Home Again!

The balance of the galaxy is restored again, as Amar and Nisa have both safely returned. Upon seeing Amar today, I have never seen Sarah so happy. She was smiling broadly, and just couldn't stop hugging, kissing and making Amar laugh. It was a nice sight to see.

Before leaving the surgical registrar, a Mr(1) Amar(2) came to meet me. He explained a few things. He said that when Amar came in, he was septic. His hand x-ray did show changes of bony erosion(!!) but he did not think it's osteomyelitis. As I have mentioned previously, osteomyelitis, or infection of the bone, is extremely serious. If untreated and left without antibiotics the infection could eat away the bones causing rapid bone destruction. Osteomyelitis may appear as bony erosions on an x-ray. So I did think it was strange the surgeons did not think it was osteomyelitis. There's a chance that the infection may spontaneously recur. Results from the pus culture is still pending, but he said he does not think it's any "weird organisms or fungi" as the infection resolved quickly with Flucloxacillin post op (he mentioned Amar's ESR was only 23 and CRP was "normal").

Mr Amar revealed that because the infection did not resolve with antibiotics and became progressively worse, they had no choice but to operate.

The surgical team will be reviewing Amar's progress this Friday, and next Thursday in the clinic attached to the ward.

Overall, I am extremely happy with the care the team provided and Mr Amar was very approachable and had excellent manners. He explained everything clearly and was very polite.

I am also extremely happy that Amar & Nisa are back home safe and sound. To celebrate, we went for lunch at our favourite restaurant(3) and for a leisurely stroll in town.

Looking back, you can never predict when a misfortune is going to happen, and though we planned many things for the special post-exams weekend, all had to be cancelled. At the end of the day, I'm thankful to God that Amar alright and that although the situation was difficult, it was within limits of our endurance.

Thank you to all our family and friends who have prayed for us and who have given us plenty of emotional support. Thank you!

Notes:

1. In the UK, surgeons are titled "Mr*" instead of "Dr". This is because, until the mid-19th century only physicians had to go to University for doctorates. At that time surgeons trained on apprenticeship, then given a diploma (instead of a degree) for passing exams conducted by the Royal College of Surgeons, and therefore they were not able to call themselves "doctors" , instead keeping the title "Mr*"
2. Coincidentally, Amar's surgeon is also called Amar
3. Our favourite restaurant is where else, Nandos of course. The only proper restaurant providing halal chicken in this city.
4. Mama Sarah has PLENTY to talk about, so expect updates to her blog in the next few days.

*or Miss or Mrs