Write-A-Letter Saturday (Post 3/Post 2)

 

Dear B,

I think I know what you're going through, my health has been deteriorating for the last few weeks. Severe aches course through my body, my muscles feel worn out, and I feel like I have lost the ability to perform even the effortless task of walking. My bones felt like they are made of dust.

Only last week I had fractured my right knee, and now I am recovering in the hospital. My legs don't feel strong enough to carry my weight and my entire body feels frail. The doctor has diagnosed me with Osteomalacia - a condition where your bones become soft and fragile - the same condition as you.

My thoughts are running wild- all the activities I had planned for this summer with my family are rendered futile. I think of my youthful kids so full of enthusiasm, and I wonder how the news will affect them. I barely get any time to see them, I am working from my room, where the first rays of the sun permeate through to the eventide, with the shadows. I leave before my children wake up and come back when they are about to go to bed.

This summer break was the only retreat I had, and it has been ruined. The doctors have already informed me of my decaying bone density and softening bones, they have tried their best to reassure me of my health by prescribing me Vitamin D supplements and a mandatory hour in the sun for at least a month. But the pain will only subside in several months, and outdoor activities remain a distant longing for now. I am hopeful of recovery but am afraid to be let down. This disease has not only affected me but also my loved ones adversely.

I shall write again tomorrow with an update on my newly diagnosed condition with hopefully more propitious news. Also, hoping that you recover from this impactful disease while trying not to dwell on the ramifications of Osteomalacia.

Until next time,

S

(By Shhreya Anand, Volunteer, Editorial Dept. Advanced Healthcare Foundation)