Let not your heart be troubled

It all started in July 2014 when I was attending a regional ISCF conference in Guyana. While I was walking to bible study one morning, I started getting a pain in my lower back. By the time I got to the bible study, the pain became unbearable and I had no clue what was causing it. When those in charge saw the pain I was in, they took me to the nearest health center where I was given a pain killer and advised to do an ultrasound. The ultrasound showed that I had four fibroids, but my doctor was not convinced they were the cause of my pain. I was advised to always have painkillers on hand in case the pain ever returned, but I never had to use them.

Then in March 2015 while in Grenada, I experienced another bout of pain in the middle of the night and had to be rushed to the hospital. Again, painkillers were administered and an ultrasound was ordered. This time, my kidney appeared to be enlarged, and upon further investigation, it was determined that I had kidney stones. I was instructed to increase my water intake and again to ensure that I had painkillers available. Those who know me could not understand that diagnosis, since I am constantly drinking water during the day.

Upon my return to Trinidad in October 2015, my doctor did a full medical, and after more tests and a visit to a specialist, it became clear that the two incidents were connected. The specialist determined that the largest of the fibroids is pressing on my kidney, restricted the flow of urine through my ureter, leading to a build up of calcium deposits which eventually develop into kidney stones. Because of the pressure on my kidney, he advised that the fibroids be removed.

I decided to do this surgery at Point Fortin Area hospital for a couple reasons:
1. I could have the surgery done for free instead of paying $30,000 to do it privately
2. The waiting period there would be significantly less than at the bigger hospitals
3. My surgeon, Dr. Pierre, comes highly recommended

Throughout this entire journey, I have seen God's faithfulness and provision:

• The pains I experienced were pretty excruciating, and came on suddenly. I thank God that, on both occasions, there were persons around who were able to take me to the necessary medical facilities for treatment, especially since on both occasions I was not in Trinidad
• Except for the tests and the cost of the specialist, all the other treatments were free of charge for me. I am so thankful for my doctor for being such a great support to me during this entire process
• Apart from the incidents recorded above, at no other time did I experience pain
• The two pints of blood I needed for the surgery was readily provided
• I was given the option to select the date for my surgery so I chose a date that was convenient for me
• When I went to the hospital last Friday for my screening, the head nurse was very friendly and helpful when she recognised me as the person who had read the eulogy at her sister's funeral (her sister was my accounts teacher) I feel very comfortable knowing that she will be looking out for me while I am at the hospital

In the midst of the horror stories in the news about the experiences some people have had at public hospitals in Trinidad and Tobago, and having heard the risks involved with my surgery, I am at peace, because I know that God is in control. Please pray for a successful procedure, for help to endure the post-surgery pain, and for a meaningful use of my time during recovery.

Psalm 100:5 - For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations