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Have You Ever Been Humbled Like This?

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Sterling, CO

Last time I mowed the yard, my wife saw that it was a struggle for me. I got short of breath and a bit light-headed. Today, she asked me to show her exactly how to mow our small lawn. At first, I was resistant. I am not ready to quit mowing just yet. So, I started mowing despite her request…I did about half or so. But then I tired, so I turned it over to her. It is a heavy push mower, so it was sort of difficult for her. We agreed we would tag team the lawn mowing this summer. Next year, we will… read more

June 22, 2024
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Answer Summary

Members deeply related to the emotional challenge of accepting physical limitations with PAH, with many sharing how their spouses have... Read more

Members deeply related to the emotional challenge of accepting physical limitations with PAH, with many sharing how their spouses have lovingly stepped in to help with tasks like lawn mowing, housework, and daily activities that were once manageable. Several members described practical adaptations including hiring help for yard work and housekeeping, working in second gear instead of high speed, creating priority lists to tackle only essential tasks, and learning the hard way that overdoing it leads to days of severe breathlessness and exhaustion. A recurring theme was gratitude for supportive partners who understand the progressive nature of PAH, the importance of pacing oneself and adjusting self-expectations without losing self-worth, and choosing to focus on maintaining a positive outlook and faith rather than mourning lost abilities.

A myPHteam Member

Yes. I have given up or modified how I do things. I used to go at everything high-speed, now its more like second gear. I even started making a priority list, that way I do the most needed things first. And tackle only what I feel like doing. Mowing grass is most definitely not on my list! It's good to have a spouse who understands and wants to help. A positive outlook makes life better. God bless.

June 25, 2024
A myPHteam Member

God bless your wife! My husband steps in without me asking on the days he knows I'm struggling. I think it's normal as we age to be resistant to help from outside sources. We like to think we're still young enough to do the things we used to. The same is true when you are struggling with an illness like PAH. We want to be able to do the things we did before illness struck. In the past several years I've learned to accept that there are things I simply can't do like I used to and focus on the things I can do.

June 22, 2024
A myPHteam Member

Try to always choose happiness!

June 22, 2024
A myPHteam Member

PAH is very humbling! I am thankful that I also have a spouse that will help with simple things. It is also making me rely on God. We are all in his hands. Even the healthy ones! Hang in there and give it to God.

June 23, 2024
A myPHteam Member

StevenSmith2 God loves you more when you are humble. That is a good thing!

June 23, 2024

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