On January 26, 2017, I was diagnosed with appendicitis, and an hour later, I had my appendix removed. While normal people would probably have found an appendectomy solely inconvenient and painful, I was left feeling more thankful than anything. Here are four reasons why.
I Realized I Have Solid Health Care
Without insurance, the bill would have amounted to over $30,000 out of pocket, which is an extremely high amount for such a routine operation, let alone for a college student. I wasn't even in the hospital for 24 hours.
There are so many people in this world who do not have easy or any access to affordable medical care. With Trump’s recent executive order, millions of Americans’ access to health care is being threatened. For the first time in my life, I really saw my privilege in this regard in play--a privilege I’ve honestly been blind to. So, I'm thankful for the excellent care I have access to, because not everyone in America does.
I Have a Killer Support System
The moment I was checked in the hospital, my dad was going to drive up from the Bay Area to Davis. I had to tell the homie to relax and wait until I had been officially diagnosed (for the record, I totally called I had appendicitis!).
My squad was there before and after the operation, my dad was in traffic for 3 hours to come see me, and my mom and brother drove up the next day. My family and friends went through such extents over an appendectomy, one of the most simple and risk-free procedures. I know I have a strong support system that's got my back, and for that, I am super blessed.
I Am In Good Health
I have great health, and with that comes the ability to do many things on my own, one being able to eat real chicken noodle soup without difficulty. Getting up every morning, making breakfast, and going to class in and of itself is a privilege not everyone has.
Apart from this procedure, I’ve never been checked in to a hospital. It was weird wearing the gown, it was weird having an IV and it was terrible eating this shady soup
I have great health, and with that comes the ability to do many things on my own, one being able to eat real chicken noodle soup without difficulty. Getting up every morning, making breakfast, and going to class in and of itself is a privilege not everyone has.
Acknowledge Your Privileges
I’ll conclude with this: count your privileges. Seriously. Take out a pen and pencil, and write down as many blessings in your life as you can. Some people have few, or even none. I have many, and truthfully, I am guilty of not acknowledging and appreciating them enough.
But, acknowledgment is only the first step. Use whatever privileges you have to positively impact the lives of others. If you have the ability to make a difference, then use it. I'm going to make more of a conscious effort to do so, and I encourage you to as well.