My Fight with Paralysis...
This is real story on how i fought with my face paralysis 3 years back... Hope you will like it
Date - 28th December 2011 - 03 PM IST
Scene – Pune Railway Station
As always one of the most crowded and chaotic place in Pune; but you literally don’t have choice but navigate yourself with Luggage ensuring your Family is not left behind… So what I was doing here – well came to drop Sheetal (wife), Shubh (Son), Parv (well he was practically there as Sheetal was 3 month pregnant then) Neha (Sister) and Amit (Bro in law). Neha and Amit were in Pune and now going back to mandsaur and Sheetal was going to Surat to spend some quality time with her parents; not as if she don’t spend quality time with me but you know what I mean… J
Well train departed; bid adieu and being one of the professional lot – I went back to office and after some time it started… Slowly but I started feeling a minor irritation on skin below my right eye; not something which was troubling me but it made its presence felt throughout the day
Date - 28th December 2011 - 09 PM IST
Scene – Alone@Home Sweet Home
The worst moment I feel when family is away is to be in home as it’s so silent and lonely compared to lively and fun environment which we all live in… Well this little tiny irritation thing which I was now thinking as early sign of conjunctivitis (Terrible analysis!!) was still there but it has slightly increased its irritation surface as if my face was a battlefield… and i was still ignoring it that it will go away and I continued to royally ignore (I am good at ignoring I guess) it and ordered my dinner from an eatery close by as Sheetal was away L
Dinner came; took first bite and some thing was a miss; food looked good, it tasted good but something was wrong… what? Anyways took some more bites and I realized that I am not able to chew with that strength from my right side of jaw... I mean what the @#$#% - what’s wrong. Quickly checked my face in mirror and by that time all looked good. Somehow finished my dinner and went to sleep…
Date - 29th December 2011 - 03 AM IST
Scene – Alone@Home Sweet Home
Well whenever I goes to bed with a feeling that something is wrong; I never get sound sleep and today was no difference… woke up at 3 AM as irritation surface has expanded and whole right side of my face was a battlefield now… believe me not a good situation to be in specially when you are alone at home and time is 3 AM – checked myself in mirror. Now God has its own ways to send signals J - I yawned in front of mirror and realized that my right side of mouth is not opening properly... totally shocked but it was just the beginning to get shocked…
Date - 29th December 2011 - 06 AM IST
Scene – Alone@Home Sweet Home
During your school days – have you drawn a circle without compass? J you managed to draw a circle but its kinda twisted and not a perfect round – that’s exactly how my mouth was looking when I tried opening it check it nth time in mirror… 1000 thoughts were raising through my mind? Whether I am going through a paralysis attack? Have my muscles got strained and what not… mind is a wonderful thing – no matter how much you control it wants to do Root Cause Analysis at that very moment in such scenario… well there were many possible answers and unfortunately I was not on KBC but sure was on a Hot Seat ;)
Sunrise and its early twilight always smoothen me and bring a feeling of calm and positiveness to me; on a chilly winter morning Sun was trying its best to come out of hazy and cloudy sky and gave a peek to this new look that I have dawned by now… Well time to act and I dialed my Family Doctor Mr Badhe and described him with current battleground updates going on my face and reported first casualty - my mouth; he was out of town and poor guy tried his best to reassure me that everything will be fine and I should visit another doctor immediately... Wow in 8 years this was first time my Family doc advised me to visit other doc – Competition be doomed ;) but that’s what situation demanded…
Date - 29th December 2011 - 08 AM IST
Scene – Y***** Nursing Home
You will not give a second look to this Hospital on Busy GangaDham road but at 8 AM this was my best back to get expert advice (again not on KBC). The doc finally came after keeping me waiting for 30 minutes – can’t blame him it was a chilly winter morning – he did a quick analysis and was kind of puzzled on my situation which made me more puzzled (as if I was less before); I tired helping by suggesting if its start of Paralysis and he ordered a battery of test in his in-house Pathology lab.
He asked me to wait for some time before final verdict is out and asked me to come back by 2 PM; I mean who am I - a cake who is kept in oven and we see it often to ensure its baked properly. Suddenly my Accenture training of Risk Management asked me to escalate the situation and I called my dear friend Vikas and Dinesh; poor guys were worried to hear me and assured me don’t worry and stay calm and get ready…
Before I knew Dinesh had fixed the appointment with a Neuro physician and Vikas was at home to take first stock of the situation… believe me his presence at home was a great respite; I knew that things will now turn better or at least to a Logical Conclusion…
We headed to Neuro physician; dinesh contacts did wonders and we were given special privileges and were ushered in cutting the long Q ( first time I felt good in past 24 hours J ). Doc examined me asked me to pull his hand once from my right and then left hand to evaluate pressure equality and after 15 minutes of further examination proclaimed – You are having Bell’s palsy (www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bell's_palsy); I literally didn’t get it and asked “Balls what?” he smiled and said Bells not balls (fascination with balls J - arey cricket balls baba) . He said again you are having Bell’s Palsy… something which only 2 people have among a Million; and believe me first thing I thought is who is second one ;)
Date - 29th December 2011 - 11 AM IST
Scene – Poona Hospital
So the anxiety and Battle going on my face has a name – Bell’s Palsy; suddenly It reminded me of my History books – the famous battle of Panipat and now here I am fighting battle of Pasly… so what is this thing actually. In Medical terms your nerves which control your facial movements gives away and you have no control on 50% of your facial muscles… In simple terms – this is a major communication problem as my brain was giving orders to my right side of face but nerves were not ready to listen, suddenly they have turned in to one of stubborn kind (this young generation nerves I tell you J ) or it seems they just revolted and went on a strike. Thankfully my other 50% of left facial nerves were loyal to me and for them it was BAU (Business as usual)…
My Neuro physician who was my official Tarot card reader for the day fixed my appointment with a senior Neurology expert and ENT expert to get his analysis confirmed and rule out any other possibilities – by this time I was firm believer that anything is possibleJ. ENT specialist didn’t find anything wrong in ENT area (my mom will be happy to hear it as I was a pathetic hygiene keeper as a kid). The senior Neurology expert again made me do all exercising specially one where i need to pull his hands from both of my hand one by one to ascertain my power equality – which confirmed my belief that I was really good at puling people; you know what I mean J…
They also did a test where they passed current on my cheeks to gauge which nerve was part of strike and which ones are loyal to me… believe me I was close to believe I am in a Mental Hospital ;) but that’s the outcome of being selective two among a million. As part of medicine they put me on steroids and some antiviral medicines to fasten my recovery; but in actual medicine was time… Doc said me it will take around 2 months to recover but you know In India nothing runs on time J
Date - 29th December 2011 - 4 PM IST
Scene – Vikas’s Home
Had Lunch and rested for some time; most difficult task now was to inform family about Battle of Palsy; made first call to Dad and as always he was super cool; listened me patiently – no sign of getting panicked. Asked me if I want him to come over and had a talk with Vicky in detail. He assured me things will be fine and I should not worry at all – best part he said he will convey it to Mom in his own way and I should not worry on that – he is really superb J
Now the easy part (just kidding) – Lie to Sheetal about my situation – of course due to her being pregnant I didn’t told her about BAP (Battle of Palsy baba ) and termed it as Ear infection. Going back to home and staying alone was not an option after last night’s adventitious experience + I wanted to be with Sheetal during this time and decided to go to Surat in evening itself
Date - 29th December 2011 - 8 PM IST
Scene – Shreenath Travels
Vikas was kind of reluctant of me going to surat alone but I assured him that it will be ok and he dropped me to Bus Stop; he and Dinesh missed there office for me whole day and were with me all the times during doctor visit\test etc and there care and affection mad e me richer… That’s the beauty of Friendship – it is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art... It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival...
