Cranioplasty and my titanium plate

 If you remember, after my accident, my surgeon removed the right side of my skull; this is known as craniotomy in medical terminology. This was done to allow my brain space to swell. I spent over a month with only half my skull. Following that in mid-January, I had another risky operation known as a Cranioplasty. So what is a cranioplasty? It is the process of closing your head again. Sometimes the skull is put back, but in my case, I had a titanium plate placed instead of my skull. I assume in a hurry to remove the skull, the skull may be damaged - because it’s usually an issue of life and death, the operation has to be done quickly - but please don’t quote me on that, I am no neurologist. I remember in RHN (Royal hospital of Neuro-disability), some patients were still awaiting their cranioplasty; a few would wear special helmets to protect their heads. But other people, you would see where their head was caved in because there was no skull, it was a scary sight. I had my cranioplasty in mid-January 2018. I did deteriorate a bit after my cranioplasty. It is a very precarious operation. A week after the cranioplasty, I had a big seizure. I have been epileptic since then. My seizures now are a yearly occurrence unless I am ill. It’s no fun being epileptic, but it serves as a reminder that I am ill and very dependent on God. I have learned to try and be positive about my hardships, and I always think about people who have it worse than me. I know my injury could be far worse. Being epileptic means I am not allowed to be alone in my own home and I am not allowed out by myself either. It’s funny because I am 41!

I understand why I can’t go out alone, and my husband has to listen to my constant moans, but as they say all in good time. I know you all think I am an inspiration, but I can honestly say I have an extraordinary husband watching my back. It is commonly quoted behind every strong man is a woman, in my case, it's the opposite. As for my titanium plate, my kids know I am very proud of it, and we often joke about it that if I was ever to go on holiday, the scanner in the airport's security would bleep.

I once read ‘how can the sky be the limit - we have stars'. I intend, God willing to perform Umra ( small pilgrimage) soon, as I am slightly better. I intend to read the holy book in front of the Kaaba and the prophet Muhammad's mosque; one day, God willing.

Next week I shall address if God wills, coming out of a comma and my move to my next residence The Royal Hospital Of Neuro Disability (RHN)