Even though it's none of my business, I hate to see people become ill because they don't take care of themselves.
This came up for me this evening when I learned that someone I've known for a number of years ended up in the emergency room because he couldn't afford a medicine he must take each day to keep him alive. I'm not going to mention the medicine or the person to protect his anonymity.
However, I'm disappointed that he didn't talk to me about his lack of funds, because I would have helped him get the medication he needs to stay healthy.
One thing about men, is that we hate to go to the doctor. And, in many cases we also don't exercise or eat right. All I can figure is that it's a macho thing; we don't want to appear weak or to depend on others for our well-being.
One thing I decided 31 years ago - when I first got sober - was that I was going to stay healthy enough to enjoy the years I have left. Therefore, I have no problem visiting doctors on a regular schedule and taking the medications I'm prescribed. I didn't get sober to sit on my butt and rot away into decrepitude.
Simply getting sober isn't enough for me. I like to feel that I'm contributing to the world and to those around me. When I think of living sober I like to think of myself as an example to others. Sobriety is much more attractive when it looks like we're having fun and enjoying success.
I encourage anyone who needs medical care of any kind to talk to their house advisor about what resources are available. I promise that we'll come up with the medical care you need.
We have one staff member who works five days a week contacting doctors, dentists, and other healthcare professionals to help our peers who are in need of healthcare. And he's very good at getting dental care, glasses, and other medical assistance for those in need.
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