A few weeks ago, I spent a few days in the hospital.
It started off innocently as a trip to the doctor after a lengthy bout with stomach issues.
It ended with the Doctor telling me to run, not walk, to the ER.
After the results of CT scans, x-rays, and lots of blood tests, the result was official, my potassium was dangerously low, and I was to report directly to the hospital, without collecting $200, stat.
What I heard was, go home, pack like you're going on holiday, and check your Amazon deliveries.
So I did just that.
Packed a cute headband, eye mask, crafts, magazines, snacks, and some other stuff.
In my mind, I had just been told I had won a vacation .
This was going to be the spa experience I didn't cash in, last Christmas.
Upon arrival at the hospital, I sat in a crowded waiting room.
Next thing you know I get called, and find myself in a room in the ER.
It was there, I received more scans, x-rays and stabs.
I found myself wondering, do I even have blood left?
Then they hooked up my IV.
Apparently potassium and gasoline have the same qualities.
And while I have never intravenously hooked myself up to a gas pump, I can say, that is how I imagine it would feel.
So that's the thing about potassium.
Too little can kill you, and coincidentally, so can administering it too quickly.
All those cute crafts and toiletries were out the window as I found myself crying non stop at the pain and uncomfort of the whole experience.
I had to keep reminding myself, we are never to old to learn, even if the lessons are shitty.
And that I need my kids, and they need me,
So for a few days I sat in the hospital bed while they painfully administered bag after bag of potassium.
And then it hit me.
No one outside of my household knew I was sick, and moreover hospitalized.
The only person I speak to regularly is my therapist, which is pretty sad to be honest.
And then I started to think, God forbid something more serious were to happen, who would take care of my kids, me?
So not only was I being given potassium, I was served a huge helping of humble pie.
Life is short.
Make it count.
Reach out to those you love, to remind them.
And don't forget to eat your spinach.
Xoxo,
C.
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