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December 14, 2024
Two years ago this weekend, my life took an unexpected turn when I suffered a Cerebral Stroke.
Thankfully, I have been able to recover most of my abilities and except for some minor issues common to people of my vintage, I have pretty much fully recovered.
In fact, I have more than fully recovered because after the Stroke I decided to make some major lifestyle changes - less drinking, better diet, more exercise - and today I am stronger and healthier than I was pre-Stroke.
Another factor that has had a major impact on my recovery is the increased presence of my grandson Riley in my life.
Riley and his mom and dad moved in with us about six months after my Stroke.
His parents - Caroline and Timmy - are in the process of relocating to this area and we have been happy to have them living with us while they establish their lives in new surroundings.
Since both of their jobs often call for them to work evenings - on those days I get the privilege of picking up Riley from his school/daycare.
It takes about 12 minutes to get to his school and another 14 minutes to get back home.
When I get there, he is often reading a book by himself or with his teacher - Ms. Naya.
More than once I have arrived to find him wearing a pair of neon green toy eyeglasses.
On those days, I can't help but feel like I am picking up Elton John from school.
I love those days when I get to be Riley's chauffeur and try to pack as much fun as possible into those 14 minutes we have in the car returning home.
As driver and DJ during that trip, the background music can range from a few minutes of "Baby Shark" followed by an introduction to one of Rolling Stones more esoteric tracks such as "Girl with the Far Away Eyes."
The good news is that he absorbs whatever I play.
The only sad part about this arrangement is the fact that because of his age - he is 2 years old - Riley will probably not remember any of this when he gets older.
Upon this realization, I must admit I was sad for a moment.
But I soon realized that I have the great privilege of being part of his life right now and that I need to keep being part of his life for as long as I can.
Which basically boils down to the realization that I guess I will have to stay healthy enough for the next 20-plus years so I will be able to dance at his wedding.
I encourage anyone who does not have a grandson or granddaughter to get one - soon!
Or borrow one from a friend.
They will change your life in the most amazing way possible.
