37 days post operation. So much has happened between my scheduled TT and today. It was such a whirlwind of health issues that I’m reeling from dizziness, figuratively and literally. Until recently, I’m dealing with elevated blood pressure, difficulty in sleeping, darts of pain on my wound, discomforts on my neck, etc. One time I had chills. The recovery seems so arduous and I’m in the trenches of it. This is my Total Thyroidectomy story. Don’t worry, it’s not gory.
March 14, the day of admission
As I was preparing for the hospital, I wanted to back out, although I know I must go through with it. I was looking forward to the relief and healing the operation will (hopefully) bring. Not to mention, I have already prepared my things and confirmed with the OR. I had to steel my mind and remind myself that:
My mind is stronger than my anxiety. But, the peace of the Lord is the strongest when I pray for it.
March 15, the day of operation
Nervous anticipation for breakfast as my operation was scheduled early in the morning. We waited for the orderlies to wheel me out on a gurney. Through corridors, one of which was grass green (fake grass, I think) with big and bold fake flowers, into elevators – one had shiny, stainless steel walls that reflected the overhead pin lights in overlapping waves. Before entering the sterile area, I handed my glasses to my hubby, Rix, said our I love you’s and just inside, I waited a bit by a counter. Then, into a room with a big round light, the nurses and assistants hooked me up to monitors. My anesthesiologist told me he gave me something calming, I don’t know by what means; I didn’t see the bright lights come on or even my surgeon (saw him on the elevator, though), the last thing I heard was “shoulder roll”, then I passed out.
This day's blessings:
Waking up from the operation. Hearing babies cry in the recovery room. Reuniting with my hubby after several hours. As he pointed out, having my voice right after (some people's vocal chords are affected). Being able to do number one and number two so I wouldn't need a catheter.
March 16, the day of observation
Thankful for friends who visited in the afternoon of this day, who gave us food. My best friend also came over, but then she witnessed the effects of super low calcium levels on me. She helped me calm down and distracted me, because anxiety makes it worse. I’m grateful she was there. Now I know it’s called Hypocalcemia. I had tingling sensations on my upper body and my hands spasmed. It was excruciating! I was writhing in pain! The doctors had to administer emergency calcium replacement via the IV. A new IV line was even inserted on my left forearm because the one on the back of my right hand was hurting. This was something I never want to experience again. I was close, once, here at home, and I almost had to go to the ER. Thank God the medicine and calcium supplements worked. I also used a paper bag for breathing.
Good thing in something so scary as this
It happened while in the hospital
Symptoms my "team" shan't miss
Who cared when my health was brittle
Doctors and nurses who supported
In order for me to get sorted
And know what's to be expected
March 18, the day of homecoming
I chose the University of Santo Tomas Hospital because that’s where my latest thyroid doctor has his office, although he also holds clinics in two other hospitals, but that’s where we first contacted and visited him. And then, I decided to go with this doctor’s recommended surgeon. I am glad I did as I felt that they and the nurses rendered compassionate services. I felt well taken care of. The downside was the long waiting time upon admission and upon payment, then discharge. Though the 24/7 air-conditioned room was spacious and there’s hot water in the tap, and I could sleep all I want on an adjustable bed, still, I cannot wait to go home to my children. And our dog.
Now, I am still taking it easy, yet slowly getting back into the groove of things. Here are what I do after my thyroidectomy story, which isn’t finished yet…
- I do the chores that I can, pause and rest when I get tired.
- Religiously taking my medicine, getting some morning sunlight, light stretching and gradually stretching my limits to get back to being able.
- I keep reading the Bible, praying, doing breathing exercises so that my mind would not be troubled with anxious thoughts.
- Refuse to be uptight or worry about what I cannot control, be loosey-goosey.
It’s a relief that this ordeal is done. I don’t know if I could face another surgery. I’m still in the midst of recovery, not 100% done yet. All I can is to enjoy the quiet and good days.
Have you had a surgery? What was it and what was it like?
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