...oh yeah, I am already there.
Although there is no specific age declaring you are fully grown, I'm starting to realize that I should really have all my ducks in a row by now.
I am now in my 30's, married with kids, have a job I love and we are always planning for potential possibilities in the future.
With all of that you would think I would feel "grown up," but it wasn't until a Dr appointment last week that it all really sunk in.
I have had chronic back and neck pain since I was 15. FIFTEEN years of pain, physical therapy, chiropractic care, massages, pain killers, and muscle relaxers all without any substantial long term improvement. Six years ago, when I was at my most healthy weight, I was told I had bulging discs at the base of my neck and did six months of cervical traction that wasn't helping, then I started getting massages on a regular basis that gave more pain relief and made my migraines more infrequent. I've continued my own routine of monthly massages with occasional muscle relaxers until this summer when I knew something else had to be wrong. The 2 bulging discs are now both herniated.
I'm only 30! SERIOUSLY!
My NP was baffled that I had not been in a car accident or some other traumatic event to have caused this, and why I wasn't asking for pain meds.
So, I guess I am finally a grown up, with knees that predict storms and a neck/back that gives me good and bad days.
All that being said, my game plan is not going to change. I've always had the goal of getting into Nursing Education after having 10 years experience, and this is my kick start back to school! I'm going to continue to work where I am at because I am happy there and have learned more in the last year than I ever thought possible.
I am no longer in denial, and look forward to the journey ahead :o)
What experience made you realize you were a "grown up?"
