The Familiar Stranger
As I was walking to
work this morning, I had the onset of stomach cramps, the abdominal pain I have
written about often, which I have experienced since childhood. I don't know what
brings it on, but if I remember correctly, I last had this discomfort 14 months
ago.
It is different from
what you suffer with food poisoning; after emesis and bowel movement, you are
usually alright. The other situation comes after a hot shower; lying on my
belly cushioned with a soft pillow makes things subside.
Memory and
Recognition
This is memory pain, like
a visitor you cannot bar from coming round to your place, it comes with a keen recognition,
and the way it begins to tire you out is remarkable. For comfort, I take highly
sweetened milky tea. It eases but rarely cures; however, some bed rest helps.
Yet, there is another
concern. My tolerance of pain is high. I would endure discomfort for longer
than is necessary as I attempt to put the issue out of my mind, even when it
is becoming unbearable.
Perspective Through
Experience
My reflexes have been
schooled by cancer pain; any other kind of pain seems almost insignificant by
comparison. I would rarely take analgesics because the pain is not deemed that
serious.
Though pain is your
body telling you something is wrong that needs addressing, I reckon I can bear
it and manage. Do not think I treat the endurance of pain as a sign of
machismo; it is more a matter of perspective derived from lived experiences.
Dignity and Humility
Eventually, after
completing a change request in the office, I decided to leave for home. Walking
back, I banished thoughts and images of me just falling in the middle of the
street, writhing in pain. Could one be too dignified for such a humbling by
sudden incapacity?
I am grateful for one
last thing: regardless of the pain I am suffering, I have never lost my sense
of humour or my ability to write about what I am going through.
For now, Akin is
indisposed and taking a bed rest, looking towards a speedy recovery with a
prompt return to verve and vigour.
Pain through the
times
Blog - I
remember this tummy ache (October 2007)
Blog - Take away the pain
(September 2009)
Blog - Knowing
pain is personal (August 2021)
Blog - The pain is
a long story (September 2023)
Blog - That
unwelcome discomfort from youth came visiting today (November 2024)