A 3:30 a.m. flare-up turns into an unexpected lesson in empathy, pain management, and the strange parallels between real-life recovery and surviving the Wasteland. Sometimes even nurses need a refresher in giving a damn.
Tag: Recovery
Shoulder to Shoulder With Mortality
Getting older means realizing death is no longer something that happens to “other people.” After surgery and reflection, I find myself thinking about mortality, regret, and the strange comfort of finally being honest about what hurts — and what doesn’t.
The Weight That Never Leaves
Even after bariatric surgery, the hardest weight to lose isn’t physical—it’s the one that lives in your head. This reflection explores the lingering scars of body image, the echoes of past criticism, and the lifelong work of learning to see yourself with kindness.
Prepping for the Knife
Facing an upcoming shoulder replacement, I reflect on my Army days, the scars—both physical and emotional—and the strange peace that comes with surviving. I may be a little battered, but I’m still here, still writing, and still grateful for the second (or third) chances.