During my regular walks in the stroke unit, I was often confronted with my new limitations. For example, I became aware that I see very little with the left side of both eyes. To compensate, I was taught to systematically scan the space, and to always pay more attention to what was on the left, as that’s where I miss things most often. I still use these strategies every day. They’ve become a part of me, although I often still forget to look to the left first!
UZ Gasthuisberg, March 2017
Left and right, they always confused me. But now…!
Together, we set off down the corridor.
“Take the next left,” you say –
then,”No… I meant the other left…”
Left and right,
right and left,
they’re not what they used to be.
Left is hard now. Very hard.
And, apparently, I shouldn’t worry too much about the right. As if that were possible.
“Look left” you tell me, “always look left, and you will be fine.”
From nowhere, the nursing trolley looms into view. On the left, of course. And, before I realize it, my hand hits it.
My left hand.
Left and right,
right and left,
They’re not what they used to be.
For me at least.
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