Life in Progress Diaries

Hydration, Hospitals, and Humbling Moments in Busan

This week didn’t exactly stick to the script. I had big plans to post on Wednesday about my hydration goals—you know, sipping water like a pro, feeling refreshed, and glowing from the inside out. But then a Colitis flare-up came crashing in, and suddenly my week wasn’t about hitting goals, but about just getting through the days.

Even Friday’s blog post, which I was so excited to write, went straight down the drain along with most of my energy. Between battling symptoms, sleeping most of the day away, and navigating my first hospital visit in Busan, it’s safe to say this week turned into a lesson in flexibility, self-compassion, and rolling with the punches.

Hydration Goals: A Work in Progress

Let’s start with hydration—my big goal for the week. I had such high hopes to knock it out of the park, imagining myself gracefully refilling my water bottle and feeling like I had my life together. Spoiler alert: that didn’t happen.

Most of my time was spent either sleeping or dealing with the joys of a flare-up, so I didn’t drink as much as I wanted—probably even less than usual, if I’m honest. But I did manage some small wins. I pulled out my super exciting big water bottle (yes, the little things in life bring me joy) and sipped on it whenever I could. I also made some bone broth, which was a game-changer. It soothed my stomach and helped me get a good night’s sleep (a miracle after the week I’d had).

While I didn’t smash my hydration goals this week, I’m reminding myself that hydration is a lifelong habit, not a one-and-done challenge. Baby steps still count, and there’s always next week.

My First Hospital Visit in Busan: Lost, Found, and Grateful

Mid-flare, I had my first experience navigating a hospital in Busan, which was… an adventure. I wasn’t given an appointment letter—just a time—which I didn’t realize until I was awkwardly standing in the entryway of the hospital, wondering where on earth to go.

Eventually, I had the bright idea to message Nurse David from the hospital’s international health center (shoutout to him!) to ask for directions. Fast forward to me wandering around like a lost tourist, trying to follow his instructions—yes, even after he’d given me guidance, I still managed to get my self lost- multiple times.

After what felt like a mini marathon and finally finding my friend, things got smoother. The doctor and nurse were incredibly kind and efficient, quickly booking me in for an endoscopy next week to make sure everything’s under control before I fly home to England. Their care and attention made all the difference, even in the middle of a stressful day.

I was also beyond grateful to have a Korean friend who could help with registering at the new hospital and managing translation needs. Moments like this remind me how important it is to have a support system, especially when you’re living in a foreign country.

A Quick Note on Ulcerative Colitis

For those who don’t know, Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a chronic condition I live with that causes inflammation in the colon. Flare-ups like this one are unpredictable, painful, and—frankly—exhausting. There’s so much more I could say about UC: what it’s like to live with it, how I manage it day-to-day, and the lessons it’s taught me. But I think that deserves its own post. So, if you’re curious or if you’re someone who also lives with UC, stay tuned—there’s a lot I’d love to share soon.

Looking Ahead: The Week to Come

If I’m being honest, this week left me feeling pretty upset. I was frustrated with my body, anxious about flying home, and disappointed I couldn’t stick to my goals. But progress isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, even when your “best” is just getting through the day.

For next week, my goals are simple:

1. Get through my endoscopy (Remind me, why did I opt to be awake for it?).
2. Pack for my trip home to England (and fly home, of course).
3. Keep working on hydration—small sips, one bottle at a time.

That’s it. No grand plans, just the basics.

Patience and Progress

This week reminded me that wellness isn’t about sticking to a perfect routine. It’s about adapting when life throws you curveballs (or, in my case, a colitis flare-up) and celebrating the small wins—like sipping bone broth or finding your way through a confusing hospital.

One thing I’ve been reflecting on lately is how much I want to document my journey more fully—not just with words, but with photos and videos that capture my day-to-day life in Korea. From coffee shops to restaurants to exploring new places, there’s so much I want to share, but my current phone is hanging on by a thread. (Seriously, it’s a miracle I made it to the hospital and back!)

Once I finally get a new phone, I’m excited to take you along with me—showing more of my life here in Korea, the beautiful spots I discover, and the ups and downs of this journey. For now, though, I’m doing what I can with what I’ve got, and I’m grateful for the chance to share my story in any way possible.

Here’s to next week: calming the flare-up, more hydration, and the courage to keep moving forward—one sip, one step, and one moment at a time.