The stages of grief are apparently predictable and treatable…some doctors say there are seven, but most agree there are five distinct stages to wallow through (my words) to recovery. I awoke this morning feeling dirty, defiled. I realized that by allowing myself to be goaded into reacting to a nasty and deeply personal internet article yesterday, I catapulted back from the depression-moving-toward-acceptance phase right back to the anger phase.
I am a very calm and controlled person under most circumstances. But when someone or thing pushes me to my anger threshold, beware. As K will tell you, when my Irish temper is unleashed, hell hath no fury.
After an invigorating swim in the brisk morning air, I found my center as I booted up to continue the cleanse. My focus is forward and my heart is clear. We have been asked by many, especially folks from the States, whether we would come “home” after what had happened. Our answer is a resounding, unanimous NO. We are solid in our commitment to stay…there are so many glorious things about this wondrous country, and we have yet to even scratch the surface.
Now that our pups are stabilized and obedient (most of the time 
But before we head out into the wild unknown, I felt it important to give some credit and exposure to the health system here in CR. We are self-insured at the moment because of our dual pre-existing conditions. When a loved one gets shot (or has some other life-threatening condition), money is no object. When the paramedics asked what hospital to take K to, I did not hesitate. CIMA, I said. Yes, it’s the most expensive, but it’s also the best, or so they say. Our experience at CIMA was amazing on all levels. We have both experienced many hospitals in our cumulative lives, so we have a basis for comparison. K has exclaimed many times since his surgery that this was the best experience he has ever had in a hospital, and that’s a lot, including two Mayo’s and multiple surgeries in the States. And the cost? Less than our annual insurance premium and deductible was in the States. So the ‘rumors’ that CR is becoming a medical destination are true – and well deserved.
May. 26, 2019
Judy Richter 