Ahh forget to mention that Doc told me that my overall face situation will worsen in next 2 days as Bell’s Palsy takes 2-3 days to show all its effects; was not sure what’s left to worsen but I came to knew it the next day :)
Date – 30th December 2011 - 06 AM IST
Scene – Surat Bus Stand
BTW If you are joining me now; suggest reading previous posts for continuity; links at bottom of note…
So here I was at 6 AM in Surat and my dear BIL Sulabh was there to receive me… Fortunately Bus Journey was smooth and night spent was far better compared to last night. Informed Parul (my best friend) about the interesting twist I was going through and she was superly worried of me being travelling alone… the best thing about friends is the care they bestow upon you in tough time and I was fortunate to get it in plenty in last 30 hours… Only problem I faced is - I was given frequent stares from my co-passengers making me feel whether I am being eve teased ;) but I ignored it until Sulabh met me. He, Sheetal and others in family at Surat were informed by me that I am having an ear infection and will be coming over. Sulabh is usually at his cheerful best and one of most jovial person I know; he met me in a more somber mood and was awkwardly quiet… I didn’t get it as by that time one can only gauge BAP (Battle of Palsy) effect only if I open my whole mouth but It seems i was wrong….?
Usually i always capture an image of myself with what I saw last time of me in mirror (not a wise thing but that’s how I am J ) and then it dawned on me that there was no mirror in Bus and Doc’s word echoed (BAP effect will worsen in next 2 days) – Believe me the urge I had to see myself in mirror was more than what it was on my wedding day; I was ready to snatch purse of a nearby lady and take mirror out of it ;)…
Better sense prevailed and without any snatching incident ;) I reached home and again I was greeted with an awkward silence from Sheetal and all; dashed to mirror and saw it – it was not me; it was as if I was seeing a different person altogether… the BAP war was over and casualty was all there my right face… My Right eyebrow was approximately 2 inch below compared to left one; my right eye was only 50% open… I can’t see my right side teeth as right lips refuse to open up; in short there was no equality on my right side of face…
Will never be able to forget that moment; but I was still strong that it will pass… briefed Sheetal and all about past 36 hours and narrated the highlights… As Sheetal was pregnant I didn’t wanted her to know all details but whatever it was in front of her… (That’s why they say – you can’t hide things long from your wife J )
Date – 30th December 2011 - 10 AM IST
Scene – Surat Home
No Matter how strong you are; you always have a threshold on which you give away and I was on verge to know mine… Well it was breakfast time (Surat is one of best place for breakfast BTW); took first spoon of meal and threshold was breached… I was not able to open my mouth to such extent that spoon can go in… and that’s it – The great wall (Not Rahul Dravid in this case) which was intact from past 2 days collapsed…
I just left my meal, went inside the room; Hugged Sheetal and wept - wept like a child… I hated to do it as I was ruining her vacation and troubling her when she need upmost care but there are time when roles get reversed without your consent – after all if everything goes as per plan – there is no fun in life but I didn’t know fun will start now… and I dammed liked it and what was in store – keep reading!!
Date – 30th December 2011 – 2 PM IST
Scene – Doctor # 5
Hey have you read previous 4 parts ? if not links below at end of note :)
How many doctor you have changed in 2 days…? I don’t want the answer as you can’t beat my score J; In past 48 hours I have consulted to 4 doctors and now Family in Surat wanted me to consult 5th doctor… we met the super duper neuro physician and by this time I was exactly knowing what all questions he will ask and what checks he will be performing… Doc proclaimed that analysis of Pune doc is fine (it reminded me Math’s class equations where we used to write – Hence Proved!!) and it’s indeed Bells Palsey. One positive thing which came out is he directed me to a good Physiotherapist; only thing which can improve my recovery is physiotherapy mixed with my will to recover soon…
Date – 30th December 2011 – 5 PM IST
Scene – Physiotherapist clinic
I was kinda less interested in this Physiotherapy thing until I reached her clinic… the beautiful physiotherapist (suddenly my attitude towards medical world was more positive) analyzed and heard me patiently…. I was already feeling better J
Its said that problem looks only that much bigger as you think of it – there were certain aspects of BAP which I was not knowing until now and my Physio introduced it to me. She asked me to blink my right eye, then she asked me to whistle in front of her… Speechless – not because she was asking me to whistle but because I was not able to do it and there were many more things which she asked me to try and I was not able to do it…
To be frank I was not having any affect of these new discoveries… there are times when you just stop reacting… stop feeling bad about things – not because you think this as destiny. It happens because you have will to move on; because you want to leave the happening behind; you have faith on yourself; your close one and your friends and have desire to stay positive… I wanted to move on and it was only possible because of all motivation and positivity which Sheetal and my Dear Friends (Vicky, Dinesh, Parul, Rolly) gave me during those times…
I felt good to know all the impacts from my Physio… at least now I knew that nothing bad will happen from now… Path ahead was of recovery which I was determined to achieve with my beautiful physio (will all due respect)…
Meeting the pysio changed my attitude ( you can check below on my timeline)
Date – 31st December 2011 – 11 PM IST
Scene – Surat Home
Refer to below links at end of note for previous parts...
