Dr Kelly Fleming

Over the past 5 months, my life has changed a lot.

My service dog passed away in November 2023 and all my energy that went to keeping up with him, taking care of him when he became ill, etc, has gone.

I’ve also been dealing with health issues and an upcoming major surgery.

For the first time in over 25 years, I don’t have anyone who needs me to take care of them.

So I’ve learnt to take chill days during  the week. Sometimes they are pj days, other times simply watching Grey’s Anatomy or some other program.

Other days I spend time learning French and Italian or engrossed in my Logos program studying religion.

And on other days I spend time playing Age of Empires and getting rid of anxiety and the cares of the world.

My chill days will end after I have my surgery. Then I will also be getting my successor service dog and my life will become full and hectic again.

I’ve learnt a lot about taking time just to do “nothing”. As I said for over 25 years I’ve always had someone else to take care of. Someone else who was my priority. Now I am my priority. To stay healthy and strong enough to get through my surgery and recovery.

I do so much look forward to getting my successor dog. I look forward to spending time with my grandchildren and falling into bed exhausted after a busy day.