How I began Healing on My Own Terms

Dear Healing Woman,

I never imagined I’d be here — writing about wound care, dressing changes, and embracing your own health care. But here I am. And if you’ve found this page, perhaps you’re walking your own path to making your self as whole again as possible.

After a jarring first experience with home health care after a major and defining surgery and a deep desire to feel safe, clean, and in control, I made the decision to begin changing my own wound vac dressing. My doctor supported it. I had the supplies. What I didn’t yet have was complete and total confidence.  

But something shifted when I realized this wasn’t just about medicine. It was about reclaiming a sense of power during a season where so much felt out of my hands. 

So, I created a comfortable space in my home for each dressing change— that was as sterile as I could possibly create to take charge  and accomplish things that I would have never imagined a year ago.  Cleansed hands, fresh disposable gloves, sterile tools and supplies.  This would be my ritual for three times a week for two weeks. Not rushed. Not clinical. Not overly painful.  Just me, my husband and the task of tending to something special: my own body.

This space is where I’ll share quiet reflections from that journey. The journey of navigating healing your body during a vulnerable, painful season.  Not medical advice, not instructions — just one woman’s experience.  My experience.

You may be here because you’re curious. Or scared. Or exhausted. 

I understand.

I hope these writings bring you a little peace, a little strength, or simply a moment of stillness when you need it.

— With warmth,

Quinnie Janet

 

I’ve chosen to keep most of these entries without images. When a moment truly calls for one, I’ll include it — but often, the words are enough.

 


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