Another procedure

So…it’s not unusual for the thread to fall out mid-treatment. Not super common but it happens. Mine decided to fall out at some stage annnnd due to the position of my fistula it was too difficult to replace in the consultation rooms. Doc decided an epidural would be wise and booked it in for the next day.

I’ve said it so many times – you just cannot predict anything on this wild ride! 

I arrived 9.30am and left at 6pm. Doc was able to do an examination at the same time and advised I am about 70% healed. He did some ‘skin welding’ as I call it – I don’t ask questions because I don’t want to know some of the medical specifics for my sanity, all I know is I smelt burning of skin. Eww. He also slightly widened the internal wound so that I would continue to drain and allow for better thread change.

I’ve developed some real deal friendships while here, and man oh man did they show their support all the live long day. From the night before the procedure it was determined that I would not be alone and I had no choice in being accompanied (adorable). I was entertained as I lay in the bed waiting for the epidural to wear off and be given the ok to leave. People came and went the whole day, it was overwhelming. Even beautiful nurse Vanitha (who held my hand throughout the procedure) got in on the action and danced. So good. This whole experience has restored my faith in humanity - the way everyone bans together to take care of each other is inspirational. 

A couple of days after the procedure is when the pain actually kicks in, and it really did! I had some rough days. Mainly due to the position of the internal wound causing pain when going to the bathroom. It’s such an awkward part of the body to have a wound as it’s never truly rested. Every single time you move you activate that area, so healing can be a process. My advice – take all the advice! Take painkillers when needed, listen to how others manage their pain and bathroom habits, learn from others and find what works for you to minimize the discomfort. 

I’m not going to lie, I was hurting big time. Even though I knew on a logical level that it was a temporary thing and I just had to ‘keep swimming’, emotionally I was a bit all over the shop. Lots of tears. Mind you half of those tears were triggered by everyone’s outpouring of kindness. People feeding me, hanging out with me while I lay down, keeping my mind occupied so I wasn’t sitting with the pain all alone. That support truly means more than words can say. Doc was exceptional throughout and not for a second did he dismiss my concerns or pain. ‘Laraflara should be laughing not crying’! The care factor for his patients is truly unique and it’s touching. I tried to ask doc if he actually comprehends or truly understands what he is doing for people, how he affects their lives. I really don’t think he does. We meet a lot of special people throughout the course of our lives, and doc is right up there. He’s such a dude.  

It's now been almost 2 weeks since the procedure and I am WAY better. I’m ready to go back to adventuring around Bangalore. Gotta savour it all cause in the blink of an eye it’s been 3.5 months and in another blink of an eye it’ll be over!







Pappa eagle and I had a stare down on my balcony. For the first time he didn't yell at me. Look at him! He's so beautiful




Baby has grown so quickly and is home alone most of the time. Big boy feathers are there...hopefully I see him take his first flight



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