From struggling with constant noise and pain to finding solace in gaming, this journey of discovery led to not just a new hobby, but also lasting friendships and unforgettable moments.
The Reddit user niles_thebutler_ has struck a nerve in the Gaming subreddit after sharing his heartfelt story about coping with an illness through the newly found medium of gaming. His story, published on New Year's Eve, has garnered great interest and has been further extended and unfolded in the comments, including a story about his loved one.
Going through Hell
For over 20 years, niles_thebutler_ was able to ignore the constant ringing in his ears caused by tinnitus. However, things took a turn for the worse when he developed a tumor that destroyed most of his inner ear. In a desperate bid to save his life, doctors had no choice but to remove the majority of his inner ear, leaving him with an unrelenting ringing sound. The once manageable noise grew louder, unbearable at times – whether in a crowded stadium or standing in front of his barking dog, the only sound he could hear was the piercing ringing. He knew something had to change.
So this year was the worst year of my life, needing two life saving surgeries and being left with extremely debilitating tinnitus as a result, but gaming saved my life and ended with the best Xmas ever. Continued in comments. by u/niles_thebutler_ in gaming
Finding the silver lining
Amidst his struggle, niles_thebutler_ stumbled upon a game that would offer him a much-needed distraction during his 10-week recovery: Helldivers. Not much of a gamer before, he quickly saw the opportunity for escape and bought a PS5 along with the shooter. And there it was – a perfect distraction from the relentless ringing, offering him hours of respite, fun, and a new hobby to embrace.
As he immersed himself in this newfound interest, he began to rediscover joy in life, encouraged and supported by his fiancée. Christmas 2024 brought with it yet another surprise. His partner, knowing how much gaming had come to mean to him, decided to gift him a collection of Xbox games. The PlayStation user recognized the thoughtful gesture and expressed his thanks. But the true surprise awaited him in the gaming room: an 85-inch TV, a PlayStation Portal, an Xbox Series X, and a Samsung Q990D soundbar.
Gamers from all over the world have shown their support by sharing their own stories in the comments, and thanks to his new passion for gaming, niles_thebutler_ has found a community of friends beyond the screen.
How about you? Have you ever found a surprising source of comfort or distraction in a new hobby, or perhaps gaming helped you through tough times?