I am often asked about medical healthcare access in Ecuador. This query frequently comes, oddly enough, on the heels of my sharing with others the enjoyment of strolling Ecuador’s isolated beaches or surfing in her secluded, South American warm waters. Far too few inquire about what truly excites me – our Canoa condo at Playa del Sol, the quality of surf, beachcombing, the year-round warm weather, the low cost of living or the thrill of learning about a new, colorful and diverse culture.
My enthusiasm is often momentarily defused by this concern for my health and welfare, but I nonetheless drudge up a pat response and explain that there is, in metropolitan areas such as Quito or Cuenca, world class healthcare at extraordinarily low prices. However, in fairness, I go on to explain that where Jan and I live, if I were to have a sudden heart attack or stroke while in the barrel of a wave, (and if I ever caught that elusive barrel I probably would), the most likely result would be both unpleasant and permanent.
Whether intended or not, often the listeners’ eyes betray their dismay or even that of slight disapproval. Few, whether out of kindness or discomfort, come right out and state that they think I’m foolish. Typically, their concerns are neatly tucked within the blank spaces between the words of their follow-up questions. And, admittedly, those subsequent and legitimate inquiries that have come (and undoubtedly will again come my way) give me pause. You know – the “What if’s…..” in life.
I have trouble coming up with a valid justification as to why I choose to take the risk of possibly living a shorter, more adventurous life in trade for a safer, “more responsible” life. Then one day, while back in the states, I was listening to my son and daughter-in-law discuss the new rules for playing ball with their sweet but very energetic dog. Now, this is no ordinary boxer/pit bull mix. He is our only grand-dog which makes his place in our family unit very special. Sadly, “Ryan” has been diagnosed with a bad ticker and a shortened lifespan. The veterinarian has warned that vigorous play with Ryan runs the risk of having him collapse and die. Unfortunately though, it is clear that Ryan still has the will and desire to race through the sagebrush attacking a thrown ball even though he no longer has the support of a healthy heart.
Ryan is clearly loved by his mom and dad, and, like many good parents, they want to protect Ryan and keep him alive as long as possible. So it is understandable that they have chosen to restrict all strenuous activities even though this must leave Ryan, who is blissfully unaware of his precarious condition, unquestionably confused.
I have no quarrel with their decision. It is a wise and loving one, and yet their situation brings me back to the underlying choices behind the questions posed to me about my life in Ecuador. Ryan’s medical issues have helped me to think through and solidify an internal and extremely personal conclusion for myself and one I need my loved ones to understand. Simply put, it is this:
Pitch the ball as hard and fast as you can and let me chase it to the end!
earlybirdinecuador 