It’s been a week now, and if anyone asked me whether I’d do it again, my answer would still be no. This hasn’t been easy—far from it. It’s not for the weak. Now that I understand what it truly involves, part of me thinks I would’ve left things alone. Those thoughts surface, then pass. What doesn’t fade is the awe.
The science behind modern medicine is incredible—truly amazing. It’s a powerful reminder of what educated doctors, nurses, and medical caretakers can accomplish when knowledge is paired with compassion. Without them, I wouldn’t be here. That’s not poetic—it’s fact.
I did not do this alone. I could not have survived without someone else’s education, training, and commitment to their craft. This experience made one truth unmistakably clear: we live because we depend on one another. We heal because people dedicate their lives to learning, to service, and to helping others when they cannot help themselves.
We need science. We need education. And healing has no nationality, no accent, no label. Every medical professional who cared for me shared one purpose—to make me better. That is something worth protecting and celebrating.
This past week also gave me a deeper respect for what healthcare providers endure every single day. The responsibility, the pressure, the emotional weight—yet they continue to show up with focus, professionalism, and humanity. That reality gives me hope.
My head isn’t under a rock. I see the world, and the world sees too. I see the challenges. But I also see what’s possible when science, education, and compassion work together.
I am alive today because someone took the time to educate themselves—and then followed through on that education with skill, purpose, and care.
I’m here today because people chose knowledge over ignorance, care over fear, and hope over indifference—and that will never be lost on me.
Til next time and hopefully with a camera in hand.
Kathleen Jennette
Thunkin The Thoughts
15 responses to “One Week Later: Gratitude, Science, and the Strength of Others”
Praying that God’s hand is on you and your caregivers all along the recovery process.
May you continue to recover well. Your thoughts are clearly deeply felt and so needed in today’s world which no longer seems to value expertise above crack pot theories. (Looking at several of your so-called politicians there, and we have some who aren’t much better too).
I can’t agree with you more. We are certainly an embarrassment to the world. Its awful to ignore facts and listen to lies as if truth. It is just so ignornant. I am hopeful it stops soon.
Praying that you have a smooth and steady recovery. Just take it one day at a time x
Thank you Deborah. One day is about as good as it gets.
I hope you continue to recover!!
Thanks so much Nora. I am hoping it doesn’t take so long to life the camera. Just walking right now is an effort. Thank you for your words of support!
It took your sheer determination to survive as well. Now you see why they call it :your “care team.” I learned all of this back in August…out of nowhere. Never had a major surgery in my life, never gave birth, never been in a hospital. We are official members of the “9 inch” club now. We are SURVIVORS. I need a kleenex now, you made me cry. I still cry even describing it. Wish I was closer and could give you a hug. We are both so lucky to be alive! I’m so proud of you, after being so worried. I knew you’d make it, and GET IT.
Congratulations on your reccovery also. I don’t know how I would have done it without support. Hugs to you!
This is a well-written and richly deserved tribute to the medical professionals involved with your care and the care of others. I hope you’re feeling better. Take care, Kathleen Jennette. 🙂
They all were so great Nancy. Thank you.
Wow Kathleen, I am so glad that you are okay! Are the photos of you? Be well. 🙏🏻
Yes.Thanks John. They were taken from the cell phone.
What a hurdle you’ve leapt, KJ. A sobering look at life, for sure. Wishing you a very speedy recovery. 🙏🏼
Thank you Eliza