Profane Medicine
Six months ago the doctor told my father to get a follow-up appointment in October. The doctor wanted to see him in July but apparently the appointment books for summer weren't open yet. I was told to return around the beginning of June to have the appointment moved up. First internalized outburst of profanity. In January they could give me an appointment for October but not for closer-in-time July? This morning I take out the papers and try the phone number given on them. A computer gives me three choices. One, I can make an appointment for my local GP; two, I can cancel or move further along the calendar an existing appointment at the hospital; three, I can speak directly with a doctor or nurse; any other questions I should go to my local clinic. Second outburst of profanity, this time out loud and startling my cats. I have to make the trip. I arrive at the hospital. I don't even bother to look for a free parking space. I go directly into the half-empty parking garage. I ...