Remembering You

What does not kill us makes us stronger.
Friedrich Nietzsche

I was once admitted in the hospital for having excruciating pain on my thumb (reactive arthritis). It was badly swollen, inflamed and the pain was unbearable. It was a Sunday, so I was taken to the emergency department and admitted thereafter. I was warded in a two-bed room; and the patient next to me was a lady in her early thirties.

She looked well and bubbly. I couldn't think that she had any illness at all. We spoke and I told her that I was admitted for my joint pain and elevated ESR. I added that the doctors are yet to find the reasons.

She has lung cancer.
It started with continuous irritating cough for months and after several tests, she was diagnosed with lung cancer. She told me that she never smoked and non of the family members smoked either. She didn't know why she has it. The reason of her admission is to give her a 'port' and to start chemotherapy immediately. I have never seen her sulk even once, during my short stay. She was happy and bubbly as ever.

I got discharged and I met her again at the hospital lobby few weeks later. I noticed her head- scarf (obviously suffering due to the side effects of chemo drugs). She was still smiling and cheerful. She asked me concernedly, if the doctors have diagnosed my illness. I shrugged and said no.

I never saw her again. I will always remember her for her courage and determination. She inspires me in many ways though she didn't know any of this at all. I would like to dedicate this post to her. I wish for your happiness. I hope your sufferings have ended; and may you live a prosperously healthy life ever after.