After much thought, I have a big announcement: We’re moving

My husband and I figured out a while ago that we can’t live in New York City forever. As much as I adore this city, my illness and disability make it impossible for me to take the subway, which is a major travel limitation. On top of that, the city is expensive. Meanwhile, I work from home, which means I spend most of my time in my small apartment. And since my husband works late hours, I’m alone much of the time, which has been getting to me.

Plus, we hope to have children soon, which to us doesn’t fit with city living. So while I love Broadway shows and amazing museums, my husband and I both need a change. We just can’t continue at the pace we’re going.

Originally, we wanted to move to upstate New York, but that didn’t work out. It’s similarly expensive and still would’ve been hard for me to get around in my wheelchair. So we weren’t sure what to do.

Because I have Cushing’s disease, we can’t just move to the location we like best. We have to consider many other factors, so we sat down and discussed what was important for us. From that discussion, we made the following list:

1. Affordability
2. Space
3. Proximity to family
4. Accessibility
5. Good healthcare

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The big change

We considered several places, but eventually decided on Chelsea, Michigan, near where my brother and his wife live. The schools are great, the healthcare in nearby Ann Arbor is excellent, our area is walkable (and wheel-able!), and it has tons of parks. We’re even buying a house with a bedroom on the first floor, a yard, and a cute porch. I’d be able to move around easily, avoid stairs (which can be my kryptonite), and create a home.

I’m both terrified and excited. This move is huge, but leaving my support system is scary. I’ll miss a lot about New York, and boy, am I already feeling nostalgic! I’ve been eating pizza nonstop and spending as much time with my friends and family as I can.

Changing doctors is another difficulty, especially because I’ve worked so hard to find the ones I have. I’ll keep my endocrinologist, but I’m not sure if I can keep my primary physician. I’ll also need a local fertility doctor and a gynecologist. That means explaining my illness again.

I’m also worried about adding to my support system. It’s nerve-racking to wonder when I’ll get around to talking about my mobility aids and illness with new neighbors, and whether I’ll make friends who’ll understand my limitations. Luckily, my brother is there, which is a great start.

At the same time, my husband and I are both ready. We’re excited about the stability it’ll bring, as well as its advantages when raising a child. Hopefully, all will be smooth sailing. I can’t wait to sit in my yard and garden, explore areas easily, and have more room to breathe.

I’m slowly packing a box a day while we make calls to finalize the purchase of our home. It’s a stressful month, but — fingers crossed — it’ll be the right choice for our family.

You can also follow my journey on TikTok and YouTube.

Note: Cushing’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cushing’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Cushing’s.