HOW RESILIENCE AND A SIMPLE DISCOVERY SAVED ME FROM SURGERY

By Jizal Seikali

Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges at us, and for me, one of those challenges came in the form of Fat Necrosis and Oil Cysts in my breast. These complications stemmed from the impact of the airbag that deployed during a car accident in 2017, a moment that set me on a journey I never anticipated. What I’ve learned along the way is something I’m compelled to share with you, my fellow women in dentistry, entrepreneurs, and beyond. It’s a story of resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of seeking alternative solutions.

A Journey Through Challenges

The car accident left me with injuries that I initially thought I could overcome quickly. But as the months turned into years, complications surfaced. By 2020, I underwent surgery to remove Fat Necrosis and Oil Cysts, hoping it would mark the end of that chapter. Unfortunately, by 2024, the cysts began to return, bringing with them not only physical discomfort but also the emotional toll of potentially needing another surgery.

I spent many sleepless nights worrying about the possibility of going through another surgery. The idea of enduring the pain, long recovery, and the disruption to my professional and personal life was overwhelming. Despite my fears, I knew I had to explore alternative options that might lead to a solution. I also reflected on how these challenges were shaping my perspective on health, resilience, and innovation.

A Tiktok Revelation

Sometimes, answers come from the most unexpected places. In this case, my sister stumbled across something on TikTok that would change everything for me: Hydrocolloid Dressings. At first, I was skeptical. Could something so seemingly simple hold the answer to my problem? But as I dug deeper, I learned that Hydrocolloid Dressings are designed to absorb exudate—a mass of cells and fluid that seeps out of blood vessels—and form a hydrated gel over the affected area, promoting healing.

Encouraged by my sister and armed with cautious optimism, I decided to give it a try. For over a month, I used the dressings faithfully, following all instructions. The results were nothing short of miraculous. When I went in for an ultrasound, the results confirmed what I had hoped for: the cysts were no longer visible. The relief I felt was indescribable, and I was overjoyed to have avoided the pain and uncertainty of another surgery. This simple solution gave me a renewed sense of agency over my health and a deeper appreciation for exploring unconventional remedies.

Lessons Learned

This experience taught me several valuable lessons, and I’m eager to share them with you:

Empower Yourself with Knowledge: While doctors are invaluable in guiding us, sometimes additional research and exploration can uncover solutions that complement medical advice.

Be Open to Alternatives: It’s easy to dismiss something that seems too simple or unconventional. But as I’ve learned, alternative solutions like Hydrocolloid Dressings can sometimes work wonders.

Resilience Pays Off: Navigating health challenges can be exhausting, but perseverance and a willingness to explore new avenues can make all the difference.

Value Support Networks: Whether it’s family, friends, or professional communities like DeW, having a strong support system is crucial for overcoming life’s challenges.

Sharing To Empower

When I shared my story with my peers in the Dental Entrepreneurial Women (DeW) group during a recent Zoom meeting, their reactions reaffirmed the importance of speaking out. Up until that point, I had been hesitant to share my struggles. Although Fat Necrosis is benign and has different stages, I didn’t want to inadvertently insult any of the women in our group who have had to deal with breast cancer. Their encouragement to share my experience more widely reminded me that our stories can resonate in unexpected ways and provide support to others who may be quietly facing similar struggles.

It was a reminder that our stories hold power—power to inspire, educate, and uplift. Sharing openly also helped me process my own journey, transforming vulnerability into strength and action.

For me, this journey was about more than just finding a solution. It was about reclaiming my agency, finding strength in the face of adversity, and realizing that surgery isn’t always the only answer. My hope is that this story will resonate with anyone navigating their own challenges and looking for a way forward.

The Role Of Community In Healing

One of the most profound aspects of this experience was realizing how much strength I drew from my community. The women in the DeW group reminded me that vulnerability is not a weakness but a bridge to connection. Through their support, I was able to confront my fears and find the courage to share my story. This connection is a reminder that our collective experiences create a tapestry of resilience and hope.

Additionally, my sister’s discovery on TikTok underscores the importance of staying curious and open to new information. Social media often gets a bad reputation for spreading misinformation, but in this case, it served as a lifeline. This experience has inspired me to approach every challenge with an open mind and a determination to seek solutions wherever they may be found. It also reinforced the value of sharing these findings within a trusted circle to amplify their impact.

A Message To My Fellow Women

To my fellow women in dentistry, entrepreneurship, and life: remember that resilience is a skill we build with every challenge we overcome. Whether it’s in our personal lives, our businesses, or our health, our capacity to persevere is what shapes us into leaders and innovators.

If you’re facing a difficult situation, know that you are not alone. Seek out knowledge, lean on your community, and never underestimate the power of sharing your story. Sometimes, the solutions we need are closer than we think.

Looking Ahead

As I reflect on this journey, I’m filled with gratitude—for the unexpected discoveries, the unwavering support of my community, and the resilience that kept me going. This experience has not only healed my physical health but also deepened my understanding of what it means to navigate challenges with grace and determination.

For anyone reading this who might be struggling with their own obstacles, I want you to know that there is always hope. Whether it’s finding a new treatment, leaning on your loved ones, or sharing your story, every step forward brings you closer to a brighter future. I’ve also gained a renewed passion for exploring ways to improve how communities, like DeW and DenTemp, can support women in balancing health, work, and personal growth.

About the Author

Jizal Seikali is the founder and CEO of DenTemp, a B2B SaaS platform connecting dental offices with qualified professionals. With nearly two decades of dental experience, she has dedicated her career to addressing the unique challenges of dental staffing and creating opportunities for professionals in the industry. DenTemp is more than a platform; it’s a growing community focused on fostering collaboration, innovation, and growth within dentistry. Inspired by organizations like DeW, Jizal aims to build a supportive network where dental professionals can connect, share, and thrive together. She is committed to empowering women in dentistry by providing resources, mentorship opportunities, and a sense of belonging through her work. Outside of her professional endeavors, Jizal is an advocate for resilience and empowerment, encouraging others to pursue their passions and embrace the power of community. Connect with her on Instagram @dentemp_llc.