A PIG-HEADED PERSON

I’m a pig-headed person and sometimes I become aware of it.

The first time I was told about surgery, I refused to face reality and thought there would be a miracle cure for me. However, none of the treatments worked. I came to believe I had to live my life and control my disease.

During the summer, I wanted to go on a trip to Old Orchard Beach, like I had done for the past few years. My family and my boyfriend asked me if I was sure I wanted to go, but I was stubborn and decided I wanted to go. 

I had a great time because I was with the people I love the most and I could count on their support, as always. I honestly don’t believe they wanted to go to the beach, but they did it for me and it made me happy.

I decided to go but in hindsight I know it wasn’t the best of ideas. I didn’t have enough strength to go shopping, I had to take naps during the day because I was exhausted, and I made people drive dangerously because they had to find the nearest washroom when I said I had to go.

After our shortened trip, I was about to start my first university semester. I’ve always taken my studies very seriously and not starting in September was out of the question. I thought I could do it and I wanted to make sure I maintained the same pace as my peers.

I then had an honest discussion with my boyfriend. I needed him to be direct, because I was so stubborn. He was right. I was in no shape to go to university… I wouldn’t even have been able to drive to Sherbrooke by myself. I needed to focus on my health right now. Contrary to university, this was impossible to postpone.

After this, I had plenty of time to think and take time for myself. I had to delay my entrance to university and I had to leave my summer job early. Even trivial activities were impossible for me to do. As soon as I stepped into the hospital, doctors told me about surgery. I had already thought about it and was ready. I knew this was for the best, and it would change everything.

I was right. Everything changed for the better. I started university the semester after, as was planned. I could do all the activities I wanted and I could work again without being stressed.

I am now an ostomate, I feel great, and I don’t feel that way because I’m being stubborn. I know it, I went through it and no one will be able to change my mind.

Andréanne

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