In the 1980s there was a young professional wrestler named Mike Von Erich. On an overseas tour with his brothers, he developed toxic shock syndrome. After a long hospital stay, he was released, but he was never the same again physically or mentally.
On November 1, I was taken to the hospital for cellulitis. My body became septic trying to fight the condition. I remained at Regional One for 19 days. They released me, but like MVE I fear I may never be the same again.
I’ve already had to go back to the hospital for 3 additional days.
My swollen left foot hurts except when my shoes are off and lying in bed.
I’m constantly nervous and anxious.
And I’m staying in a homeless shelter, where I still have to follow the rules – sit still in chapel 1-2 hours a day, keep my shoes on, shower every day.
I promise I won’t do what Mike did. (He killed himself in 1987.)
But I worry I’ll never be the same physically or mentally and it scares me to death.
I need my friends. I need the people who love me.
paul.ryburn@gmail.com