6 months ago, I started having back pain. Nothing major at first, just a dull ache. I ignored it, like we all do, thinking it would go away. It didn’t. It got worse. Sitting hurt, standing hurt, even lying down wasn’t a relief anymore.
Finally ended up having to get a surgery 2 weeks back, got discharged last week. The damage was too far gone for anything else to work. Now I’m recovering, and honestly it’s brutal. Every small movement reminds me how much I took my body for granted.
Everyone here is talking about CTC, FIRE, total compensation - fuck that shit, none of these matter if you aren't able to live a functional life. If you’re healthy right now, don’t waste it. Don’t ignore the signs your body gives you. Pain isn’t something to tough out or dismiss.
I’d give up everything: money, career, all of it - just to go back and take better care of myself before it got this bad. Take care of yourselves please.