What do you mean no?
Those of you who know me in the real world (as opposed to the virtual one) will know that I love science fiction, fantasy and horror. But nothing holds my attention more than tales of survival in a post apocalyptic world. It doesn't have to be zombies mind; natural disasters, epidemics and alien invasions all float by boat too.
But what is it that captures my imagination?
Is it the resilience of human nature in difficult and life threatening situations?
Could it be the will to survive and carry on inspite of overwhelming odds?
Or how people with completely different backgrounds band together?
I'm sure some smarty arse psychologist or counsellor would point out the links to what we have been through as a family but quite frankly what I enjoy is the escapism. It's probably the same reason why I *cough* occasionally watch Geordie Shore. Whether or not the escapism is Michonne and Rick kicking zombie butt ( I love me a sword wielding badass), or the total end of the world stress and horror of not having your nails and tan done, and seeing someone tash on with the person you fancy. Both scenarios are so removed from everyday life that it's... well it's bloody great.
I don't enjoy hospital dramas anymore. I've spent too long living in one. Well actually I still love Grey's Anatomy, but that's because I have an almost unhealthy interest in the lives of those working at Seattle Grace. When you think about it there are similarities to apocalyptic situations - the ferry sinking, explosions, floods, fires, buildings collapsing, and of course the plane crash and subsequent fight for survival. I've still not got over the death of Mc Steamy if I'm honest. Sob.
But back to my original point. Zombie apocalypse. Every time it looks like Nate needs less kit or meds my inner "prepper" thinks "right that's less to carry, find, or bash zombies out of the way to get at". We would move faster without a ventilator, suction, and oxygen, and how the hell would I charge them?
There's a reason I haven't seen anyone with a physical disability in "The Walking Dead" ( apart from people who have chopped off a limb to prevent zombie infection spreading of course) and it's not because they aren't an inclusive show
( which they strike me as), it's because, let's face it, the wheelchair users have probably been eaten.
This, clearly, is problematic.
I would love so much if Nate could manage to walk at some point. Many children with his syndrome do and although he seems to be severely affected by ATR-X I won't give up hope. Also it would be highly beneficial in any forthcoming "escaping from zombies" scenario. Nate could probably give them a challenge in the biting stakes anyway.
So what do we ( as in Nate) need to aim for?
-less meds ( would need scavenging)
- less battery ran equipment to charge ( would need to find some sort of safe community with renewable energy source)
-less oxygen dependancy ( although cylinders could possibly be used as a weapon)
and oh crap I forgot about blending food! What about my vitamix?
As you can see it's enough to keep anyone up at night.
There are three dreams I've had that stayed with me and scarred me. Just three. I don't dream very often (that I remember) which I conclude is due to my lack of sleep, and infrequency of deep sleep. These dreams left me shaking and sobbing and I think about them often. These are: the one where Nate walks and runs about happily and then I wake up, the one where he says he loves me, and the one where I'm stood holding him in the middle of floods after storms ( and I think a volcanic eruption) have ended with no way of getting him to safety. I can still feel that clench in my stomach of helplessness.
The need to protect your child is a strong one. There's nothing quite like it in this world. It gives you the energy to fight on and always try to make the right choices. The right decisions for them. Which are not always the easiest for you.
We all wish for our childrens lives to be easier in terms of equipment and medicines, not because using these things bother us ( err anymore) but for their health and survival. We want to take away their pain. I want Nate upright and mobile, not because lack of disabled access to places boils my piss, or I can't "deal" with the idea of him using a wheelchair, but for his circulation, muscle strength, wellbeing and happiness.
Ability to outrun zombies is an added bonus.
Yes I have had similar thoughts too, I wonder why :) Here's hoping that Nate does begin walking one day xx
ReplyDeleteIt's pretty doubtful but you never know .. Xx
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