Managing Expectations

I was watching an episode of Breaking Bad where the main couple, Walt and Sklar are sitting in the Oncologists office talking about Walt’s incurable lung cancer. Sklar mentions something about the treatment Walt is going through, how his color has improved and that this must be a good sign that the cancer is going away. The Oncologist, hesitantly talks about not “curing” but “treating” the cancer and about managing expectations.

I received a call from Kazia, Dad’s Occupational Therapist this week. Since the seizure, since starting up all three therapies again, his energy level is not as it was pre-seizure and when he was only in 2 of the 3 therapies. In discussions with Dad, she said how he would like to focus on strengthening his right leg, with the hope that there comes a day where he won’t have to wear a leg e. So, as she put it, she’s pulling her therapy out to allow Dad’s energy and full attention to be with speech and physical therapy. Does she think he will be able to walk one day without a brace? She didn't say no, she didn't say yes. Managing expectations. It's all about that now.  If there is one thing I have learned through this experience and all my experiences is to manage your expectations. Not lower them, but manage them.

I talked to Dad later that night about his goal. I told him if this is what he wants to focus on then that is what we will do and we will work as hard as we can to reach this goal. All things are still possible, with this as with everything.