Discharge Day After Thyroid Cancer Surgery
I completed my discharge process. With my final outpatient visit, my one-week hospital stay finally came to an end.
The drainage tube connected to my neck, where I had surgery, had already been removed the day before. As the doctor slowly pulled the tube out, I felt a strange sense of relief.
The bandage covering my wound was removed, disinfected, and carefully replaced. The doctor’s expression remained neutral, as if this was just another routine task.
The IV needle in my left hand and the remaining tubes were also removed. I finally felt free.
Leaving the Hospital
After a short outpatient appointment, I returned to the ward. I realized I had packed more than I thought. There was quite a lot to take back home.
I changed out of my hospital gown. It felt like I was finally removing the label of being a patient.
At the lobby on the first floor, I settled my hospital bills and received medication for the upcoming days until my next visit.
I was admitted on a sunny day, and I was discharged on a sunny day. That alone made everything feel a little less heavy.
Back Home, Back to Myself
Once I got home, I carefully wrapped my neck and took a light shower. I even washed my hair.
It felt refreshing. Clean. Like I was slowly returning to myself.
The doctor only approved three weeks of medical leave, including the surgery date. I asked if it could be extended, but the answer was firm.
“No.”
I didn’t cry during the surgery. But something about that cold, unwavering response made my emotions break.
Thoughts About Returning to Work
My leave lasts until May 11. But honestly, I’m thinking it might be better to just go back to work on May 1.
Back in March, I had a mammotome procedure and planned to rest until the end of April. But then, unexpectedly, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
Half of April was spent going back and forth to the hospital, dealing with anxiety, surgery, and recovery.
My doctor has always been a bit cold. From the very first meeting, consistent—almost like an AI.
It’s not blame. I understand. With so many patients, emotions must be set aside.
Still, I had a thought while showering.
“Maybe I should just go back to work like usual. I’ve rested enough.”
I’m trying to gather my inner positivity.
A Quiet Resolution
“You did well. That must have been hard. But the cancer is gone now. Don’t let small things stress you anymore.”
That’s what I keep telling myself.
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