Salt is A Deadly Weapon

 

photo by Charles Earl

The doctor told me something good; she said that she would give me a referral to the Diabetes Community Education Centre of Ottawa (see adjacent link) and someone would contact me to set up a consultation. They have dieticians, nurses and kinesiologists. This was reassuring to me. Charles and I have had to deal with a lot of stuff, like many of you, I’m sure, but even during my health crisis we weren’t alone. Aside from amazing friends, the medical staff at the General was exceptionally caring and helpful. I always feel less afraid and alone when I have help and support. I need that in this case very much. I’m trying not to be daunted or overwhelmed.

Today I was out trying to figure out a few things that I might be able to eat that wouldn’t cause a blockage but were low in carbs and sugar and sodium. I was in my local grocery store randomly reading ingredients lists and acting shocked at the amount of sodium in everything when my cell phone rang. It was the referral, a very kind and patient dietician. I abandoned the two items in my cart: apples, raspberries, and stepped outside to talk to her. I turned the corner and sat on one of those yellow plastic containers filled with salt to keep folks from slipping on icy sidewalks. And unfortunately salt is one of the things I’m supposed to enjoy only in moderation. I enjoyed our conversation above the salty box, once I could hear her over the traffic. And the salt was delicious.

She listened to my story (see previous entry) and invited me to attend a group workshop (which I’m not quite sure exactly what it’s about, but I said yes, because m y rule in dealing with health matters is to say yes to as many things that the medical profession suggests, if I can. I need to be open and I need to learn.

She also set up an individual consultation with her over Zoom. Both appointments are on Zoom, which I also find reassuring. We’re still dealing with a pandemic here, despite the magical thinking of politicians. So I have my appointments. I enjoyed a little almond butter on apples, and things are moving forward.