I’ll tell you, Dennett — as a former nurse — heading to an ER or having surgery is the very LAST option I’d voluntarily take. But I have been very fortunate in nearly all of my ER visits. This trip was via ambulance — which gets you immediate access to care. The EMTS were so great & the relief I felt at having pain medication on board was beyond words. My daughter is a former healthcare executive, above & beyond being fierce — she knows how to speak the language. And I think that’s the most important piece. To have someone with you who is quite willing to make a scene. Whenever I took my former husband or kids into the ER, I always announced I was a nurse. I never let them guess — because now they KNEW that I was expecting the same level of care for my family member as they would want for theirs. My boss once called me an insubordinate bitch. But in truth — I was always a patient advocate. And I never, ever, once defended or made excuses for other healthcare professionals who brought less than 100% to the care of their patients. There are many people out there in the healthcare profession who should not be in it. And that’s the sad truth of the matter.

I hope 2023 brings you & Ben good health & no need to engage the healthcare system. ❤