No one cares when you are sick...

No one cares when you are sick... well that's how it can feel sometimes right? 

As a parent, there are no sick days, no time off and sometimes it can feel like you have no support.  Today I am writing about this subject because I know it is something that is completely relevant - especially at this time of year when colds and the flu is everywhere (plus I have a wicked head cold).  I want to help you! 

When you have a child with special needs, if you are sick or rundown this can be a particularly taxing time.  So let's get prepared. Little steps now can be a lifesaver when you feel average.

In the Calming the Chaos course, we are all about predictable problems - you anticipate trouble spots and problem solve before they hit.  It is pretty safe to say that sickness is a predictable problem.  It will happen at some stage.  So let's get prepared.  Here are some very easy action steps that you can do this week to ensure that if and when sickness hits it doesn't turn your whole life upside down.

1. Stockpile your dinners:

I say this a lot, but seriously, it makes such a difference.  When you cook a family dinner, cook two batches and freeze one.  Label and place the spare meal in the freezer.  If you are sick or rundown, you can use your meal stockpile and heat up the preprepared meal.  No fuss, minimal cleaning and everyone still eats healthy home cooked meals.  This is such a blessing!  Ideally I would like you to have seven meals in your freezer ready to go at all times.  Having some frozen lunchbox items can also be a lifesaver, you can freeze ready made sandwiches, meatballs, muffins, pizza slices, rissoles.

It takes minimal effort to create a stockpile of meals... but when you are sick - not having to cook and clean up can make all the difference.

2. Supplements:

Taking the right supplements can really help.  Get a good integrative GP or naturopath on your team!  Supplements can support you when you are sick and stop you getting sick as often.  But taking things at random from the healthfood shop might not cut it.  You need to have things tailored to you (by a professional) based on what your needs are. 

I talk a lot about MTHFR gene and pyrrole disorder.  I believe that the future of ADHD/ADD, anxiety and behavioural issues will be in genetics and supporting the individual, based on their genetic profile.  A lot of children with behavioural issues might have crazy high copper levels and might be severely low on zinc.  You could be too.  Something as simple as having the right zinc supplement for you or your child, could be the missing piece of the puzzle. Get tested for MTHFR people!!!

3. Don't leave things till the last minute

We have all done it right?  Our children get their homework on a Monday but we don't actually start it till Wednesday... by Wednesday we are tired and over it.  A little bit each day, stops it feeling like such a big task.  You may find it easier to do homework in the mornings with your special needs kids - often they are fresher and able to concentrate better in the morning (this is only achievable if you have everything ready the night before - see step 5). Little bits, more often are easier than big tasks in one go - especially when you are feeling under the weather.

4. Emergency person:

When times are really tough and you are seriously unwell, have an emergency person.  A close friend or family member, who will step in for you.  You can do the same for them when they are in a bad way. 

5. Doing what you can the night before:

The mornings are hectic right?  So set yourself up for success.  Get everything ready the night before.  Pack lunches, fill water bottles, lay the children's clothes out, put the library books in the bag - whatever they need for the next day.  Put the breakfast bowls and spoons etc out for the next morning.  This simple step means that you are organised for the morning and it can take some of the pressure off when you are sick. 

6. Prepare a list of what needs go into the school bag on what day and lunchbox items:

Have a list of what is required each day and what goes into lunchboxes.  That way if you are really unwell and someone else has to takeover they don't miss anything.

Heres an example:

Monday:

Xavier and Ashton - Spanish 8.30am (needs Spanish booklet)
Xavier - Surfing 3pm - 5.30pm (needs towel, swimmers and spare clothes)
Lunch - Meatballs (freezer) and chopped vege (fridge)
Recess - Cheese and rice crackers
Crunch and sip - Chopped apple 

7. Errand runner:

Most areas have a local errand runner these days, someone who you can pay to do your running around.  Pick kids up, take them to sport, do your shopping etc . If you are sick for a longer period of time it might be worthwhile knowing who these people are in advance and having their contact numbers.  Check on Facebook and Airtasker - find your person and have their number handy.

8. Look after yourself first:

When you are sick, times can be very tough as we are the glue that holds our households together.  So look after yourself.  You can't pour from an empty cup - look after yourself first.  We can't help our kids if we have nothing left to give - so take care of yourself.  Recognise when you are getting rundown and slowdown. Say no to social occasions and rest.  A healthy practice of self care is vital.

I used to get so upset when I was sick and I felt like no one cared.  My husband, isn't overly compassionate and I realised I was waiting for someone to swoop in and make everything better for me.  Someone to say 'you go to bed... I will take care of everything".  Well in 37 years that person has never arrived.  I never got the certificate that said 'I survived pudendal neuralgia and still got my kids to school on time".  The only person who is going to look after you is YOU.  So make a sickness plan and adjust your stance - so when the hurricane of life hits... you are ready.

Kindest regards
Sharon 

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