In the quiet moments of caring for Muji, I have noticed something that has quietly persisted for about two months, her cough. It’s not an ordinary cough but a gentle, persistent clearing of her throat, a way she manages the saliva that loves to pool and linger where it should not. This little detail spoke volumes to me about her struggle.
With Muji’s delicate health, every symptom feels like a message from her body, whispering about what might be unsettled within. Alongside the cough, she sometimes holds her urine and experiences bloating, puzzling us as caregivers who want nothing but ease for her. After consulting with her nurse, dietitian, and physiotherapist, our next step was to seek guidance from the GP.
Seeking Answers Through Care and Faith
The tests came back with no chest infection, but the blood results showed a higher white blood cell count, a sign that the body’s defenses were active, signaling inflammation. The GP gave us the choice to either start antibiotics or go to Fiona Stanley Hospital (FSH) for deeper investigation.
Our visit to FSH was a day of patience, waiting in the emergency room, seeking clarity. New tests, X-rays, and CT scans followed. Despite her brave spirit and persistent symptoms, her chest was clear, her breathing steady, and urine tests clean. The white blood cells began to fall, and she was sent home with the weight of uncertainty gently lifted, at least for now.
Understanding Muji’s Cough and Health Challenges
Reflecting on Muji’s cough, I have come to understand it as part of her body’s way of coping, often linked to saliva pooling in her throat. Such pooling is common in conditions like reflux or postnasal drip, where the throat is irritated by stomach acid or mucus from the nose. This irritation leads to the need to clear the throat, a cycle that can be relentless but is Muji’s way of seeking relief.
Embracing Patience Through Islamic Teachings
Insha’Allah, we seek patience and strength through every step. Islamic spiritual meditative practices such as dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and listening to Quranic recitation have long been known for their therapeutic and calming effects. These sacred moments help reduce stress and promote resilience, supporting both caregiver and patient during health challenges.
Our journey with Muji reminds me of the wisdom in the Quran:
"And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient"(Quran 2:155). Patience (Sabr) through trials like these is both a physical and spiritual practice, nurturing hope even when answers are slow to come.
Caregiving as a Form of Worship
In caregiving, dua and reflection are my refuge. Invoking Allah’s mercy throughout the day helps renew my intention (niyyah), transforming care into worship (ibadah). This spiritual lens reframes hardship as a test from Allah, reminding us,
"No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim... but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that"(Hadith, Sahih Bukhari).
Practical Tips for Caregivers Managing Complex Disabilities
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Stay Vigilant and Coordinated: Work closely with your healthcare team, nurses, dietitians, therapists for comprehensive support.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a symptom diary, noting changes in cough, digestion, urine habits, and mood.
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Practice Patience and Mindfulness: Engage in daily dhikr or Quran recitation to reduce stress and foster inner peace.
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Seek and Accept Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to community support or professionals when overwhelmed.
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Document and Share: Share experiences like this blog to support and connect with other caregivers.
Invitation to Share and Reflect
If you’re a caregiver or family member in a similar journey, I invite you to share your reflections and coping strategies in the comments or on social media. Together, we can create a community rooted in faith, patience, and love.
Stay Blessed, until we share light again.
Nur/Muji's mum
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