Many years ago, when I first had the need to be consistently mindful of my health and the stress it put on my body, one of my myriads of doctors told me something that has resonated with me all this time. He told me that those with chronic health issues, who learn how to care for their needs, live the healthiest lives. I know this is not necessarily debatable, it is simply a fact to be appreciated. If one has the need to eat healthy foods, drink enough fluids, exercise, and get enough rest in order to feel well enough to go through their day, that recipe usually translates into good practices for the rest of their lives.

I am one of those people who learned early on to eat properly, take a nap each day if needed, exercise regularly, finding one that I can at the very least, enjoy, and drink enough fluids (I add watermelon for fluids) Additionally, since I had my ileum, which is the lower part of the small intestine, removed in January 1993, and that part of the body absorbs and stores B12, I have gone from getting my monthly injections at a doctor’s office to injecting myself monthly. Now, I must be truthful…it is not as easy as it looks to perform this monthly ritual. I can imagine you shaking your head in agreement, thinking who wants to jab themselves deep into the thigh muscle? The funny thing is that is not the difficult part for me. Loading the syringe with the B12 substance is the challenge, and because I forget from month to month how to angle it properly, use gravity to help, not hinder the process, I you tube regularly before proceeding. This truly slows me down, and all who know me, know I am not one to slow down.

Here is a reason I mention this. Sometimes, when we are instructed to do something that might not seem to be necessary, because we do not see or feel a difference, like my B12 injections, we may decide to skip a month, and then, perhaps, another month. The months lead into half years, and then years, and before we know it, irreparable damage may be done. A B12 deficiency can cause neurological and motor skill issues, cognitive issues, fatigue, and many more. These will be subtle for a long time until the body is no longer able to function in the same way. Those with other abdominal issues or surgeries such as gastric bypass may also need an additional supply of B12, according to my research.

In my soon-to-be-published book, SO MUCH MORE THAN MY OSTOMY: LOVING MY PERFECTLY IMPERFECT BODY! I discuss other ways to maintain good physical and mental health, so please check that out if you are interested in more information.

Be well and enjoy spring. I believe there is nothing that makes us feel better than the first warm rays of sun each year. How wonderful to get our much-needed Vitamin D outdoors, just as Mother Nature intended!

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