CW: Pet loss
2021 is coming to an end. This year was a challenging one. Fortunately, I was able to stay healthy for most of this year and COVID-19 free. Let’s talk about the highlights of the year.
My beloved childhood dog ended up developing cancer, and my family made the difficult decision to put him to sleep. Losing him was harder than I thought. As I look back on the decade my family had with Lowell, I cherish all of the beautiful memories and companionship he gave us. He loved unconditionally.
I received a new power wheelchair. In March of this year, my new power wheelchair was finally delivered after waiting over a year. The night before the wheelchair was scheduled to arrive, I hardly slept. I felt excitement akin to what I felt on Christmas Eve as a child. The following morning, I waited eagerly in the driveway for the company’s van to arrive.
Once I saw my new power chair, I couldn’t wait to get in it. I felt the same way as I imagine some people might feel when getting a new car. It was all shiny and new. After the assistive technology professional made the final adjustments and I signed the paperwork, I happily raced around my apartment.
My insurance, however, denied the seat elevation function on my new power wheelchair because they deemed it not to be “medically necessary.” Ultimately, the kindness of my community allowed me to have iLevel on my chair. To all of the people who donated and shared my campaign: please know that I am forever grateful for your support. Your kindness has allowed me to live a more independent life and explore more of the world around me. I have so much more freedom and independence, thanks to your generosity. It is difficult to express in words how much your support means to me.
I closed out the year by attending my cousin’s Bar Mitzvah and our annual family Christmas party. The family Christmas party was a joyous occasion as it always is. I saw many of my cousins whom I hadn’t seen in a couple of years. In the Yankee Swap, I ended up coming home with a nice set of bath towels.
The following weekend was my cousin’s Bar Mitzvah. It was amazing to see my cousin become a man in the eyes of the Jewish faith. He worked so hard to see that day. I enjoyed learning more about Judaism in the process. I was honored that his parents requested my presence during their son’s special day.
2021 was a challenging year in more ways than one. It was filled with ups and downs. May 2022 bring good health and fortune to all of us.
Wonderful