By Rex Catubig

 

HOW folks address me is a dead giveaway.

I was called Kuya during the times of my holiday vacations from the US. When I retired and came back home, I was invariably called Uncle. But four years into retirement, I had become Tatay. I dread the day I would be called ‘Lo–in past tense.

But the descent into the abyss of aging is fast and progressive. During my latest doctor’s visit, the clinical assistant noted that I have lost weight, around 10 pounds since my first appointment 2 years ago–before the pandemic.

I did not contract Covid but I was really sick. I had symptoms that mimicked Covid:  had relentless unproductive cough, and lost my appetite due to the meds I was taking.

I recovered in time for my birthday but in less than a year, my bad knee finally gave in. After x rays, the ortho doctors confirmed osteo arthritis. Not exactly life threatening but threatened my gallivanting days.

That was my right knee. Soon after, as if craving for attention, my left buttock down the leg and foot began throwing vengeful tantrum. I was clueless what it was. Then I found the snobbish name. It was immobilizing and painful sciatica.
The ordeal took me far and wide in search of relief, however temporary. Put my faith in all types of folk hilots, tried herb and oil patches, scoured YouTube for DIY exercises, had chats with pain specialist and physio therapist friends overseas–all the way from New York and Dubai. Even bought a Teeter from Lazada.

Well, the sciatica lives on.  But I have learned to adapt and live with both ailment.

Until a couple of days ago, another aging challenge reared its ugly head.

Starting out as urgency in peeing, it became frequent and ended with what I could only liken to the scene in the movie The Ten Commandments where the clear flowing water of the river Nile turned into the vivid color of blood. Epic.

I am way past puberty and obviously past menopause. So, menstruation is easily ruled out. And yes, like it or not, I am a man.

My doctor says the ooze is coming from either the bladder or kidney. Susmaryosep!

Whatever it is that’s ailing me now, one thing is certain, aging is fast catching up with me with its unwelcome rewards.

“Ingat kayo, Tatay“.

This senior in denial, better take heed.

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