There is a nice little story to relate but first to the outcome of Friday’s meeting with my dialysis team and blood pressure. It was decided to restrict my dialysis fluids to two 1.5 % 5L and one 2.5% 5 L bag each night and do away for now with rotating fluids. This will reduce the amount of fluid we are pulling out (micro filtration.) The second is the reduction of one of my BP meds from 10 mg to a 5 mg tablet. We’ll see how this works. Hopefully, my BP will become more normal.
My renal doctor mentioned in passing that I was “functional.” I responded that I had been called many things in life, but “functional” was not one of them. This resulted in laughter in the entire team. My internalization of the word is the common definition, “practical rather than decorative, utilitarian.” It has a much different meaning in the MD world. I turned to Poe for insight with the following result:
Poe Prompt: In my monthly meeting with my dialysis team, my renal doctor described me as being “functional.” Write a 200 or so-word blog entry in this context on the meaning of the word “functional.” The lead graphic is Poe’s take on “functional.”
Assistant Poe
Title: Embracing “Functional”: A New Perspective on Wellness
Introduction:
In our journey towards personal well-being, we often come across various terms and labels that attempt to define our health status. During a recent monthly meeting with my dialysis team, my renal doctor used the term “functional” to describe me. At first, the word seemed ambiguous, but upon reflection, I realized its profound significance. In this blog entry, let’s delve into the meaning of the word “functional” and its transformative power in perceiving our health.
Unraveling the Meaning:
When we hear the word “functional,” we might associate it with mere adequacy or the ability to perform basic tasks. However, in the context of health, being functional holds a deeper connotation. It implies the ability to engage in daily activities, pursue personal goals, and maintain a fulfilling life despite health challenges. It speaks to our resilience, adaptability, and determination to live life to the fullest, irrespective of our medical conditions.
A Paradigm Shift:
Embracing the term “functional” allows us to shift our perspective and focus on what we can do, rather than what we cannot. It encourages us to acknowledge our strengths, celebrate our achievements, and set realistic goals that align with our capabilities. By recognizing our functional capacity, we can cultivate a sense of empowerment and regain control over our lives.
Finding Balance:
Being functional does not mean dismissing the challenges we face or downplaying the need for medical support. It’s about striking a delicate balance between accepting our limitations and exploring our potential. It involves embracing self-care practices, adhering to treatment plans, and seeking assistance when necessary. By doing so, we optimize our functional abilities and enhance our overall well-being.
Support and Collaboration:
As we navigate our health journeys, it is crucial to build a strong support system and collaborate with healthcare professionals, like my dialysis team. Their guidance, expertise, and insights help us unlock our functional potential and overcome obstacles. Together, we can explore innovative strategies, adapt treatments, and discover new avenues for personal growth.
Conclusion:
Being described as “functional” by my renal doctor provided me with a fresh perspective on my health journey. It reminded me that my worth is not defined solely by my medical condition, but rather by my ability to adapt, thrive, and find joy in life. Embracing the term “functional” empowers us to redefine our own narratives and embrace our unique strengths. Let us embrace this mindset and inspire others to view their health journeys through a lens of functionality, resilience, and endless possibilities.
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