Written by: Vickie Sullivan | July 07, 2020
Surgery During a Pandemic: Lessons Learned
During the pandemic, I’ve been taking full advantage of the time by focusing on my health. A top priority for me was eye surgery. (Good news: My eye surgeries went well; I’m fine.) Here’s what I learned, though, that I’m going to use in my conversations:
• There comes a point when information doesn’t matter. I went to the hospital with eyes wide open. I researched the risks of the surgery, and I talked to others who had the procedure. I had countless reassurances that it was quick and painless. But I was still afraid as the nurses wheeled me in. More information didn’t lessen my fear. I just had to be scared and get it done. What I’ll tell folks now: The perfect time is when you feel the fear and you go forward anyway. Being ready is an emotional response.
Listen: What to Do When Logic Doesn’t Work
• Timelines don’t matter. We all think we know when something is going to happen. We pride ourselves on getting the heads-up. My body taught me that timelines for recovery after surgery are mere stories I make up. It happens when it happens. The marketplace does the same thing. What I’ll tell folks now: Keep working your plan. It’s gonna turn out fine. We just don’t know when.
You learn a lot about yourself while navigating uncharted territory. And those lessons can bring new empathy and insights to your conversations with those also on their journeys.
Now Read This:
Author : Vickie Sullivan
Published: 2020-07-07 14:21:09
Yeah, I was definitely feeling the fear. LOL You are very brave. Keep up the courage -- folks need you!
Author : Ann Fry
Published: 2020-07-07 05:24:26
Very well said my friend. I’m a fan of the book Feel the Fear and Do It Anyhow by Susan Jeffers. I am almost always afraid, but have taken many leaps of faith. Glad you are doing well.