Today I had a small surgery done and I thought I was recovering nicely until about 6:00 tonight when I noticed that the incision was bleeding. I am not an alarmist but I was sort of concerned that I might have popped a stitch. I called Health Links and spoke to an incredibly helpful nurse who gave me some tips on what to do. None of these things the doctor had mentioned. I believe I am a pretty good advocate about my health after all these years of dealing with specialists but I still mess up. I believe them when I should not and I do not always know what questions I should ask.  I was given no other directive except that I could carry on with my daily routine. 

Clearly, that was not the case. I did not carry on with my daily routine because I suspected I would pop a stitch. Even taking this extra precaution I found myself needing to take care of myself. It triggered in me my frustration with the overworked medical profession who do not always understand the patient’s needs. Now late at night I sit with an ice pack on the incision, wondering if I had done this several hours ago if I would be a happier patient.

My family has not had the best luck with doctors. My father, for example, is the recipient of 6 hip replacements. No, he does not have six hips; he is not part octopus. He received less than good care a number of times which resulted in redoing the original work. My own health journey has been less than stellar but I am persistent in getting good care. I could be embittered and cynical but I try to think of it all as water under the bridge and then move on.  The crux for me is that one little setback cannot keep me down. I choose to believe that all shall be well and that I will be given all that I need for the journey. My father is the perfect role model in many ways, Like a cat with nine lives who has used up eleven of them, he just keeps going despite it all. He amazes me.

When you cross a bridge, look a the water that flows under it and know that there is a powerful force that won’t be held back.

Peace,

Suzanne