I was hospitalized for eleven days.

For a stage 3 colorectal cancer surgery it may have been relatively short.

Some friends and acquaintances had planned to visit once things settled after the surgery but the timing didn’t work out.

Even so there were those who adjusted their schedules and came to see me.

Before I knew it I had more belongings at discharge than when I was admitted.

It was simply encouraging.

That someone would come.

That we could exchange even a few words.

There was no calculation there only intention.

I felt grateful.

——

The day of discharge.

A friend helped carry my belongings.

The outside air for the first time in eleven days.

The wind.

The light.

Even in the middle of the city it felt enough to make me stop in place.

——

For a while I will continue with regular checkups.

My daily life and eating habits will need adjustment.

I want to avoid a recurrence.

If things were to take a turn it would likely mean another form of treatment.

——

And yet it does not feel heavy.

I believe things will be alright.

And even if they are not there is a part of me that feels that too will be alright.