It’s been a year since the accident. I’m rejoicing in today, because somebody once told me, when the day comes, think of it as the day you didn’t die.
It’s been a long year. I started it off with four brain surgeries. I remember waking up from one surgery and my abdomen hurt. My husband said that’s where my brain shunt drains. I remember thinking, “I have a what installed?!” Crazy. I have all my days in the hospital mixed up and have to get it in line again with P. I had bad dreams. I thought P was going into surgery too (luckily he didn’t). From time to time I ask him questions about the hospital because I get confused.
I’m grateful P’s still here with me. It’s been a long road. “Through thick and thin” takes on a different meaning when it includes endless nights in the hospital, staying up reading medical journals on hydrocephalus, shuttling between mom and baby’s room, dealing with a wife who couldn’t talk back, and nerves, leaving you awake at night. I didn’t know when he married me that it would include this. He truly is my best friend and soul mate. And by my side he’s stayed, through numerous doctor office visits, therapy sessions, surgeries, lumbar punctures and hospital stays, more than someone would expect. For the longest time the neurosurgeon and other doctors didn’t know what was going on with me, why I didn’t get better. I know it was hard on P. An idiot doesn’t have to tell me that.
My friend told me her husband left her when “thick” happened. I don’t know what I would have done, but I sure didn’t do this by myself. I consider myself very lucky to have him with me through all this. We had both moms shuttle in from another state, taking care of the baby, so it was a lot of work for them, too. My sister-in-law changed jobs and moved to our home in Texas . For someone who’s your sister-in-law, that’s love right there.
I made some unlikely friends in the hospital. For someone who recently moved from Hawaii, I had a good support system, and wasn’t left alone in the hospital. All of the sudden, a girlfriend of our friend in Hawaii came to visit, and she introduced us to other people. For someone who couldn’t speak, I made a lot of friends and nowadays keep in contact with them. They helped fill up some empty spaces in the hospital. I had visitors that I didn’t know, coming to my room to sing, give hugs, or offer some consoling words.
And my CNAs were super friendly too. They came to my room to talk when they didn’t have to. They even watched the royal wedding with me when I was watching it (for the third time) with my mom. Two of them even drove to my house after I was discharged to hang out with me and Camille.
My therapists were always upbeat and so nice. I remember when I couldn’t talk, my speech therapist at the hospital brought on a music therapist in hopes that I would sing one word in a verse. I couldn’t, but she was always upbeat and happy, despite what was going on. And when we moved back home and went to outpatient therapy, my occupational therapist was like my friend, pushing me in the pool. The pool was my favorite part of the day. My speech therapist there also never let up on me, doing really hard exercises that would tire me out, but in a good way. My physical therapists pushed me, making me go on a mini-trampoline and freaking me out on the red mat, something that hurt my knees the first time around but was okay afterward.
So for my one-year staying alive anniversary, I asked P the other day, “What’s your favorite dessert?” And he said, “Hot and sour soup.” What?!
Gross. For those who don’t know P, he doesn’t like desserts, opting for the salty items rather than the sweets. The first time I made hot and sour soup was in his apartment in Monterey, California. Okay, I thought, I’ll make it again! But I lost my Cook’s Illustrated magazine which featured the recipe. And we planned a last-minute trip so I’ll attempt to make it when we get home. As you can see, I was able to take him to an Extraordinary Desserts with some friends. Woohoo!
So, on this day, I will enjoy the little things. P and I will rejoice in the day. We’re lucky our baby is happy and healthy. We’re lucky to have each other. And we’re happy that we can spend another day together.
I couldn’t have chosen a more incredible woman to share this life with. I love you and thank you for coming back.
You’re amazing and we love you! ~ Pratt Fam
Tram, your post made me shed a few tears. You are remarkable and your hubby is too. Sending you a big hug:)
You are making me cry. Im so glad that you are here to tell this incredible story of love n survival. You are a brave and courageous woman..and youre wonderful and you would do all those things if it was someone else in your place. Love u and I hope things only get better from this day.
Sister……you are truly a miracle. You both are the definition of what a strong marriage is. I’m so happy you have each other, camille, and the rest of your lives.
Thank you for sharing the details about your journey and incredible recovery. Joe and I (and our families) are also rejoicing in the day you didn’t die
What a heartwarming story of the love between you and P and it proves that the love and support from your soul mate, families, friends, and even strangers can lend you enough strength and courage to keep fighting. Love you Tram!
I miss Extraordinary Desserts! No hot and sour soup there though!
hooray to being alive! Your story is so amazing and such an inspiration that my mom knew about it before I did and she doesn’t even know you guys.
we’re looking forward to seeing you soon!
P.S. P has great taste in dessert.
Yeah for your first “day I didn’t die” anniversary! You are amazing and I’m so proud of you! You have come so far and you’re not finished yet! Phong is an incredible man for all the love and support he gives you. Your marriage is a true definition of “in sickness and health” and “the good and the bad”. I’m so blessed that Adam has handled my cancers so well. We have some great guys in our lives.
p.s. The pool was my favorite part of the day too!
truly a reason for celebrating and appreciating all that we are blessed with and for every single day. so glad to be reading your blog again and sending happy and joyful thoughts you and your families way.
Tram, You are an amazingly strong woman. I can’t believe all you have overcome. You are truly blessed to have so much love and support from your family and friends. I’ve never met your husband but he sounds wonderful. Happy staying alive anniversary! xo
Miraculous. Happy Anniversary.
Tram, you have been an inspiration to us all ! Your incredible journey has been amazing. It is exciting to think about all the wonderful things ahead of you in your lifetime together with Phong, Camille, and all of your family and friends. Keep up your wonderful disposition, joy of life and laughter. There may be more “red mats” ahead in life, but you know that you will be able to overcome them all !!! You are awesome !!!!
Thank you everyone! Such kind words…it was a really good day today
We are all so lucky to have you and grace us with your wonderful recipes and stories! Now how do we find that recipe for hot and sour soup???
Your story is a true miracle, evidence of the power of prayer. Your courage and strength inspire me tremendously. I love you friend!
What an incredible story – I hope more people around the world read your story and are inspired just as I am now!
I knew you had the determination if given the chance!! Can’t wait to see the progress you’ve made!
Pingback: Thanksgiving Day « Nutrition to Kitchen
What an amazing story, Tram Le! An incredible journey to regain your health… you’re an inspiration. Going through the hard stuff is never easy for sure. Blessings as you continue on.
The LEARNED Preneur @ NormaDoiron.NET ╰☆╮
Pingback: Whole-wheat chocolate chip cookies « Nutrition to Kitchen