HOW ILLNESS UNFOLDS THE REAL ME
By Beulah Adaugo Igboecheonwu, Awka
Man never realizes all he is until certain events of life reveal the stuff he is made of. Such developments could be positive or negative but they leave on their trail certain lessons which form life experiences thereafter. I have thought that I have a good knowledge of myself until my recent hospitalization which unfolded the hidden strength in me. My recent was a sore test of my strength and resilience.
Despite the challenges I faced, I still managed to maintain an optimistic outlook and was a source of inspiration to many other co-patients around me. I have been admitted on the 24 of June at Bethel’s Hospital and Laboratory following a severe illness that required immediate medical attention. It was such a serious ailment which forced me back from school with the aid of mother and aunty. Dedicated healthcare professionals at the hospital worked tirelessly to provide me with the necessary care and support during my stay.
I was taken through a series of medical procedures and treatments, during which I displayed unwavering resolve to come back to sound health. I drew strength from a patient I met at the hospital. His case strengthened the resolve in me to tirelessly pursue my life goal, thanking God for everything including the littlest things in my life.
My remarkable attitude towards the sickness drew commendation from the physician attending to me, Dr. Dan Ingbian who remarked. “Beulah’s tenacity and optimism were truly uplifting. Despite the difficulties she faced, she remained positive and maintained a supportive demeanor towards others. It’s a testament to her strength and character.”
Indeed, the sickness revealed another side of me which I often overlook. While still battling with my own medical challenge, I was to the amazement of my mom and aunt providing succor to other patients through words of encouragement.
My stay at the hospital will remain memorable in my heart. I finally returned with a grateful heart to God and the team of medical professionals who attended to me. I remember sharing with my friend on my return that “the doctors, nurses, and all the hospital staff have been incredible. Their dedication and kindness have made a world of difference. I can’t thank them enough for the care they gave me.”
There is nothing like having a crowd of encouragers around you on your sick bed. My family and friends remained a constant source of strength with their uncommon demonstration of love and support throughout my hospital journey. They rejoiced with me during every small victory and provided emotional support during those most challenging days.
The period of hospitalization is over and I optimistically look forward to steady recovery as I happily reunite with all my loved ones. I have a renewed hope in the grace of God to face my studies head-on without any hitches again. I am again optimistic that God will see me through as the journey of life continues in the phase of academic pursuit.
