An in your face discovery

The results were depressing. Case after case of people who took months or years to regain a semblance of their former lives and some sad examples of people who became virtual long term prisoners in their homes.

In searching for case studies, I discovered what seems so obvious when you share it with others (and which as a news related professional should be so intuitive – doh!). It is this: The majority of people who post material on health-related fora do so from a less than satisfactory experience. Most of those for whom matters are plain sailing simply put the experience behind them and cruise on with other aspects of their lives. Fair enough.

My learning went a little deeper, however: If you want more optimistic stories delivered in an encouraging way, then go no further than YouTube. The chances of finding someone who has been in a very similar situation to yourself and who has taken the time to share that experience on camera seems high. There’s something about a straight to camera piece from individuals who are eager to tell their stories and literally show their wounds that is far more uplifting than reading just words.

So, while my pre-op searching ramped up my fears of a long and difficult rehabilitation to full health, the reality has been much more positive. One week on I am well on the path to full recovery including a return to work shortly.

The fabulous professionals in our great health system were the most reliable source of comment and advice given that they were able to customise that advice according to the many indicators and inputs available to them. Face-to-face still wins hands down.

Sage advice came from a nurse early on in proceedings before my final diagnosis had been received: Life post-surgery is as much, or more, about attitude as it is about dealing with the barriers that crop up.

Best wishes to all who face such challenges and happy YouTube searching.