Check-up report

Good news. I had my check-up in NYC two weeks ago. At this point it’s always so weird to walk into that hospital. I remember the very first time I had to get scans, when I thought it was just some annoying bump on my leg. Everything in the hospital was so foreign and finding my way around so confusing. I remember thinking “I don’t ever want this to become routine.” But, of course, now it is.

I walk through the doors on 67th street and the anxiety starts racing I know I feel good, but what if.... I walk past the patient billing department and hope the approval for x-rays and a visit came through from my insurance, even though I didn’t double check. I hope I didn’t just waste a flight across the country for nothing. Walk through the elevator doors to Radiology on the second floor. Show them my MSKCC ID, get a locker key, and change into the awkward gown. Sit under the x-ray machine and pray that the scans show my leg is all clear, even though it’s probably too late to pray at that point. On the bed under that machine I turn to each next position before the radiologist even finishes her instruction because I know what comes next. I get changed and go up to the 5th floor to the doctor suites. And wait. And wait.

I’m so used to the steps of it all, but that doesn’t mean my emotions are any calmer from the routine. They run crazy until the resident comes in and says (blessedly), “the x-rays look great.” RELIEEEEEF!

Dr. Healey didn’t have a bow-tie on this time. That’s different. He’s still a sweety, though. I have so much to thank him for every moment of my life. It's a weird relationship to have with someone you don’t share more than a few sentences with each year. And I got all the news I was hoping to hear: 1. No cancer 2. Bone looks strong and continues to heal well 3. I can start coming for check-ups on an annual basis instead of every six months. YAY!

Of course, this, sadly, will cut my Walking & Wine Salon time with Matt in half. And offer fewer wonderful dinners and conversations with the Botts like I got to enjoy this time around. But I’ll definitely take fewer check-ups. Maybe Brian and I could fly back JUST FOR FUN for once!