Tuesday, May 08, 2007

Will You Bring Me Flowers...?


Dutch Roses
Originally uploaded by Geraldine Curtis.
Friday 4th May

I didn't really know what to expect on my first visit to a private hospital. Perhaps large cheery bouquets of flowers dotted about and subtle canned music? No, quite a few receptionists, lots of corridors and consulting rooms, that's about all and all on one level which seemed odd. Got there just on time, even though I'd attempted to be early. Filled in a sheet of 'personal details' and ticked the box to say that I'd pay - having answered 'no' to the question: "Do you have medical insurance"? (Isn't there a Monty Python sketch, the one...you're not allowed to *** unless you pay...?) Form completed, I got to play a Goldilocks and the Three Bears game... The waiting room was decked out with all manner of different sized chairs. One continuous padded bench against the window (like a pub), then lots of different sized chairs and ones that didn't match the colour scheme of red (blood red- appropriate I suppose for a hospital) in the centre. There was even a daddy sized chair...well it was enormous, I couldn't help but think of the size of rear end you'd need to have to fit it. Perhaps they cater for Americans? Anyway, after a five minute wait, (I'd assumed wrongly that everything would be on time) the surgeon collected me from the waiting area, I thought he'd have a secretary to do that... Mr Lingham was lovely (he is highly recommended, but you always have to meet someone yourself to be convinced, I think) Filled in a few more forms, (consent form comes with my own copy) very brief examination ( hope he appreciated new M&S knickers) and then came the ultimate question; " When do you want it done? As soon as possible, please" to which he took me at my word and said he'd had a cancellation for next Tuesday 8th (I told Graham I'd get myself fixed before he got back!!) Perhaps just a little too soon. We agreed on the following Tuesday 15th and as I post this part of my blog I'm thinking: "This time next week, it will all be over..."

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