"My Supports"

This is Byron, he is married to my friend and colleague, Stephanie. They have one daughter, Elleigh who will be two in April. Byron is a first grade teacher during the week and a rodeo cowboy during the rodeo season. Two weeks ago, Byron's horse rolled head over heels with Byron in the saddle. As the horse went to right himself, he rolled over Byron again. Stephanie and Elleigh were there and rode the ambulance to the trauma center and prayed that he would live.

I would need a lot of support if I were in Stephanie's shoes. I would want someone with me at all times to tell me that things were going to be OK. The person in my life who I count on the most in times of stress is my husband, Matt. If he was seriously injured, I would be a mess. Emotionally, I would need reassurance, someone to hold my hand, someone to cry with, someone to talk to, someone to help me sort through all of my feelings. Mostly my fears.

Practically, I would need someone to make sure my responsibilities were covered.  I would need help sorting through insurance. I would need someone to take over my classes at school. I would need to find somewhere to stay. I would need someone to bring me what I need from home so I wouldn't have to leave Matt's side. I would need someone to take care of things at home, the mail, the shoveling, and all the other things we just do without thought that need to be done.

Physically, I would need to be near Matt. It would be so hard to leave him in the hospital each night. I would probably need someone to remind me to eat and to get outside for some fresh air. I would probably need medication to help me sleep. I would surely be a wreck.

As I write this entry, I can think of people who would jump right in without being asked to help. I know that I really wouldn't need to worry about anything except being there for my husband. I am blessed with a chosen family here in my community and my real family all over the state who would just be there. The factors that would be supportive if I were in Stephanie's shoes are friends, family, good health insurance, a supportive work community, plenty of sick time, a home that is paid for, the ability to navigate a hospital setting and the aftercare necessary to get Matt back on his feet. My daughters live in three different states but I have no doubt they would drop everything to be here for us if we needed them. I have plenty of support.

Byron will be OK but not for a long while. His injuries were life threatening. Steph and Byron will need lots of support over the next several months. I am happy to be there for them. I know she would do the same for me.