Celebration time!! It was last day of year; had some big plans for New Year eve but now there were changes; change for good – celebrated it at home with family and it was one of best New Year Celebration I ever had. I firmly believe that it’s not the place which makes moment special; it’s the company in which you are during that moment makes it more special…
Generally people take resolution on New Year day but this time god wanted me to beat them all and he made me to take my resolution before New Year itself. Resolution to fight BAP and smile again :) - Smile had become a distant thing as every time I wanted to smile it displayed a very awkward picture of face as only left side smiled and right side made no attempt to complete that curve (ever heard of split personality ;))
I was in Surat for next 6 days and continued daily routine with my Physio which involved interesting facial expressions and treatment routine… They passed minor electric shocks on daily basis on facial nerves which were on strike so that they can come back to my termsJ; UV and Laser Rays were used as deterrent to ensure nerves fall back in place; they were a stubborn lot but I had to made them realize that I am the BOSS !!
Date – 6th January 2012 – 2PM IST
Scene – Office
Nearly after a week+ I decided to join back office; to be frank I was nervous on reaction I will get from my Colleagues and friends and wanted to delay the joining but after discussion with Sheetal I decided to face the reality. (Wife no doubt does wonder when you are in dilemma). By that time only Mani (my manager) and few of leads were aware of the situation and they gave me all required support during my leave period; but grapevine (I don’t like both wines BTW) had started and the news was tickling in bits and pieces to remaining team (approx. 45).
Quietly went to my desk and booted my Laptop and cool 1300+ unread mail were patiently waiting for me but that was not the priority for me… I was still kinda nervous and then decided to take it head on; called a meeting of whole team – Time to face it. Believe me it was first meeting which I took without agenda; I just wanted to face them all for once to get that nervousness kicked out. Casually spoke to them; took regular updates and what a relief; it was a soothing effect and NOW I WAS BACK!! Back to my normal self; back to project which I cherish; it was never a project for me; it’s my Lifestyle J
Team was fantastic and made me at ease and no uncomfortable Q’s were asked – Loved them. Though there was a lot which believed ( till meeting took place) that I faked this whole thing to took leave – Speechless J; there are more easy health issues I could have claimed liked Viral etc. to take sick leaves. Anyways didn’t gave them a second though nor they deserved; i had more imp. things to look upon my Target date was approaching – 31st January 2012 – Keep Reading !!
Date – 7th January 2012 – 9 AM IST
Scene – Pune Home
Tale is coming to end very soon so ensure you read all previous posts – links below
It was road to recovery from now on… a slow recovery – Nerve is one of the slowest body parts when it comes to healing. In a kind we have a similarity – Laziness; I and nerve take our own sweet time to improve :)
I have a peculiar Habit to give Target to myself for every work I do no matter how small or big it is… it may be reaching to office at particular time or completing some work at particular date… it gives me something to look forward to; something to feel happy about once you achieve that task. Well it’s an altogether different thing that when Wife gives you a task you will not be able to meet the target as she wants it complete it the moment order is given ;)
So my first target to recover from BAP was 31st Jan 2012 which was a super challenging and highly optimistic in itself but it gave me an enthusiastic will to follow my physiotherapy regime with my new Physio as I was in Pune now; he used to come to home every morning at 7 AM and for next 1 hour we use to have interesting exercise regime. Deepak (the new Physio) had some very interesting and innovating ways of reflexing my facial nerves.... He made me blow up balloons every day (different color each day), whistle loudly, throw water from mouth at max distance possible… use straw to blow up air in glass of water. In short I was back to my childhood days – I used to enjoy it and look forward to it every day. The only thing I hated was daily routine of passing minor electricity in nerves so that they can wake up ( it was high time for them anyways )
With the interesting Physio regime - i actually learned the meaning of famous saying - "Winners don’t do different things, they do things differently” and that’s exactly what Deepak was doing with his innovative and different ways of treating me…
Date – 31st January 2012 – 7 AM IST
Scene – Pune Home
I am impatient creature from my early days and always believe in getting things done and achieving it on an instant phase ( May be that’s why I like Maggi – just 2 minutes and it’s done and my Fav fruit is Grapes – Just pop it and chill ). Target date arrived and to be frank I was disappointed; there were improvements here and there but not to the extent what I was expecting… I will not say it was a major disappointment but something which made me paused and think about – I need to be more realistic with my targets – it was god’s own sweet(!!) way to make me more patient – Love his way and its uniqueness… J
Date – 29th Feb 2012 – 11 AM IST
Scene – Office
I know its bit late to reach office by 11 AM but J… anyways by now I had bid adieu to Deepak (Physio) as daily supervision and more importantly the electric treatment was not required as it has no effect after 1.5 months. Though he gave me a set of facial exercise which needs to be repeated 4 times a day which means I need to do it in office also… of course I can’t blow balloons or make faces at my desk and used washrooms for the same… Now a day’s all offices have washroom for differently abled (disabled) personnel and - I used to do my exercise there as in normal washrooms people use to wonder what I am up to by blowing balloons and making faces J (can’t blame them as washroom is one of the best place in office to take out your work frustration and place where most of gossips are shared).
The whole process of using different abled washroom made me feel bad not because I was considering myself as disabled; but it made me realized that what the actual person feels while using such facilities – the whole process of having separate facilities is bad in itself as unknowing we are making him\her realize that you are different from others and need more care etc… it brings down overall Moral of that person… again that’s my personal opinion and altogether a different aspect which we normally don’t think otherwise…
Date – 31st March 2012 – 9 AM IST
Scene – Pune Home
It was close to 3 months now and I have not fully recovered; though doctor initially told me 2 months should be enough (but nothing works on time in India) – Time for a checkup J we first met our Family doc and he coolly said that expect 100% recovery only after a year (I mean WTH) which was double coolly repeated by another Neuro Physician who was kind of expert in this line… I almost gave up on exercise regime as “8 months more to go” was banging hard in my mind but if you have a caring family and loving friends such low moments don’t last long…
As always Sheetal was there to ensure I stay Positive – by this time I have bugged her so much that if I would have been on her place I would have given up. From past 4 months the first question I used to ask her after waking up - “Kuch Farak hai kyaa face pai ?\ Improvement hai kyaa” and poor girl always smiled and replied me positively. Never ever she got frustrated or irritated by my stupid Q’s – Hats off to you Lady – Love you!!
Then there were my true Friends who always helped me to stay motivated. Vicky & Dinesh always talked of positive signs of recovery. Parul was at her cheerful best and gave me courage to continue on. Infact best of all I got offer from Rolly that once I completely recover we will have a Beer together J - I would have dedicated best innovative Motivator award to her if one existed ;)
All this made me felt blessed… without the support of Family and friends i would have never sailed through this period - they are and will always remain my true support system... it was again god’s special way to make me feel special…
Keep Reading!! Last part hits stands tomorrow J
Really I am loss of words today… there is so much to write and then there is none… Seems pressure of putting it as Last Note of the series is dawning upon me... I want this note to be memorable and perfect but this pre-defined target is acting as hindrance to my thought pattern. So I will let it flow naturally without worrying much about the end result J it may be bit emotional on some fronts but it will be natural - the true way…Links to all first 7 parts are below for your reference...
