i find myself measuring my expectations of this n.z appointment against my experiences in the u.s. surely it is slicker there, if slick is actually to be desired in a colonoscopy, i don't know - but i remember it was quite low key. i called to make an appointment that suited my schedule and my prep was simply to drain myself of all obstructions, on the day, with a nice little lemon drink that i picked up from my local pharmacy. it is quite a different matter here. after a referral from my doctor, and a few prodding calls, the clinic wrote to me to suggest an appointment 6 months hence. "oh, but my doctor believes i am an urgent case," i said, "with my family history of 'death from colon cancer' etc, i surely rate a closer appointment."
"i'm afraid not. you have been judged by a team of specialists who will be happy to see you in 6 months - um - valentine's day." her voice brightened... i suspect she has an ardent lover who will treat her well on february 14th. meanwhile, i reconciled myself to the 6 month wait.
last wednesday i received a package from the clinic with some pills and a powdered drink sachet. this came with a friendly letter instructing me on the do's and dont's; in's and out's (if you'll allow)- along with a date change.
i admit to flutters and jitters. i've experienced those since my first procedure in 2000, about a year after my mumma died. i can't help but imagine her sitting in the waiting room, comforting herself that it would all be just fine. not for a moment believing that she would walk out of the clinic with a death sentence. on wednesday, i'll be sitting in that very same clinic waiting room - thinking about my mumma.
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