I’ve got a very big day ahead of me, so it’s lucky I’ve woken with brilliant energy levels. Yesterday I wasn’t so lucky and it was a forced day of rest which seems to have done the trick.
First order of business is Riley’s vet visit at 10am for his second lot of vaccinations, weight check and a check over of how his skin is healing. Following this it will be a big petshop shop as we’re running on treats which are absolutely essential.
This afternoon I’m seeing Laura, Kalie and Amy. I cannot wait! Because of the inquiry and getting Riley I haven’t seen my friends since the beginning of January, so I’m loving finally getting to see everyone on the days mums working at home to cover Riley. Tuesday I got to spend time with Han and Arlie, so I’ve no doubt my heart is going to feel so full by the end of today.
This evening I’m co-hosting a UKCVFamily zoom social. We held more of these during the Inquiry to give members a place to decompress at the end of the day, but have continued with 3 a week since as so many find them helpful and comforting. The welfare of members is so important, and I’m looking forward to this evening as well because I love seeing everyone.
But, before both of those social interactions something huge is happening. I’m getting a delivery with 4 wheels. The day has finally come that I get my wheelchair!!
The fundraiser has done better than I expected and I’ve added what I’ve managed to squirrel away myself. Mum has given me an interest loan to cover the deficit. The loan was offered and agreed on last year, and I’m aware just how lucky I am to be in this position. It’s a worthwhile opportunity that I can have paid off within a year so I’m not too concerned. I know I wouldn’t be here at all if it was for every donor and every person who shared my fundraiser, so an enormous thank you goes to all of you. Your actions and generosity are the sole reason this lady will finally have back some independence and freedom at last.
To say today is a big and busy day would be an understatement, but I’m very excited. I’m also very anxious and I have a knot in my stomach, but I know that this aid is going to allow me to experience more of life. So I will continue while ignoring the negative voices in my head and the internalised shame at even needing this, because it’s not my fault and it’s really not a choice. For now, it can bring me to great things in the hopes that one day I may not need it.
The vets are done, so now it’s the wait for the chair delivery. It was a great appointment and Riley is officially NOT underweight! I couldn’t be happier, and his ideal weight is actually the same as Bella’s was, where we were all expecting him to be a 30kg+ dog. Now I have to break the news to him that his food is being reduced!