The Surprising Thing You Can Do to Feel Better in a Hospital

Quick read! SAVE ME FOR LATER

Thanks for going on this journey with me. Please consider sharing it with someone you think would resonate with this kind of writing.

It’s intended to be both memoir and a practical tool to help folks who might be going through something similar or those caregivers and family supporting someone with a challenging diagnosis. I hope to include excerpts here as I write. NOTE: This is not intended to replace actual medical guidance. Please consult your doctors on your individual challenges and situations. Also names have been changed for most of my medical staff.

Remember to brush your teeth.

This is your reminder, in the hospital, you are still in charge of your teeth. It’s something you control, and it will make you feel refreshed. Just ask your nurse or clinical partner for help if you can’t walk or have mobility issues. 

And honestly, I rarely had a medical professional urge me to take care of my teeth despite being there over a month. You have to do this part all on your own.

Before bed, it’s nice to have rituals in the hospital. It settles the mind. 

I found brushing my teeth made me feel world’s better. You can’t change what’s happening to your organs at that moment, but you can freshen your breath. Even just 5% happier in the moment counts for something. And that’s 5% happier in the morning and at night. The mint in my mouth and the glide of plaque free gums was a glory in the maelstrom. 

Flossing, you can skip, but don’t tell my dentist.

Thank you to Richard Burwick, MD for your founding level donation! You not only supported the team saving my life, you’re amazingly supportive of my writing.