Every couple of months, when I take my journey to Fort Worth to visit my specialist, I have to participate in an oxygen study. As my disease attacks my muscles and I become paralyzed, the worst-case scenario is that my muscles affect my lungs and I can struggle to breathe, or I will not be able to. 

To make sure my lungs continue to function properly, I first have to sit in a big chair and just breathe normally. This usually lasts about 15 minutes, and I cannot talk or move. I have a huge mask on my face that is connected to a device that monitors my breathing. Then the “fun” part is next. 

I have 10 minutes to walk as much as I can. I travel up and down the hallway, counting how many times I can go down and back. My breath is still being monitored as the mask is still on my face. However, the device is now attached to my back. It looks kinda silly and is not the most fun process. It usually takes a while to get everything going, and I’m not allowed to eat before I do it. 

While it might be a pain, it is an important step in my self-care that ensures I am safe and my disease does not take over.

Next week I will touch on recent physical activity I have been able to do. I can’t wait to continue to share my story with you! Remember our struggles don’t define us.