Just wanted to thank my brother Todd Frey for all his kindhearted encouragement. I am not one to hide or be overly secrative about my struggles with Mental Illness though I do keep many of the unpleasant details to myself. For the past several months he has dedicated himself to listening without judgment, providing positive input without criticism, while refraining from giving overzealous advice or reminding me of my failings but instead recalling my successes.
He is consistently reaching out, helping me look for solutions and spending his own valuable time researching ways for me to cope and potentially overcome. He is always full of ppzositive messages reminding me that there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel. At points when I want to give up he encourages me to keep going, often with a stern tone.
About a month or so ago he shared with me that exercise has been beneficial to his health and coping with his own life stressors. He managed to convince me that it may also help alleviate the depression and anxiety I was trapped in which are symptoms of OCD in my case.
He mowed a lengthy trail around some acreage owned by my parents and began using it daily as a walking route. Shortly after he began using it I was persuaded to join him. Afterwards he insisted that I walk 4 laps a day on the trail. I have been regimental about doing so for quite some time now. I have since also worked up to jogging 1 of the three laps while run/waking the other 3. I've also added push -ups and sit-ups to my routine trying to drive myself a little further in each of the three categories daily
It was brutal at first but Todd was adamant that I keep it up and assured me it would pay immense dividends, both physical and mental. Progress has been incrementally slow but noticable and the sense of pride I had after jogging my first entire lap was exceptionally rewarding though I almost passed out short of breath. I owe that feeling of pride to my insistent brother. Thanks for all you do!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment