One of the things doctors have always warned me to be mindful off is the impact of stress on my body and my health. People with PTSD are far more likely to suffer muscular-skeletal disorders, have compromised immune systems and suffer from serious cardiac ailments.

My health was not much of an issue for me before. Yes, I have chronic back problems and use a home traction unit to help reduce the painful contractions in my neck and back. Yes, I have mild COPD from smoking and hoped to stop in the very near future. (My grandson is the motivation for wanting to quit smoking. I don't want him to associate the smell of cigarette smoke with his grandmother.)

Since my son's death, however, I am much more cognizant of the impact of stress on my body. I now have frequent heart palpitations and my face has aged ten years in two weeks. I am amazed at the difference in my appearance. At first I thought it was just the "call me Bob" haircut, but a friend was actually shocked when she saw me for the first time in four weeks.

Well, it is time to start doing more to offset the impact of the recent stress in my life. I need to exercise more. Exercise helps rebuild muscles, both the cardiac and the skeletal ones. It also helps to discharge the stress hormones coursing rampantly through my body. Quitting smoking is stressful too, and I don't need added stress right now. Maybe after a few months of walking and exercises I will be better prepared to take on that demon. I need to do this. I want to see my grandchildren grow up.