I don't know many people who like going to hospitals, either for themselves or to visit others. I do not, certainly. I have had the leisure to reaquaint myself with my dislike of hospitals this weekend as I have spent the better part of each weekend day visiting my mother, who has been hospitalized with a serious infection in the bone of her foot. Bone infections are very bad. I think, and more importantly her doctors seem to think, that she is going to be just fine and that no surgery will be required to remove any of the bone. This is a relief.
The thing about hospitals is that they are a self-contained 24 hour a day universe, with rules and social conventions unto themselves. I think that the 24 hour thing, plus the odd casino type lighting used, is one reason why you leave a visit to a hospital totally exhausted. I just spent a couple of hours each day this weekend and I am kind of thrashed. Still, easier for me than it is for my mother.
It was funny, while I had to wait in the hallway for a few minutes, to watch one of the new interns flirt with a pretty young nurse. One of my cousins just finished his residency and he told me a lot of stories concerning the sexual hijinks everyone got up to at his hospital. I gather that is common.
Posted by Random Penseur at August 8, 2004 04:38 PMRefuah Shelamah to your mother. I hope she is well and out of the hospital soon, and I am glad that it looks as if she won't need surger. How did this happen?
I think the problem with the hospitals is that you feel so exposed and yet so alone. Hope your mother is home safe and sound and soon.
Posted by: Rachel Ann at August 8, 2004 04:56 PMHaving recently left the hospital, I sincerely hope your Mother continues to get well soon. Does chicken soup work for bone infections? It's worth a try.....
Posted by: Wicked H at August 8, 2004 06:54 PMThank you all for your kind wishes. They are appreciated.
Posted by: RP at August 9, 2004 10:49 AMI've hated hospitals since I can remember. I have never had any good associations with it. No, wait, the only good association I've had with hospitals was when my mother was in an accident and she was treated well and quickly.
I hope your mother gets better soon and is able to return to her home. I know my mother couldn't wait to get home, but make sure your mother stays for however long it's needed.
Posted by: Jester at August 9, 2004 10:21 PMRP, I just made it to your site after several days, and want to add my belated good wishes and send zen-like good vibes to you, your mother, and the family. The prognosis sounds extremely hopeful! Best of luck!
Posted by: Mandalei at August 10, 2004 09:45 AMThanks, y'all!
Posted by: RP at August 13, 2004 04:49 PM