Date – 30th April 2012
Scene – Home
Mind is an amazing evaluation tool; if you are facing a problem alone it flags it as Big Issue but moment you know there are others who have gone through the same issue it considers it less serious. By this time I came to know of others who have faced Bales Palsy – One of them was my Lead and dear Friend Anubhav who had it while he was in class 12th and recovered completely. Other was a colleague of my friend - Kshama and he also recovered in 2 months or so. My cousin bhabhi also faced this some years back and she is also fine now (infact she has one of most beautiful smiles that I have seen around)
All these gave me courage that if they can be all fine; so will be I.
By now exercise was not a fixed 3-4 times in a day affair; I stopped going to washroom to do it J - I used to do it as and when I get time (overall exercise time increased) specially in car while going and coming to office… It was fun on Signals and nearby person thought I am making faces to him ;) Exercise gave me its own sweet moments – Shubh use to watch me daily when Physio use to make me multiple face expression and many times he played with me by becoming Physio and asked me to make some expression or another. Mockingly got angry on me for not doing it right J
Mom and Dad also came to Pune in between multiple times; Dad as always was cool and would not agree at any point of time that I have any effect and I look perfect. Mom was also supportive but I knew she had some worries which she tried her best to hide from me to ensure I don’t think about it. Blessed to have them – Love you!!
Date – 30th May 2012
Scene – Home
BAP had three kinds of Impact on me. Facial – the one that others can make it out like my Smile pattern, eyebrows etc. Non Facial – One that only I can feel like Elasticity of Screen, Muscle strength etc. which is not visible to others. Third and Most important Emotional J
By this time my Facial Expression were back to normal and others can’t make it out that I had BAP. Journey to recovery on Facial front was not easy after I faced setback on my initial targets J but gradually and steadily progress was made - Eyebrows and eyes were first to fall in line; they ended 3 month long strike - best part was I can now blink my right eye – that was huge relief; wish my Surat Physio would have seen it. After tough negotiation ;) and working - Nostrils were the next set to become loyal to me but my lips were the most tough nut to crack; they would just don’t budge to open up.
I badly needed my lips to work back in there normal self (as its public forum can’t describe all disadvantages in detail); I had my unique way to get my favorite curve (Smile!!) back - when we give a good smile all our front teeth’s gets displayed but in my case my right side teeth’s went in to hiding as they were covered by lips and now my target was Teeth Count… Target was to increase Teeth count every 15 days when I smile and it worked… It made me realized that small but consistent cumulative targets always do wonders. Slowly one after another my teeth started to peek out from hiding. In the whole process I got a special gift – as my muscles were toning up; I used to get Dimples (I love dimples; really!!) on right cheek for brief 15-20 days but sadly they parted ways as muscles got strengthened. By end of June the Smile Curve was back J and the right side of face was functioning was almost back to normal!! So Out of 3 impacts – first was gone; two more to go
Date – 22nd June 2012- 8 AM
Scene – Patankar Hospital Pune
Clock struck 8 and after few minutes I got my new bundle of Joy – Parv. God blessed us with our second Kid. After few hours this little cute; adorable fellow was in my hands; half asleep - looking at my face and suddenly he gave me a smile. A Smile which was the cutest that I have seen till date; which made me forget all the worries... forget all emotional backlog that I carry with me. His Birth made me more cheerful, more forward looking and if you have such wonderful bundle of joy who wanna think about some stupid BAP emotional aspects of past J and thus by now Out of 3 impacts – two were gone; one more to go which was Non Facial impact !!
Date – 28th December 2012
Scene – In front of my Laptop – writing the last note J
Today exactly one year back I got Bales Palsy!! I still remember each and every moment of it; those are moments which are meant to be forgotten but they will always remain close to me… The whole BAP; its effects and recovery have made me realize many important aspects of life. It has given me many learning’s which I would have never gone through in normal life… it has made me realized importance of family; friends; importance of staying Positive and have constant belief in God and in one’s self…
Coming out of BAP was a long process which I thoroughly enjoyed and treasured; it was a great roller coaster ride - there were definitely some low moments but that’s part of the overall parcel… it would have been a different story if I would have not got support of
Sheetal – She was a constant companion to whole journey; she witnessed it from the close quarters. She was the one who needed utmost care during those times (pregnancy) but she was the one gave all required support to me; stood strong with me; answered my all stupid Q’s dailyJ ;motivated me always – she firmly believe that it will pass and I need to look forward… YOU MADE IT POSSIBLE!!
Dinesh and Vicky – Guys you can’t believe what your presence meant a year back when I was alone at home… you were the first light of hope; I can’t forget the ease with which we met all specialist; conducted all test. You stayed jovial in hospital and never let me realized that it a big deal I still remember your lines in hospital –Sala kisko itna aakh mara tuney kal jo ye sab huaa J
Parul – Don’t know what to write buddy… this is the not the first time you have helped me sail through. This beautiful friendship of past 10 years is going strong by each passing day… you were always there when I needed you and this time was no exception. Your words did wonders to make me believe that I am a positive person and I should stay that way… Thanks for everything dear!!
Rolly – The Beer girl J; you motivated me at time when I almost gave up on my exercise regime and Beer deal put me back on track… talking with you [though its rare : ( ] made me forget the worry part of BAP specially the jokes ( shhhh…) Thanks for being there yar !! we will surely have Beer party some day J
And some special dear relatives who told me - “This is not the age to get such things”, “ye to ab kabhi thik nahi hoga” and what not…. I wanted to prove them wrong; the urge to prove them wrong was above all… Special Thanks guys J
Now about the third impact – Non Facial – I have also recovered on that front and its back to normal… I can proclaim that I have recovered 98% … Remaining 2% will always remain with me… that’s the way I want it to be… It’s the parting gift from BAP and GOD – Biggest thanks to you Sir J
I still don’t have exact answer why I decided to write down all this after a year… I am not in habit of writing diaries or putting blogs… Intention was never to portrait myself as Fighter or to indulge in self-praise (I am really sorry if it ever sounded that way). I am always bad at holding things or hiding emotions and maybe that’s the reason why I am putting all these here in front of you…
Somehow this was my way to declare Victory over BAP (Battle of Palsy)….
Thanks for reading – all your comments and likes that you have made in this journey of 8 notes are valuable and will be treasured always !!
