White Dog agreed that the White Dog Army was a very clever and fast learning bunch. She provided insight into the newly developed habit of members stopping a few steps ahead of me when we move and turning back. I simply thought they did not understand my need for momentum in my impaired mobility that was compounded by dragging the oxygen hose; I was wrong.
"Momma, we watch you all of the time and have learned how best to work with you and around you to protect you and keep you safe. You might have noticed that at least one or two of us lie on the extra length of hose that pools around when you sit. When you shift or get up we can feel the movement on the hose and are prepared to respond.
"When you announce that you are getting up or are going to walk, we sing your intent so the entire WDA knows to stay out of the way and clear space. But we do not want to get so far out of the way that we are not there to assist.
"As you have good days and bad days...and even sometimes across a single day...your gait and speed change. And the middle of th
e night is your most uncertain time, did you know that, momma?
"All of us try to move just far enough ahead to not be stepped on or tripped over but we want to stay close and match your walking. We want you to know we are there for you to help if needed. Getting well and recovering is an evolution and if we are to be effective nurses, we must be aware of changes in you...and adapt.
"We appreciate your fear of falling on one of us and try to stay beyond that boundary; you should focus on you not on us. We will take care of you for now, you do so much for us."
I sat silently and rubbed my Girl's furs. How lucky am I, I thought, to have such an observant and caring pack. They have noticed things that escape the scrutiny of my health professionals and recognize that their encouragement is the best medicine.
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