Eight months on...
Feels strange even writing that — because for a while there, everything was measured in weeks. Weeks post-op. Weeks until I could move properly. Weeks until I felt like myself again.
Now… I just feel normal. Almost.
If you’ve been following The Hernia Diaries, you’ll know it wasn’t completely smooth sailing. There was that lingering lump — the one that sticks in your head more than your body. The one that makes you wonder, “Is this right? Did it work?”
That’s finally settled.
It didn’t disappear overnight. It slowly faded, week by week, until one day I realised I hadn’t thought about it. And that’s probably the biggest milestone of all.
I’d say I’m sitting at about 92%.
Not perfect — but honestly, close enough that I’m back doing everything I want to do. Moving freely. Lifting. Playing with the kids without that constant background caution.
And maybe that last 8%?
It’s not just physical. It’s the mental side — trusting your body again. That takes a little longer.
If you’re earlier in the journey and reading this:
- The weird lumps can settle.
- The slow progress is still progress.
- Your body does come good — just not always on your timeline.
This whole thing taught me patience more than anything. And perspective.
Because when you get back to feeling almost normal…
you realise that “almost” is actually pretty great.
That’s probably it from me.
The final entry.
— But also, the start of not thinking about it anymore.
The Hernia Diaries: Sit-ups were a mistake.
About the Author:
Rob Allen is a graphic designer, dad of three under six, and unwilling hernia expert. When he’s not juggling deadlines or nappies, he’s writing The Hernia Diaries from the couch — one ice pack and stool softener at a time.
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