There are better things to do flat on my back.
I have been avoiding stores. They make me extra dizzy and off balance. I don’t know why. The B12 issues? The neuropathy? Because of this, and because she probably thinks I’m crazy, my neurologist this week told me to start “balance therapy.” Who knew? Sounds like something they would do on Rodeo Drive, but Salt Lake City?
So after avoiding it all week, I decide to make a quick trip to Albertsons to get a few things for Easter dinner. I push the cart as fast as I can. I get nauseated about four minutes into the store and my balance just keeps getting worse and worse.
Whew. I make it to the checkout and just as I am putting a loaf of bread on that conveyor belt thing that moves the food…down I go. The earth moved out from under me, and the next thing I know I am laying on my back on the floor of the checkout isle next to the candy rack.
I wasn’t even embarrassed. My first thought? Crap. I hope the shirt I am wearing is long enough to cover my stomach as I lay here spread on the floor. My second thought? I’m glad I have on a decent bra or my boobs would be split down the middle and laying on either side of my chest, also on the floor.
The staff was there in a split second and did everything right. “Do you have a medical condition we need to be aware of?” No (you don’t need to know about it). “Can we get you something to drink?” Yes, beer or vodka (they laughed). “Do we need to call an ambulance?” No. Oh, and somewhere in there while laying on the floor, I pulled my camera out of my purse and took a picture. (Hey, blog it baby.)
I laid on the floor for five minutes while one person rang up my groceries, one person blocked the isle so no new customers or gawkers could get through, and one person had the “medical emergency” manual open to make sure they were doing everything right. The manger kept checking me with medical questions.
Although little tears forced their way out of my eyes while laying on the floor, I didn’t have a complete meltdown until I was sitting in my car, somewhere safe, somewhere balanced. Then I bawled like a baby.
My only regret through this experience? I really could have used that beer.
Filed under: Life Lessons
