Since June this year, a simple daily chore like washing dishes has become a hands-off task for my Alycia. 6th June was the day her left ring finger was severely injured after a glass container shattered when it slipped from her hand when she was washing it and required immediate surgery. What started as a two-month recovery period turned into a five-month journey, and she still hasn’t touched a single greasy dish.
Initially, Alycia’s surgeon estimated that she’d be back to normal activities by August. But due to an infection that developed in the finger two months after the surgery, she needed a second emergency surgery to drain the pus. This setback, and the lingering risk of infection, has made me wary of letting her handle any dishwashing duties. Even her very understanding and compassionate boss at the café where she works part-time told her that she could come back to work and doesn’t have to handle dishwashing.
Though the second surgery should have been the end of her troubles, she faced yet another challenge when blisters formed on her finger a couple of months later. We’re all a little frustrated by the slow recovery, but protecting her finger from further issues has become a priority.
As a result, I’ve taken on the extra task of washing all of her dishes, even when I’ve already settled into clean clothes after a shower. It’s not an ideal situation, and I’d be lying if I said it doesn’t get tiring and frustrating, and at times I do feel angry. On top of the extra washing, I’ve switched to gentle dishwashing liquids to protect her finger from harsh chemicals, in case she washes non-oily dishes, adding an extra cost. Every time she places her used plates and cutlery in the sink, there’s a moment of frustration; but I remind myself that it’s for her healing and peace of mind.
It’s been a challenging year, with unexpected hurdles one after another, but we’re pushing through. Next year, I look forward to a fresh start and hope for Alycia’s full recovery. Here’s to hoping 2024 brings healing, health, and a full return to daily routines for both Alycia and me!
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