One year later – A twisty tale… Part I
Date - 28th December 2011 - 03 PM IST
Scene – Pune Railway Station
As always one of the most crowded and chaotic place in Pune; but you literally don’t have choice but navigate yourself with Luggage ensuring your Family is not left behind… So what I was doing here – well came to drop Sheetal (wife), Shubh (Son), Parv (well he was practically there as Sheetal was 3 month pregnant then) Neha (Sister) and Amit (Bro in law). Neha and Amit were in Pune and now going back to mandsaur and Sheetal was going to Surat to spend some quality time with her parents; not as if she don’t spend quality time with me but you know what I mean… J
Well train departed; bid adieu and being one of the professional lot – I went back to office and after some time it started… Slowly but I started feeling a minor irritation on skin below my right eye; not something which was troubling me but it made its presence felt throughout the day
Date - 28th December 2011 - 09 PM IST
Scene – Alone@Home Sweet Home
The worst moment I feel when family is away is to be in home as it’s so silent and lonely compared to lively and fun environment which we all live in… Well this little tiny irritation thing which I was now thinking as early sign of conjunctivitis (Terrible analysis!!) was still there but it has slightly increased its irritation surface as if my face was a battlefield… and i was still ignoring it that it will go away and I continued to royally ignore (I am good at ignoring I guess) it and ordered my dinner from an eatery close by as Sheetal was away L
Dinner came; took first bite and some thing was a miss; food looked good, it tasted good but something was wrong… what? Anyways took some more bites and I realized that I am not able to chew with that strength from my right side of jaw... I mean what the @#$#% - what’s wrong. Quickly checked my face in mirror and by that time all looked good. Somehow finished my dinner and went to sleep…
Date - 29th December 2011 - 03 AM IST
Scene – Alone@Home Sweet Home
Well whenever I goes to bed with a feeling that something is wrong; I never get sound sleep and today was no difference… woke up at 3 AM as irritation surface has expanded and whole right side of my face was a battlefield now… believe me not a good situation to be in specially when you are alone at home and time is 3 AM – checked myself in mirror. Now God has its own ways to send signals J - I yawned in front of mirror and realized that my right side of mouth is not opening properly... totally shocked but it was just the beginning to get shocked…
One year later… A twisty tale - Part II
Date - 29th December 2011 - 06 AM IST
Scene – Alone@Home Sweet Home
During your school days – have you drawn a circle without compass? J you managed to draw a circle but its kinda twisted and not a perfect round – that’s exactly how my mouth was looking when I tried opening it check it nth time in mirror… 1000 thoughts were raising through my mind? Whether I am going through a paralysis attack? Have my muscles got strained and what not… mind is a wonderful thing – no matter how much you control it wants to do Root Cause Analysis at that very moment in such scenario… well there were many possible answers and unfortunately I was not on KBC but sure was on a Hot Seat ;)
Sunrise and its early twilight always smoothen me and bring a feeling of calm and positiveness to me; on a chilly winter morning Sun was trying its best to come out of hazy and cloudy sky and gave a peek to this new look that I have dawned by now… Well time to act and I dialed my Family Doctor Mr Badhe and described him with current battleground updates going on my face and reported first casualty - my mouth; he was out of town and poor guy tried his best to reassure me that everything will be fine and I should visit another doctor immediately... Wow in 8 years this was first time my Family doc advised me to visit other doc – Competition be doomed ;) but that’s what situation demanded…
Date - 29th December 2011 - 08 AM IST
Scene – Y***** Nursing Home
You will not give a second look to this Hospital on Busy GangaDham road but at 8 AM this was my best back to get expert advice (again not on KBC). The doc finally came after keeping me waiting for 30 minutes – can’t blame him it was a chilly winter morning – he did a quick analysis and was kind of puzzled on my situation which made me more puzzled (as if I was less before); I tired helping by suggesting if its start of Paralysis and he ordered a battery of test in his in-house Pathology lab.
He asked me to wait for some time before final verdict is out and asked me to come back by 2 PM; I mean who am I - a cake who is kept in oven and we see it often to ensure its baked properly. Suddenly my Accenture training of Risk Management asked me to escalate the situation and I called my dear friend Vikas and Dinesh; poor guys were worried to hear me and assured me don’t worry and stay calm and get ready…
Before I knew Dinesh had fixed the appointment with a Neuro physician and Vikas was at home to take first stock of the situation… believe me his presence at home was a great respite; I knew that things will now turn better or at least to a Logical Conclusion…
We headed to Neuro physician; dinesh contacts did wonders and we were given special privileges and were ushered in cutting the long Q ( first time I felt good in past 24 hours J ). Doc examined me asked me to pull his hand once from my right and then left hand to evaluate pressure equality and after 15 minutes of further examination proclaimed – You are having Bell’s palsy (www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bell's_palsy); I literally didn’t get it and asked “Balls what?” he smiled and said Bells not balls (fascination with balls J - arey cricket balls baba) . He said again you are having Bell’s Palsy… something which only 2 people have among a Million; and believe me first thing I thought is who is second one ;)
One year later… A twisty tale - Part III
Date - 29th December 2011 - 11 AM IST
Scene – Poona Hospital
So the anxiety and Battle going on my face has a name – Bell’s Palsy; suddenly It reminded me of my History books – the famous battle of Panipat and now here I am fighting battle of Pasly… so what is this thing actually. In Medical terms your nerves which control your facial movements gives away and you have no control on 50% of your facial muscles… In simple terms – this is a major communication problem as my brain was giving orders to my right side of face but nerves were not ready to listen, suddenly they have turned in to one of stubborn kind (this young generation nerves I tell you J ) or it seems they just revolted and went on a strike. Thankfully my other 50% of left facial nerves were loyal to me and for them it was BAU (Business as usual)…
My Neuro physician who was my official Tarot card reader for the day fixed my appointment with a senior Neurology expert and ENT expert to get his analysis confirmed and rule out any other possibilities – by this time I was firm believer that anything is possibleJ. ENT specialist didn’t find anything wrong in ENT area (my mom will be happy to hear it as I was a pathetic hygiene keeper as a kid). The senior Neurology expert again made me do all exercising specially one where i need to pull his hands from both of my hand one by one to ascertain my power equality – which confirmed my belief that I was really good at puling people; you know what I mean J…
They also did a test where they passed current on my cheeks to gauge which nerve was part of strike and which ones are loyal to me… believe me I was close to believe I am in a Mental Hospital ;) but that’s the outcome of being selective two among a million. As part of medicine they put me on steroids and some antiviral medicines to fasten my recovery; but in actual medicine was time… Doc said me it will take around 2 months to recover but you know In India nothing runs on time J
Date - 29th December 2011 - 4 PM IST
Scene – Vikas’s Home
Had Lunch and rested for some time; most difficult task now was to inform family about Battle of Palsy; made first call to Dad and as always he was super cool; listened me patiently – no sign of getting panicked. Asked me if I want him to come over and had a talk with Vicky in detail. He assured me things will be fine and I should not worry at all – best part he said he will convey it to Mom in his own way and I should not worry on that – he is really superb J
Now the easy part (just kidding) – Lie to Sheetal about my situation – of course due to her being pregnant I didn’t told her about BAP (Battle of Palsy baba ) and termed it as Ear infection. Going back to home and staying alone was not an option after last night’s adventitious experience + I wanted to be with Sheetal during this time and decided to go to Surat in evening itself
Date - 29th December 2011 - 8 PM IST
Scene – Shreenath Travels
Vikas was kind of reluctant of me going to surat alone but I assured him that it will be ok and he dropped me to Bus Stop; he and Dinesh missed there office for me whole day and were with me all the times during doctor visit\test etc and there care and affection mad e me richer… That’s the beauty of Friendship – it is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art... It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival...
