Navigating Health Challenges with Determination and Positivity

This week has been a rollercoaster for me. Battling Behçet's disease can be a constant uphill struggle, and life always seems to throw these flare-ups at the worst possible moments. But even during tough times like now, I’m finding little victories, and I want to share my journey.

Hospitalization and Ongoing Struggles:
I've been in the hospital for four days now, unable to eat, drink, or talk due to Behçet's disease. It became so severe that I had to undergo another endoscopic procedure (EGD). Behçet's has attacked my esophagus again, and it has brought back painful tongue sores and thrush. I started antifungal medication, which is slowly helping me recover. It’s been frustrating knowing that this one issue is holding me back from going home, especially with so many important things coming up—like my college classes starting in 11 days and a big interview on Monday.

The Pain in My Hands:
Along with everything else, my hands have been a major source of frustration lately. They’re covered in painful sores due to inflammation from Behçet's, making me feel almost useless at times. It’s slowly getting better, but they still look horrible, and it makes simple tasks difficult. I hate when this disease affects my hands because it limits what I can do, adding to the frustration of an already challenging situation.

A Hospital Upgrade and More Progress:
Today, Friday the 16th, I’m still in the hospital, but I’ve been upgraded to a new floor and room, which is quite the step up! My new room even has its own bathroom with a shower—seriously, I’ve never seen a hospital room with a shower before! There’s also a big screen TV, and for the first time since being here, I’ve got a window with sunlight streaming in. I can actually feel the sun on me, which is such a mood booster.

I’m slowly getting back to eating too, which is another win. Yesterday, I managed to eat a cheeseburger (no bread yet, but progress is progress!). Today, I enjoyed smoked brisket and creamy mashed potatoes. I’m not quite 100% yet, but I’m able to eat with some tolerance, and my tongue is finally improving thanks to the antifungal meds they’ve been giving me through the IV.

I just talked with the doctor, and they’re suggesting I stay one more day since I’m back to eating now. It’s a relief knowing that I’m almost out of here, and I’ll soon be back home where I can fully recover.

Getting Better Just in Time:
It’s all coming together just in time for my doctor's appointment, my interview, and the start of my classes. Whew! I’ve never been so happy. Though my hands will take much longer to heal, I can handle that. What I can’t handle is the mouth stuff—so I’m really glad that part is finally improving.

Small Wins Make a Big Difference:
But it’s not all bad news! After all the struggles with eating, these small wins feel like major victories. I’m getting back on track, and these steps forward are keeping me optimistic for what’s next.

Preparing for What's Next:
Even though I’m still in the hospital, my mind is on the future. My goal is to recover as quickly as possible so I can ace this upcoming interview for the EOF program, which would be a game-changer for me—it would cover my college tuition. I’m feeling more optimistic now that I’ve been able to eat and feel better overall.

For my graphic design class, I’m fully prepared with all the tools I need: software, a drawing tablet, and my creativity. I just need my health to cooperate so I can take full advantage of this opportunity and start my semester strong.

Gratitude and Reflection:
One thing I’ve learned from these experiences is to never take for granted the ability to eat, drink, or talk. Some people can’t do these things at all or never will, and I’m thankful that I only have to deal with this for two weeks at a time—though even that feels like too much sometimes. These simple, everyday abilities mean the world when you don’t have them, even if just for a little while.

Positivity in the Face of Adversity:
Even though Behçet's often strikes at the most inconvenient times, I refuse to let it keep me down for long. Sure, it's thrown a wrench into my plans, but I’ve learned to focus on the little wins. Whether it’s something as simple as eating a meal or getting through the day with less pain, every step forward counts.

Here’s to hoping for a smooth recovery and getting back to my life, my classes, and all the exciting things ahead.

Home Sweet Home!
I’m back home from the hospital—whoop whoop! 🙌🏾 Though I’m only 91% better, being home is such a relief. I can continue to heal in my own space, which makes all the difference. Another EGD is on the horizon, but for now, I’m just focusing on getting back to normal.

I'm eating again and taking it easy in the comfort of my room. Once I’m re-energized, I plan to treat myself to a long soak in the tub with oatmeal and bubbles. It’s the little things that help in recovery, and I’m excited to pamper myself a bit after all the stress of the last few days.