03/13/2024
A little over a month ago, I was ready to share my excitement about finally being done with a year and a half-long struggle with a herniated disc that made even a light jog almost unbearable. My back surgery was scheduled for January 19, 2024, and I was filled with hope for a pain-free future. However, life had other plans, and I was soon to face unexpected challenges.
The back surgery initially seemed successful, bringing significant relief from my back pain the very next morning. But by the afternoon of January 20, a new ordeal began. I experienced severe stomach bloating and digestive issues that rapidly escalated into unbearable pain, accompanied by chills—a clear sign that something was seriously wrong. I asked my parents to take me to the emergency room, where we discovered I had perforations in my large intestine. Faced with the choice of emergency surgery or a wait-and-see approach with antibiotics, I initially chose the latter, hoping to avoid another operation.
Unfortunately, 24 hours later, with no improvement and escalating pain, surgery became inevitable. The procedure was extensive, removing 18cm of my large intestine, removal of my appendix and cleaning out a significant infection. I woke up with an ostomy bag, a nasogastric tube, and a catheter, marked by a prominent scar from my mid stomach to my belly button. My hospital stay extended from January 20 to January 30, a period of intense recovery.
Amidst this personal health crisis, tragedy struck on the night of January 20. While in the ER, a call from my little brother brought the heart-wrenching news that a fire had claimed our small cabin and my two cats, Lulu and Pumbaa. The loss was painful, although I couldn't express anything due to the large amount of abdominal pressure and inability to cough or breathe well.
Now, back home, I'm navigating recovery with not just physical scars but a heavy heart. Yet, I refuse to succumb to despair. The path ahead includes the possibility of a "take-down surgery" to reverse the ostomy, an option I'm fortunate to have. While I'll choose a time to properly mourn my losses, dwelling on the past isn't my way forward. Instead, I'm focusing on recovery and pursuing my goals with even more determination.
I believe in demonstrating what's possible through resilience and tenacity. This experience has tested my character, defined not by circumstances but by the mental and moral qualities we bring to bear in facing life's challenges.
So, what's next? Moving forward, with gratitude for the chance to heal and grow, and a resolve to never quit.
