August 17, 2025
In my last post, just a week before my departure from Japan, I wrote how I had never been sick or to the clinic during a whole year abroad.
Little did I know...
What happened?
Just three days after that post I went on a goodbye meet with my friend and his girlfriend. We went to the ROUND1 and I fell backwards there, with my wrist taking all the impact. My hand swelled comically, so my friends took me to the nearest clinic where, after filling one page of paperwork describing my symptoms and allergies, I took two X-rays.
Broken wrist in my non-dominant hand. The first broken bone in my life.
Fortunately, the operation wasn't needed as the fracture wasn't too severe and the bone hadn't moved (excuse my lack of proper medical terms). I got the splint and paid 7000¥ for everything—consultation, X-rays and splint. The whole visit last less than one hour.
But then, the issue arose. I was supposed to spend 3 months in Korea, two of them volunteering in a meditation retreat. I already had a ferry ticket, as well as hostels paid for... what now?! And I was leaving the country in just four days!
I am still traveling!
A broken bone couldn't possibly stop me, right?
First, I bought a suitcase. I have traveled with only my backpack for one year, but I would be delusional to continue that. It's hard to pack and wear it with one hand, and the strain on the body is noticeable, especially in the summer heat.
Second, I made sure to message all my hostels and ask for a lower bunk bed. Funny enough, only one from the hostels responded positively to my request. The other two either ignored me or told me I cannot choose the bed and should "just arrive early". Great!
Third, I had to address the volunteering opportunity I was supposed to be undertaking pretty soon. After exchanging messages we agreed that I just cannot contribute in a condition I am now, since the work was quite physical. Well, that's life!
Other than that, there are just expected annoyances. It's hard to shower, hard to eat some things, hard to open some containers. I do not cook at all and only rely on dining out (very cheap in Korea!) or ready meals. I cannot take my photos and using an umbrella means I have a tough time checking the route on my phone.
Everything is doable. Just a little bit hard
I had to admit that during the first two days after the injury, my morale was low. I realized just how much I use my non-dominant hand in a daily life. The things I had to take care of before departure started to pile up. My way-too-nervous parents only added me worries, urging me to come back home. My hand hurt a lot during first days, making it hard to sleep and move.
During a solitary walk one evening, blaming myself for a stupid fall, the tears of frustration started prickling my eyes. But then I slapped myself and started to rationalize my situation. It would be annoying no matter where I am. Going back wouldn't magically help me with healing, showering or anything, really. If anything, I'd sulk even more if I returned home too soon.
So I decided to go on like that.
Now...
It's been two weeks now and I do not regret my decision. Living with splint is... annoying... but I'm currently preparing for my third and final city in Korea.
Most of the pain and swelling is gone, but I won't be able to use my left hand for the next four or so weeks. Daily life activities have gotten easier.
Although I will return to Poland sooner than I originally planned, I'm glad I decided to overcome this obstacle. Really, in comparison, phone calls seem so easy now, haha (please don't call me, though)!