Today’s video is a very real one, and probably one of the harder videos I’ve had to edit.

⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: This video contains footage of me aggravating an existing back problem while cleaning, along with discussion of pain, neurological warning signs and an A&E visit.

I already had problems with my back before this happened. Moving the washing machine did not cause everything I deal with, but this particular moment significantly aggravated things.

Looking back at the footage, I can also see just how stubborn — and frankly stupid — I was being. I was trying to get the house cleaned before our trip, help was technically available but busy elsewhere, and I convinced myself I could just move the washing machine a little bit more.

Famous last words.

There are points in this video where I mention symptoms that became red flags, including problems with my bladder. I did seek medical attention and went to A&E. I’m including that part because I don't want to pretend that pushing through pain is always admirable. Sometimes stopping and getting medical help is the sensible thing to do.

The cleaning still needed doing, but this is where adapting became important.

Rocky takes over the floor cleaning and does the legwork for me while I concentrate on the areas she can't reach — walls, skirting boards and moving what actually needs moving. Where possible, I get help rather than trying to prove that I can do everything myself.

My channel has never been about a perfect Instagram house or pretending health problems disappear because there is cleaning to do.

Sometimes I can do a lot.
Sometimes I adapt.
Sometimes the robot does it.
And apparently sometimes I make spectacularly stupid decisions involving washing machines. 🤦🏼‍♀️

Work smarter, not harder. Even when I occasionally forget my own bloody advice.

Thank you, as always, for watching, commenting, subscribing and supporting my channel. ❤️

☕ Buy me a coffee:
Ko-fi – StickyMess17

Patreon has more up-to-date, behind-the-scenes and chatty content. There is absolutely no obligation to join and please read the individual tier information before subscribing so you know exactly what you are choosing.

And yes — before anybody asks — the wardrobe malfunctions in this video were not deliberate. Apparently my clothing also gave up that day. 🤦🏼‍♀️😂

Please remember: this is my own experience, not medical advice. New bladder/bowel dysfunction, saddle-area numbness or rapidly worsening leg weakness alongside severe back symptoms can require urgent medical assessment.