Journal vague_ascetic's Journal: What A Year 1
This year has come and is almost gone. I was unable to complete any of my goals for the year. Something unexpected came up, and yes, it was significant enough to throw me off course. I started this year with about 50k in the bank. I am effectively broke now.
Last January, my lower back started hurting. Late in January, the pain escalated for several days, and was so extreme, that I could only lie in bed. Over the next many months, this was repeated multiple times, yet I did not seek medical help, and instead kept telling myself that it would get better, and all would be fine. Comme the end of August and my condition had deteriorated to the point that I was unable to even get out of bed and go to the bathroom.
It turns out that I have contracted Multiple Myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells. It caused at least three separate lumbar vertebra fractures. I also managed to fracture my ribs before I went into the hospital. I was very close to dying. I have now spent 80 days straight in the hospital, and presently, it looks like I'll be discharged next Tuesday. I am ready to go home. This is the reason I've been a stranger round these here parts for a long spell now.
There is no cure for Multiple Myeloma, but it can be pushed into remission for a very long time. I am presently receiving chemotherapy, and have been exercising as hard as my body allows. The pain has at times been overwhelming. I am able to walk short distances using a walker, but must face the reality of needing a wheelchair for any significant distances for the foreseeable future. That's ok, at least I'm still kicking.
This is why I have been scarce around Slashdot, and why this year seems like it has simply gone up in smoke.
It's not much (Score:1)
But good luck to you.