One month ago, my husband, Michael, was on his way to work when he was in a terrible car accident. This accident left him with a broken back and a four-day hospital stay. Even though he is doing much better now, he still has a long way to go before being back to normal.

Through this unexpected life twist, we have learned some valuable life lessons that I would like to share with you.

1. Accept help when you need it. For some people it is hard to accept help, but in a time like this, help is exactly what you need. Whether its people bringing you food or supplies, letting someone relieve you have your night duty, or staying with family to help you out, accepting help from friends and family is very crucial.
2. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. No mater what your unexpected situation is, never be afraid to ask for help. People are wanting to help but they may not know what they can do.
   
3. Take time for yourself. In the mist of all the chaos surrounding you, having some “me-time” is very important. Taking a hot bath or shower or even having lunch by yourself, can be crucial to make it through this time.
4. Rest when you can. During hospital stays or times of stress, it can be very hard to get some rest at night. BUT find time for you to rest., even if it is during the day or having someone relieve you of your night duty so you can sleep, do it. Rest is important for you to be the best caregiver or best you, you can be in any situation.
5. Just breathe. Setting aside time to breathe or meditate will be good for your mind, body, and soul. As quickly as the bad times came, they will leave again. This too shall pass, and the good days are on the horizon.

Life throws some curve balls our way from time to time and it is up to us how we handle these situations. As wise monkey once said, “…You can either run from it or learn from it.” As I said earlier, we have a long way to go to being back to normal. Living at home again has been a struggle, but I know Michael and I need help right now. We are taking life one day at a time right now but we hope to be home and in our regular routine in no time.