Ahh forget to mention that Doc told me that my overall face situation will worsen in next 2 days as Bell’s Palsy takes 2-3 days to show all its effects; was not sure what’s left to worsen but I came to knew it the next day :)
One year later… A twisty tale - Part IV
Date – 30th December 2011 - 06 AM IST
Scene – Surat Bus Stand
BTW If you are joining me now; suggest reading previous posts for continuity; links at bottom of note…
So here I was at 6 AM in Surat and my dear BIL Sulabh was there to receive me… Fortunately Bus Journey was smooth and night spent was far better compared to last night. Informed Parul (my best friend) about the interesting twist I was going through and she was superly worried of me being travelling alone… the best thing about friends is the care they bestow upon you in tough time and I was fortunate to get it in plenty in last 30 hours… Only problem I faced is - I was given frequent stares from my co-passengers making me feel whether I am being eve teased ;) but I ignored it until Sulabh met me. He, Sheetal and others in family at Surat were informed by me that I am having an ear infection and will be coming over. Sulabh is usually at his cheerful best and one of most jovial person I know; he met me in a more somber mood and was awkwardly quiet… I didn’t get it as by that time one can only gauge BAP (Battle of Palsy) effect only if I open my whole mouth but It seems i was wrong….?
Usually i always capture an image of myself with what I saw last time of me in mirror (not a wise thing but that’s how I am J ) and then it dawned on me that there was no mirror in Bus and Doc’s word echoed (BAP effect will worsen in next 2 days) – Believe me the urge I had to see myself in mirror was more than what it was on my wedding day; I was ready to snatch purse of a nearby lady and take mirror out of it ;)…
Better sense prevailed and without any snatching incident ;) I reached home and again I was greeted with an awkward silence from Sheetal and all; dashed to mirror and saw it – it was not me; it was as if I was seeing a different person altogether… the BAP war was over and casualty was all there my right face… My Right eyebrow was approximately 2 inch below compared to left one; my right eye was only 50% open… I can’t see my right side teeth as right lips refuse to open up; in short there was no equality on my right side of face…
Will never be able to forget that moment; but I was still strong that it will pass… briefed Sheetal and all about past 36 hours and narrated the highlights… As Sheetal was pregnant I didn’t wanted her to know all details but whatever it was in front of her… (That’s why they say – you can’t hide things long from your wife J )
Date – 30th December 2011 - 10 AM IST
Scene – Surat Home
No Matter how strong you are; you always have a threshold on which you give away and I was on verge to know mine… Well it was breakfast time (Surat is one of best place for breakfast BTW); took first spoon of meal and threshold was breached… I was not able to open my mouth to such extent that spoon can go in… and that’s it – The great wall (Not Rahul Dravid in this case) which was intact from past 2 days collapsed…
I just left my meal, went inside the room; Hugged Sheetal and wept - wept like a child… I hated to do it as I was ruining her vacation and troubling her when she need upmost care but there are time when roles get reversed without your consent – after all if everything goes as per plan – there is no fun in life but I didn’t know fun will start now… and I dammed liked it and what was in store – keep reading!!
One year later… A twisty tale - Part V
Date – 30th December 2011 – 2 PM IST
Scene – Doctor # 5
Hey have you read previous 4 parts ? if not links below at end of note :)
How many doctor you have changed in 2 days…? I don’t want the answer as you can’t beat my score J; In past 48 hours I have consulted to 4 doctors and now Family in Surat wanted me to consult 5th doctor… we met the super duper neuro physician and by this time I was exactly knowing what all questions he will ask and what checks he will be performing… Doc proclaimed that analysis of Pune doc is fine (it reminded me Math’s class equations where we used to write – Hence Proved!!) and it’s indeed Bells Palsey. One positive thing which came out is he directed me to a good Physiotherapist; only thing which can improve my recovery is physiotherapy mixed with my will to recover soon…
Date – 30th December 2011 – 5 PM IST
Scene – Physiotherapist clinic
I was kinda less interested in this Physiotherapy thing until I reached her clinic… the beautiful physiotherapist (suddenly my attitude towards medical world was more positive) analyzed and heard me patiently…. I was already feeling better J
Its said that problem looks only that much bigger as you think of it – there were certain aspects of BAP which I was not knowing until now and my Physio introduced it to me. She asked me to blink my right eye, then she asked me to whistle in front of her… Speechless – not because she was asking me to whistle but because I was not able to do it and there were many more things which she asked me to try and I was not able to do it…
To be frank I was not having any affect of these new discoveries… there are times when you just stop reacting… stop feeling bad about things – not because you think this as destiny. It happens because you have will to move on; because you want to leave the happening behind; you have faith on yourself; your close one and your friends and have desire to stay positive… I wanted to move on and it was only possible because of all motivation and positivity which Sheetal and my Dear Friends (Vicky, Dinesh, Parul, Rolly) gave me during those times…
I felt good to know all the impacts from my Physio… at least now I knew that nothing bad will happen from now… Path ahead was of recovery which I was determined to achieve with my beautiful physio (will all due respect)…
Meeting the pysio changed my attitude ( you can check below on my timeline)
- A day before my FB Status read – “its 50% off time in my life.”
- After meeting her my FB Status was – “Never give up hope; maybe it is all you have but it will definitely lead you to all that you want”
One year later… A twisty tale - Part VI
Date – 31st December 2011 – 11 PM IST
Scene – Surat Home
Refer to below links at end of note for previous parts...
