It has been said that time heals all wounds. The truth is that time does not heal anything. It merely passes. It is what we do during the passing of time that helps or hinders the healing process. – Jay Marshall
It was four weeks ago that I embarked on a journey that would lead me through a challenging hospital ordeal and ultimately to recovery. Despite the delays and the initial hiccups, my successful excision surgery marked a significant milestone in my battle against endometriosis.
I spent three nights at the hospital and was discharged on the fourth day. While most of my days were a blur, with me drifting in and out of sleep, one thing meant the world to me - the presence of my mother and husband. Their unwavering support and constant company during visiting hours provided me with both comfort and solace. There was, however, one visitor I dearly missed - my beloved fur-baby, Chico.
The day of discharge brought immense joy. I was eager to return to the comfort of my own bed, reunite with Chico, and spend quality time with my mum and husband during my recovery. But there was one thing I found myself yearning for during those early days of recovery - the mechanical hospital bed. That contraption is a true marvel, providing much-needed assistance during those initial stages of healing.
The first two weeks of post-op recovery were undoubtedly the most challenging. Pain, discomfort, and exhaustion were constant companions. My mother's presence was a game-changer. Her hearty meals, meticulous care, and our morning ritual of watching some of her favourite TV soap operas together while eating my breakfast brought a sense of normalcy and warmth to those tough days. Her support also allowed my husband to focus on work, knowing that I was in capable hands.
The turning point in my recovery came at the one-week mark when I had my post-op appointment with my doctor. While the surgery had been successful in removing all visible endometriosis, it revealed the extent of the battle within me. Every pelvic organ was infiltrated by endo, and my kidneys were under serious threat of failure due to endometriosis creeping onto them. The state of my intestines was nothing short of horrific. This left me in tears as I could finally see and understand why I was experiencing such debilitating pain. My pain was validated through the pictures and video footage of the procedure, as well as everything that the doctor explained to us.
The news was sobering, but my spirits were lifted by the immense love and support I received from family, close friends, colleagues, and even newfound friends from my endometriosis community. Phone calls, messages, cards, flowers, meals, and other thoughtful gifts poured in, enveloping me in a cocoon of care. These gestures not only made recovery easier but also reminded me of the incredible support network I have.
The latter half of the first week and the entire second week of recovery were no walk in the park. Unforeseen coughing fits and random sneezes became my unwelcome companions during this time. Having spent five to six hours in theatre, I blame the cold environment and anaesthesia for the cough. An irritating cough and some random sneezes are said to be a normal after effect of being in surgery for a long time.
Let me tell you, there's nothing worse than coughing or sneezing after surgery. It feels like your incisions and insides are on the brink of bursting, causing excruciating pain. It was during these challenging moments that my husband's homemade ginger, garlic, and lemon concoction came to the rescue. At some point, it seemed like the cough syrup I was taking was merely a joke, utterly ineffective in comparison to this magical elixir that helped soothe my discomfort and speed up my recovery.
This laparoscopy has left me with four new scars, each marking the spot where an incision was made. I hope I'll grow to be comfortable with wearing a bikini. I have two new ones that I recently purchased for our upcoming holiday. Unlike my previous surgeries, this time my belly button wasn't used as an entry point, which has meant four new additions to my collection of scars. I won't deny that my recovery has been a rollercoaster. It's been a mix of good, easy days, and some tough, uncomfortable, and pain-filled ones. On those challenging days, I experienced random electric shock-like pangs in my insides and around my incisions. This unpredictable journey reaffirmed the value of the recommended four-week recovery period.
Saying goodbye to my mum was undoubtedly one of the most emotional moments of my recovery journey. The time she spent with me felt like it passed in the blink of an eye. I cherished every moment we had together. As per our special ritual, which began after my first laparoscopy, we went out for a coffee and muffin (sometimes, it's turned into a light lunch) on her last Friday with us before her departure the following day. Even though she had returned home, her motherly instincts knew no distance. She continued to check up on me daily, providing care from afar. My husband, ever protective, jokingly threatened to report me to my mum when I struggled to finish my meals without her loving presence around.
Now, as my medical leave comes to an end, I find myself back at work. However, staying up all day and working a full schedule remains challenging. Fatigue still lingers, exacerbated by the medications I'm taking. Fortunately, my manager, team, and employer have shown great understanding, allowing me to ease back into work without overwhelming pressure.
As I navigate the delicate path of recovery, I've come to terms with the need for patience. General recovery is estimated to take six to eight weeks, with a full recovery requiring four to six months. This wisdom comes not only from my doctor but also from fellow endo warriors who have tread a similar path. I've decided to be kind to myself, acknowledging that true healing takes time.
I'll be focusing on rest, gradually increasing my daily walks around our complex with Chico, journaling, reading, and catching up on TV shows. I also intend on starting with some light yoga and pilates next week, all from the comfort of my home. My goal is a full and wonderful recovery, and I'm choosing to believe that it's within my reach.
So, this is where I am, four weeks after my successful excision surgery. A challenging journey, marked by moments of triumph, immense support, and a steely determination to overcome.
To all the courageous warriors awaiting their surgery and those on the path to recovery, I send my warmest wishes. May your upcoming procedure be smooth and devoid of any unexpected drama. May your finances be supported by both your loved ones and your insurance providers. In the days of healing ahead, may you find the patience and inner strength to overcome each obstacle. Remember, you are never alone on this journey. Reach out, lean on your support system, and know that your fellow warriors stand with you. Wishing you strength, resilience, and a speedy recovery. You've got this! 💛💛
Signed
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