The Best Wheelie-Walker

A friend and I were recently talking about someone we both know who had just received devastating health news. This came after a few tough years for this smart, caring, and resilient person. My friend was on her way to spend time with her, help with appointments, and simply be there.

She had been checking in regularly and was worried about how her friend was handling things emotionally. We found ourselves reflecting on how differently people cope in these situations. Some face hardship with humour and grace, while others withdraw or lash out—and both reactions make sense, given the weight of what they’re facing.

She shared a story about an older couple she knew who had met later in life. Both were dealing with medical issues, but their reactions couldn't have been more different. The husband, understandably frustrated by his situation, became irritable and refused to leave the house. He pushed away the people who were trying to help, including his wife, whom he loved dearly.

Meanwhile, his wife, who was also declining physically, greeted her challenges with a strikingly different attitude. When my friend visited, she would light up, excited to show off her new Wheelie Walker, the only way she could get around. “Isn’t this the best thing ever? I’ve got a seat and a basket, and it’s red! It’s a bit tough in the sand, but what a wonderful device.”

As we talked, we both wondered: how can we choose the more positive path when life gets hard?

We thought that one way was by staying connected. Isolation can magnify our struggles, so reaching out to friends and loved ones, even if just to talk, can help keep us grounded. We can also practice gratitude, focusing on what we can still do rather than what we’ve lost. Finding small joys, like a walk in the fresh air or a favourite activity, can remind us that life still holds beauty, even in difficult times.

Most importantly, we thought it important to be gentle with ourselves and each other. Not everyone will be able to put on a brave face every day, but by offering support and understanding, we can help each other navigate those tough moments.

Even though we don’t see each other often or live in the same state, we made a pact to help each other choose a more positive path and continue to be a support in tough times -which is what friends are for.