Celebration time!! It was last day of year; had some big plans for New Year eve but now there were changes; change for good – celebrated it at home with family and it was one of best New Year Celebration I ever had. I firmly believe that it’s not the place which makes moment special; it’s the company in which you are during that moment makes it more special…
Generally people take resolution on New Year day but this time god wanted me to beat them all and he made me to take my resolution before New Year itself. Resolution to fight BAP and smile again :) - Smile had become a distant thing as every time I wanted to smile it displayed a very awkward picture of face as only left side smiled and right side made no attempt to complete that curve (ever heard of split personality ;))
I was in Surat for next 6 days and continued daily routine with my Physio which involved interesting facial expressions and treatment routine… They passed minor electric shocks on daily basis on facial nerves which were on strike so that they can come back to my termsJ; UV and Laser Rays were used as deterrent to ensure nerves fall back in place; they were a stubborn lot but I had to made them realize that I am the BOSS !!
Date – 6th January 2012 – 2PM IST
Scene – Office
Nearly after a week+ I decided to join back office; to be frank I was nervous on reaction I will get from my Colleagues and friends and wanted to delay the joining but after discussion with Sheetal I decided to face the reality. (Wife no doubt does wonder when you are in dilemma). By that time only Mani (my manager) and few of leads were aware of the situation and they gave me all required support during my leave period; but grapevine (I don’t like both wines BTW) had started and the news was tickling in bits and pieces to remaining team (approx. 45).
Quietly went to my desk and booted my Laptop and cool 1300+ unread mail were patiently waiting for me but that was not the priority for me… I was still kinda nervous and then decided to take it head on; called a meeting of whole team – Time to face it. Believe me it was first meeting which I took without agenda; I just wanted to face them all for once to get that nervousness kicked out. Casually spoke to them; took regular updates and what a relief; it was a soothing effect and NOW I WAS BACK!! Back to my normal self; back to project which I cherish; it was never a project for me; it’s my Lifestyle J
Team was fantastic and made me at ease and no uncomfortable Q’s were asked – Loved them. Though there was a lot which believed ( till meeting took place) that I faked this whole thing to took leave – Speechless J; there are more easy health issues I could have claimed liked Viral etc. to take sick leaves. Anyways didn’t gave them a second though nor they deserved; i had more imp. things to look upon my Target date was approaching – 31st January 2012 – Keep Reading !!
One year later… A twisty tale - Part VII
Date – 7th January 2012 – 9 AM IST
Scene – Pune Home
Tale is coming to end very soon so ensure you read all previous posts – links below
It was road to recovery from now on… a slow recovery – Nerve is one of the slowest body parts when it comes to healing. In a kind we have a similarity – Laziness; I and nerve take our own sweet time to improve :)
I have a peculiar Habit to give Target to myself for every work I do no matter how small or big it is… it may be reaching to office at particular time or completing some work at particular date… it gives me something to look forward to; something to feel happy about once you achieve that task. Well it’s an altogether different thing that when Wife gives you a task you will not be able to meet the target as she wants it complete it the moment order is given ;)
So my first target to recover from BAP was 31st Jan 2012 which was a super challenging and highly optimistic in itself but it gave me an enthusiastic will to follow my physiotherapy regime with my new Physio as I was in Pune now; he used to come to home every morning at 7 AM and for next 1 hour we use to have interesting exercise regime. Deepak (the new Physio) had some very interesting and innovating ways of reflexing my facial nerves.... He made me blow up balloons every day (different color each day), whistle loudly, throw water from mouth at max distance possible… use straw to blow up air in glass of water. In short I was back to my childhood days – I used to enjoy it and look forward to it every day. The only thing I hated was daily routine of passing minor electricity in nerves so that they can wake up ( it was high time for them anyways )
With the interesting Physio regime - i actually learned the meaning of famous saying - "Winners don’t do different things, they do things differently” and that’s exactly what Deepak was doing with his innovative and different ways of treating me…
Date – 31st January 2012 – 7 AM IST
Scene – Pune Home
I am impatient creature from my early days and always believe in getting things done and achieving it on an instant phase ( May be that’s why I like Maggi – just 2 minutes and it’s done and my Fav fruit is Grapes – Just pop it and chill ). Target date arrived and to be frank I was disappointed; there were improvements here and there but not to the extent what I was expecting… I will not say it was a major disappointment but something which made me paused and think about – I need to be more realistic with my targets – it was god’s own sweet(!!) way to make me more patient – Love his way and its uniqueness… J
Date – 29th Feb 2012 – 11 AM IST
Scene – Office
I know its bit late to reach office by 11 AM but J… anyways by now I had bid adieu to Deepak (Physio) as daily supervision and more importantly the electric treatment was not required as it has no effect after 1.5 months. Though he gave me a set of facial exercise which needs to be repeated 4 times a day which means I need to do it in office also… of course I can’t blow balloons or make faces at my desk and used washrooms for the same… Now a day’s all offices have washroom for differently abled (disabled) personnel and - I used to do my exercise there as in normal washrooms people use to wonder what I am up to by blowing balloons and making faces J (can’t blame them as washroom is one of the best place in office to take out your work frustration and place where most of gossips are shared).
The whole process of using different abled washroom made me feel bad not because I was considering myself as disabled; but it made me realized that what the actual person feels while using such facilities – the whole process of having separate facilities is bad in itself as unknowing we are making him\her realize that you are different from others and need more care etc… it brings down overall Moral of that person… again that’s my personal opinion and altogether a different aspect which we normally don’t think otherwise…
Date – 31st March 2012 – 9 AM IST
Scene – Pune Home
It was close to 3 months now and I have not fully recovered; though doctor initially told me 2 months should be enough (but nothing works on time in India) – Time for a checkup J we first met our Family doc and he coolly said that expect 100% recovery only after a year (I mean WTH) which was double coolly repeated by another Neuro Physician who was kind of expert in this line… I almost gave up on exercise regime as “8 months more to go” was banging hard in my mind but if you have a caring family and loving friends such low moments don’t last long…
As always Sheetal was there to ensure I stay Positive – by this time I have bugged her so much that if I would have been on her place I would have given up. From past 4 months the first question I used to ask her after waking up - “Kuch Farak hai kyaa face pai ?\ Improvement hai kyaa” and poor girl always smiled and replied me positively. Never ever she got frustrated or irritated by my stupid Q’s – Hats off to you Lady – Love you!!
Then there were my true Friends who always helped me to stay motivated. Vicky & Dinesh always talked of positive signs of recovery. Parul was at her cheerful best and gave me courage to continue on. Infact best of all I got offer from Rolly that once I completely recover we will have a Beer together J - I would have dedicated best innovative Motivator award to her if one existed ;)
All this made me felt blessed… without the support of Family and friends i would have never sailed through this period - they are and will always remain my true support system... it was again god’s special way to make me feel special…
Keep Reading!! Last part hits stands tomorrow J
One year later… A twisty tale – Last Part!!
