The past year and eight months have undoubtedly been some of the most difficult and challenging periods of my entire life. Everything started back in February 2024 when I suddenly experienced intense and severe gallbladder attacks that came out of nowhere. These attacks were so painful and overwhelming that they ultimately resulted in the decision to have my gallbladder surgically removed. I went into the surgery with the hope and expectation that this procedure would mark the end of all the pain and discomfort I had been suffering from. Unfortunately, rather than bringing relief, the surgery turned out to be just the very beginning of a much longer and more complicated journey.

After the operation, the intense pain never subsided or lessened in any meaningful way. Months and months went by as I searched desperately and tirelessly for answers and relief. Doctors offered a wide range of varying opinions—some simply dismissed it as nothing more than acid reflux, while others blamed a muscle injury caused by the surgery that, according to them, should have fully healed within a few weeks. But the reality I lived day to day was very different and far more severe. More than a year later, the pain remains constant, unrelenting, and utterly disabling. Even standing or walking for more than 15 minutes leaves me completely bedridden for an entire week. The simplest, most basic movements could trigger unbearable, excruciating pain, leaving me feeling sick, weak, and totally incapacitated.

During this challenging period, I frequently found myself untreated and unable to maintain my regular work schedule. The career I had diligently built over many years, dedicating countless long hours and unwavering commitment as a manager, suffered the most significant setback. I was expected to be physically present in the office to lead and support my team effectively, but the persistent pain compelled me to step back from my usual responsibilities and transition to a role as technical team member, allowing me to work remotely. This shift was a difficult and painful adjustment that affected me deeply, both on a professional level and in my personal life.

The timing of everything couldn’t have been more unfortunate. My first child was still less than a year old when the painful gallbladder attacks started to occur frequently. I ended up missing so many important milestones—like being there to help him take his very first steps and learn how to walk—because I was often confined to bed, unable to move or care for him properly. The emotional toll of missing those precious, irreplaceable moments with my baby weighed heavily on my heart and mind every single day.

Throughout all of these challenges, the mental strain I experienced was incredibly immense and often overwhelming, I was deeply depressed and often thought myself a burden, not knowing whether I could continue as I was. Nevertheless, I drew immense strength and comfort from the unwavering support of my loving family, as well as the steady guidance and encouragement provided by my dedicated therapist. They continually reminded me that despite the limitations I was facing, I was still able to create and contribute in deeply meaningful and impactful ways. They also made sure to express that this happening to me was through no fault of my own and I deserved the love and support I was getting. During this difficult period, I found solace in turning to my cherished hobbies—painting and writing—which offered a much-needed escape and source of joy. In fact, I even managed to publish a young adult novel, a significant accomplishment that I am proud of. These creative outlets ultimately became a vital lifeline for me, serving as a powerful testament to my resilience and determination to keep moving forward.

This journey has taught me a tremendous amount about patience, inner strength, and the enduring power of hope. Although the pain persists and sometimes feels overwhelming, I hold firmly to the progress I have made over time and the unwavering support that surrounds me every day. I share my story openly to remind others who are facing invisible struggles that they are never truly alone, and that even during the darkest and most challenging moments, resilience and courage can still shine brightly through the shadows.