We even saw a 50-something-year-old woman in the waiting room wearing a lovely outfit accented with Raven sneakers. I actually knew what these colors meant and was pleased I could chat with the locals. The second thing that was quite apparent to us was that men who accompany their ladies to doctor appointments inevitably have to the carry the "Mary Poppins" handbag. In the elevator, a gentleman sported a bright purple hobo bag. Waiting for the elevator, an older man in a plaid shirt carried a quilted Vera Bradley bag on his right shoulder. Another, in the checkout line, was swinging an imitation black leather bag with gold handles. The message here, ladies: if you are going to have your man carry your bag, make sure it matches his ensemble as well as your own.
Once processed, we went right in and met with the Doc. Our discussion was focused on the upcoming Pitt Evaluation. He made the point that I don't need to convince the team that I need lungs. I need to show them that I can do what it takes to be part of the challenge, physically and emotionally. This is not new advice. Living with a chronic illness always keeps you on the search, for healing, the cure, the answer. If I could eat right, de-stress, exercise.....I could be well. You read the stories. Some do it. I've been more determined at some times than others. Now, this time...can I do it? In these past weeks, I should've been working as if preparing for a marathon, but I've just been tired and uncertain. Time and again, I've tried the "do's" and nothing's worked. It's hard not to be discouraged.
I will try to do the things the Doc has suggested. We didn't need to drive all the way to Hopkins for this 20-minute conversation, but I got some face time with Chelsea, enjoyed the enthusiasm of Raven fans, and watching the things loved ones do for each other.
PS: Still working on the O2 dilemma.