Really I am loss of words today… there is so much to write and then there is none… Seems pressure of putting it as Last Note of the series is dawning upon me... I want this note to be memorable and perfect but this pre-defined target is acting as hindrance to my thought pattern. So I will let it flow naturally without worrying much about the end result J it may be bit emotional on some fronts but it will be natural - the true way…Links to all first 7 parts are below for your reference...
Date – 30th April 2012
Scene – Home
Mind is an amazing evaluation tool; if you are facing a problem alone it flags it as Big Issue but moment you know there are others who have gone through the same issue it considers it less serious. By this time I came to know of others who have faced Bales Palsy – One of them was my Lead and dear Friend Anubhav who had it while he was in class 12th and recovered completely. Other was a colleague of my friend - Kshama and he also recovered in 2 months or so. My cousin bhabhi also faced this some years back and she is also fine now (infact she has one of most beautiful smiles that I have seen around)
All these gave me courage that if they can be all fine; so will be I.
By now exercise was not a fixed 3-4 times in a day affair; I stopped going to washroom to do it J - I used to do it as and when I get time (overall exercise time increased) specially in car while going and coming to office… It was fun on Signals and nearby person thought I am making faces to him ;) Exercise gave me its own sweet moments – Shubh use to watch me daily when Physio use to make me multiple face expression and many times he played with me by becoming Physio and asked me to make some expression or another. Mockingly got angry on me for not doing it right J
Mom and Dad also came to Pune in between multiple times; Dad as always was cool and would not agree at any point of time that I have any effect and I look perfect. Mom was also supportive but I knew she had some worries which she tried her best to hide from me to ensure I don’t think about it. Blessed to have them – Love you!!
Date – 30th May 2012
Scene – Home
BAP had three kinds of Impact on me. Facial – the one that others can make it out like my Smile pattern, eyebrows etc. Non Facial – One that only I can feel like Elasticity of Screen, Muscle strength etc. which is not visible to others. Third and Most important Emotional J
By this time my Facial Expression were back to normal and others can’t make it out that I had BAP. Journey to recovery on Facial front was not easy after I faced setback on my initial targets J but gradually and steadily progress was made - Eyebrows and eyes were first to fall in line; they ended 3 month long strike - best part was I can now blink my right eye – that was huge relief; wish my Surat Physio would have seen it. After tough negotiation ;) and working - Nostrils were the next set to become loyal to me but my lips were the most tough nut to crack; they would just don’t budge to open up.
I badly needed my lips to work back in there normal self (as its public forum can’t describe all disadvantages in detail); I had my unique way to get my favorite curve (Smile!!) back - when we give a good smile all our front teeth’s gets displayed but in my case my right side teeth’s went in to hiding as they were covered by lips and now my target was Teeth Count… Target was to increase Teeth count every 15 days when I smile and it worked… It made me realized that small but consistent cumulative targets always do wonders. Slowly one after another my teeth started to peek out from hiding. In the whole process I got a special gift – as my muscles were toning up; I used to get Dimples (I love dimples; really!!) on right cheek for brief 15-20 days but sadly they parted ways as muscles got strengthened. By end of June the Smile Curve was back J and the right side of face was functioning was almost back to normal!! So Out of 3 impacts – first was gone; two more to go
Date – 22nd June 2012- 8 AM
Scene – Patankar Hospital Pune
Clock struck 8 and after few minutes I got my new bundle of Joy – Parv. God blessed us with our second Kid. After few hours this little cute; adorable fellow was in my hands; half asleep - looking at my face and suddenly he gave me a smile. A Smile which was the cutest that I have seen till date; which made me forget all the worries... forget all emotional backlog that I carry with me. His Birth made me more cheerful, more forward looking and if you have such wonderful bundle of joy who wanna think about some stupid BAP emotional aspects of past J and thus by now Out of 3 impacts – two were gone; one more to go which was Non Facial impact !!
Date – 28th December 2012
Scene – In front of my Laptop – writing the last note J
Today exactly one year back I got Bales Palsy!! I still remember each and every moment of it; those are moments which are meant to be forgotten but they will always remain close to me… The whole BAP; its effects and recovery have made me realize many important aspects of life. It has given me many learning’s which I would have never gone through in normal life… it has made me realized importance of family; friends; importance of staying Positive and have constant belief in God and in one’s self…
Coming out of BAP was a long process which I thoroughly enjoyed and treasured; it was a great roller coaster ride - there were definitely some low moments but that’s part of the overall parcel… it would have been a different story if I would have not got support of
Sheetal – She was a constant companion to whole journey; she witnessed it from the close quarters. She was the one who needed utmost care during those times (pregnancy) but she was the one gave all required support to me; stood strong with me; answered my all stupid Q’s dailyJ ;motivated me always – she firmly believe that it will pass and I need to look forward… YOU MADE IT POSSIBLE!!
Dinesh and Vicky – Guys you can’t believe what your presence meant a year back when I was alone at home… you were the first light of hope; I can’t forget the ease with which we met all specialist; conducted all test. You stayed jovial in hospital and never let me realized that it a big deal I still remember your lines in hospital –Sala kisko itna aakh mara tuney kal jo ye sab huaa J
Parul – Don’t know what to write buddy… this is the not the first time you have helped me sail through. This beautiful friendship of past 10 years is going strong by each passing day… you were always there when I needed you and this time was no exception. Your words did wonders to make me believe that I am a positive person and I should stay that way… Thanks for everything dear!!
Rolly – The Beer girl J; you motivated me at time when I almost gave up on my exercise regime and Beer deal put me back on track… talking with you [though its rare : ( ] made me forget the worry part of BAP specially the jokes ( shhhh…) Thanks for being there yar !! we will surely have Beer party some day J
And some special dear relatives who told me - “This is not the age to get such things”, “ye to ab kabhi thik nahi hoga” and what not…. I wanted to prove them wrong; the urge to prove them wrong was above all… Special Thanks guys J
Now about the third impact – Non Facial – I have also recovered on that front and its back to normal… I can proclaim that I have recovered 98% … Remaining 2% will always remain with me… that’s the way I want it to be… It’s the parting gift from BAP and GOD – Biggest thanks to you Sir J
I still don’t have exact answer why I decided to write down all this after a year… I am not in habit of writing diaries or putting blogs… Intention was never to portrait myself as Fighter or to indulge in self-praise (I am really sorry if it ever sounded that way). I am always bad at holding things or hiding emotions and maybe that’s the reason why I am putting all these here in front of you…
Somehow this was my way to declare Victory over BAP (Battle of Palsy)….
Thanks for reading – all your comments and likes that you have made in this journey of 8 notes are valuable and will be treasured always !!
As a wife of a physiotherapist, I've witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact of physical therapy on people with paralysis. That's why I'm using this platform to raise awareness – physical therapy can be incredibly effective in managing paralysis!
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