yesterday I had my annual physical with my primary care doctor.  She has moved to a beautiful new office in the south hills of Eugene.  Waiting for my time with her, I noticed that I was enjoying the view of the trees outside and the spaciousness of the office.  And...I was paying attention to my breathing.  Up earlier than usual for a retired woman, I had rushed through breakfast, taken a quick shower, dressed, and driven across town for my morning appointment.  I needed to take some deep breaths and slow down.  I have often thought that the doctor's waiting room is a place to do just that.  Slow down.  My doctor has very relaxing music playing in the background, which helps with the process.

First the doctor and I had a chat about my life and how I was doing.  I showed her my eye glasses.  She was puzzled.  "See", I said, "No more Fresnel lenses.  My double vision, that came on suddenly 2 years ago, is gone!"  She gave me a high-five as a little celebration.

Then I put on one of those "stunning gowns"  doctors use for the poking and prodding part of the exam.  "Breathe deeply, please," she said.  "Again, please.  Now keep breathing normally."

Well, when all was said and done, at 82 I received an A+ for my physical health, which made me happy.... and she even took me off one of my meds.  Hurrah!  My steps were a little lighter as I left the doctor's office and gave myself a mental pat on the back for eating right, maintaining a healthy weight, walking, dancing, and going to the gym.  I am looking forward to seeing my orthopedic surgeon tomorrow for a survey of my right hip replacement from 5 years ago.   That was one of the best decisions I have ever made.  Unlike 5 years ago, I can breathe, walk, exercise, and dance without pain.  I give thanks to twenty-first century medicine, excellent doctors, and a great hospital!

Daily life is full of promise.  When I awake in the morning, I take a deep breath, get out of bed and think about my day.  Whether it be a trip to the doctor, a birthday party, or a funeral, there is always a promise of caring and love.

Remember:  keep breathing...

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Welcome to Real Women Speak , where you’ll hear the voices of Oregon women who are struggling, soaring, muddling through and motivated to move forward.

Inspired by Decide.Create.Share, this blog chronicles stories from lighthearted happenings to questions of fortitude. From life-altering changes to simple anecdotes, our shared narratives serve to inspire, guide, and connect us.

Every woman has a voice. AARP Oregon seeks to amplify them.

About our guest blogger: Gwen Curran, retired teacher who has volunteered with OR AARP for 10 years.  Right now she is finishing her first novel and will publish by 2015.  She is also a member of Senior Moments, a Eugene performing dance group, writes the dance reviews for the Eugene Register Guard, enjoys her friends, and stays in close touch with her family in California, New York City, Seattle, and Denver.  Life is good.