Independence is a word we can easily take for granted. Those of us with it don't give it a second thought. Indeed, why should we? Since we could walk, we've come to expect it as our natural right.

It is only when it is taken away from us that we understand its worth. Self reliance is a part of who we are. Independence is central to the formation of our self image - and whether we hold ourselves in a positive or negative light. It's easy to understand why those with very little control over their personal environment can often be anxious, angry, depressed, or worse.

And it seems there is nothing more disempowering than having to rely on others when it comes to health. This is one area of our lives over which we can ill afford to be giving control to others - and yet it happens on a daily basis.

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