a sunny hospital corridor…
I had no idea what to expect at yesterday’s hospital appointment.
I mean, they had already written me off, hadn’t they? Too old, too frail, not fit enough for surgery…
All of my misgivings magically vanished the minute the doctor welcomed me into his office. He was a short, cheerful man, reminding me of a cheeky schoolboy. He explained that he had been on duty when I had been admitted to the hospital last year, after my first collapse. And when he came across my name recently with all of my latest problems, he wondered why my spinal problem hadn’t been treated.
He proceeded to check the strength in my legs and my reflexes. He asked a million questions about my health, including the aneurysm in my head. I wanted to ask questions myself, mainly about the other aneurysms, but he made it clear that he wanted to help with the spinal problems, as there was no way I could regain all my strength until my spine healed.
He was kind and helpful, and determined to sort me out, organising an appointment with the Pain Clinic. Something that should have happened last year.
Although I was by now elated, I wouldn’t be able to leave without asking the one question I desperately needed answered. So, I crossed my fingers and asked. “How long do I have before the aneurysms explode?”
He smiled, and it was a smile I will remember for a long time. I didn’t have a clue what kind of smile it was. Was it one of those sad smiles, usually reserved for bad news?
“Actually, I don’t foresee that happening in your lifetime…”
He went on to explain that the aneurysms were slow-growing, and providing I didn’t exert myself unduly, they would not misbehave.
I could have kissed him, but had to make do with one of the best handshakes ever…
***
Trouble is, I am having trouble thinking properly today.
From a head full of sad, insurmountable problems, to one filled with possible joy and happiness, I am dizzy with possibilities…
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