The Summer that Killed My Momentum
– Raul Lopez –
Life’s unpredictable twists and turns often leave us unprepared for what lies ahead. In the latest episode of “How Do You Save Success in Spanglish?” host Raul Lopez takes listeners on an intimate journey through his personal health battles, the emotional toll on his family, and his return to podcasting. This Episode kickoffs Season Two, diving deep into the raw realities of facing severe medical emergencies and the path to recovery.
The story begins on July 7th with Raul experiencing severe stomach pain that rapidly escalates into a full-blown medical crisis. He recounts the initial confusion and anxiety of rushing to the ER, where doctors suspected a bowel obstruction possibly caused by scar tissue from a previous appendectomy. The chaos and fear of an emergency surgery are palpable as Raul describes the hurried phone call to his wife and the overwhelming uncertainty that loomed over him.
Following the first surgery, Raul’s relief is short-lived as he finds himself battling another bowel obstruction, necessitating further medical intervention. He vividly describes the excruciating discomfort of an NG tube, the physical pain, and the emotional strain on both him and his family. Balancing the responsibilities of work, family, and health becomes an almost insurmountable challenge. The importance of a cautious approach to recovery is highlighted as Raul emphasizes the slow and arduous journey back to normalcy.
Amidst these health crises, life continues to throw additional challenges at Raul. From his daughter’s illness to a series of domestic mishaps, each incident adds to the already heavy burden. Despite these setbacks, Raul’s excitement to return to podcasting and reconnect with his audience serves as a beacon of hope. He expresses deep gratitude for the unwavering support from his listeners during his hiatus, promising more engaging content, even if the road ahead is a bit rocky.
In the chapter “Surviving Life’s Unexpected Medical Emergency,” Raul provides a detailed account of the events that delayed the release of Season Two. He shares the onset of severe stomach pains and the rapid escalation that led to an emergency room visit. The suspected bowel obstruction and the subsequent emergency surgery are described with raw honesty, underscoring the unpredictability of life and the importance of taking health concerns seriously.
The next chapter, “Recovering From Repeated Medical Emergencies,” delves into the grueling process of dealing with an NG tube and subsequent surgeries. Raul recounts the relentless pain and discomfort, the initial relief post-surgery, and the disheartening recurrence of symptoms that led to another emergency surgery. The chapter captures the emotional and physical toll on Raul and his family, highlighting the support of loved ones and the slow road to recovery.
In “Struggling to Regain Momentum,” Raul offers a raw recount of his first week out of the hospital after the second surgery. He shares the constant fear of a relapse, the challenges of returning to a normal diet, and the added stress of his daughter’s illness. Domestic mishaps, including significant home repairs, further hinder his efforts to restart his podcast. Despite these challenges, Raul’s determination to regain momentum and continue his passion for podcasting shines through.
Finally, “Returning to Podcasting After a Break” reflects on Raul’s excitement to reconnect with his audience and the joy of seeing continued engagement with the podcast during his absence. He acknowledges the difficulties faced and the support received, expressing gratitude to everyone who stuck around. Raul ends on a hopeful note, looking forward to future episodes and teasing an upcoming lesson on how to say “success” in Spanish.
Raul’s journey is a testament to resilience, the strength of family support, and the power of determination. His story serves as an inspiration to anyone facing life’s unpredictable challenges, reminding us of the importance of health, the unwavering support of loved ones, and the relentless pursuit of one’s passions. As Raul continues to navigate the complexities of recovery and podcasting, his story encourages us to face our own hurdles with courage and hope.
