The Support System

Hi,

Happy Friday! It’s 7:05 AM, and while the rest of the world is probably hitting snooze for the third time, I’m reporting live from Penang General Hospital. My mission started at 6:30 AM sharp. By 7:00 AM, the queue finally moved, and I reached the finish line at 7:02 AM to drop the appointment card into the box. Yes, a physical box!

Spot a box at the middle of the counter

In a world of AI and flying drones, we are still playing the drop the card in the slot game. It’s very vintage, very 1990s chic. Even with my early morning sprinting, I only secured Number 12 in the run. For government hospitals, being Number 12 is basically winning a bronze medal. I’ll take it!

I’m here this early because a doctor friend gave me the golden rule, get there early, or prepare to move in and pay rent in the waiting room. I’d do anything to make sure my parents don't have to endure a five-hour wait, so the early morning cardio is a small price to pay for their comfort. Hopefully, we can settle everything quickly today. (Update: Yes, they did. All done by noon)

The best part of this madness is that Dad is absolutely crushing his recovery. He has gone from being unable to sit up to taking baby steps with support. Between three Physio sessions, two Occupational Therapy sessions, and Rehab every two weeks, he is basically in athlete training mode. They say the first three months after a stroke are the golden period, and I can officially confirm that’s a fact. He’s gaining his life back, one shaky step at a time.

If there is one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the real secret to recovery is the support system. In the beginning, they feel completely helpless, and the truth is, they are. They need us to be their legs, their memory, and their loudest cheerleaders. If we don’t give up on them, they won't give up on themselves. We have to be the strength they don't have yet.

I've made it back to the unit by 9.00 AM, safely tucked away from the hospital hustle. I am going up to the rooftop to check on what's there at the place I'm staying. Then, I'm going to do a bit of quick packing and organizing before I head off to work to start my official day. 

The perfect home base for a quick Penang adventure.

Penang skyline from the roof top.

It’s been a whirlwind morning, but seeing that progress makes every early sprint worth it. Time to shift gears and get to the office! See you again next time. Bye!