New Blood and the Old Medical Merry-Go-Round

Turns out that I really, truly needed a transfusion yesterday.  Only had one unit on-hand.  Dizzy, short of breath, and nausea are usually the give-aways.  But, they came on fast, hard, and all at once.  Took a while to absorb the new juice and get balance back.

Because of the possible damage to my innards by the corticosteroid, a prescription for Protonix was called in, which they insist will protect the stomach and reduce acidity.  It's been years since I've had heartburn, gas, or indigestion.  Since changing my diet all that discomfort is a thing of the past.  But, I'll pick up the drug, JIC I do need it down the road.

On the way home I stopped at the Eye Institute on the off chance of getting a quick eye exam and prescription for new glasses.  Never been there before and I must say it is a horrible place, staffed by people with horrible attitudes, who have a rigid way of doing business - no diverting from the protocol set, seemingly, in stone. 

The interior looks more like a government building, or a bank.  Dark wood panelling, brass and leather everywhere, and a 'reception area' that looks like a series of bank teller windows. The women receptionists never made eye contact, half listened to a question, then interjected irrational company policy. Stifle all questions, why dontcha!

The only time I made eye contact was when I asked about quick exam and a copy of the prescription, which I would have filled elsewhere. She shot me a look as if I just said "I have pee'd on your rug here."  More rehashed rhetoric was all that was forthcoming. So, I left, as she yelled after me to fill out an application for an appointment which would take about a week to verify.

Application?  Verify?  

WTF!  I'm not looking for a fucking loan, lady, just new glasses. I waved her off. I wasn't about to go back for an explanation after the rude and arrogant behavior. All I need is an exam and prescription.  No $300.00 frames to go with them. I can order lenses and frames online - get 3 pair for less than that #300.00. Including overnight shipping for an extra $10.00. 

I snagged a bottle of Merlot to enjoy with supper least evening as I headed back to town. While I was pretty dizzy and uncomfortable I was going to pay another visit to the boardwalk before going home. It began to rain as I neared town however, so that put a damper (so to speak) on that idea. 

So, I've spent hours on the Google only to discover that I do, indeed, live in a wasteland for fast, convenient medical care. That includes eye care, too. Nothing within a 30 mille radius. The nearest big chain stores are in Philadelphia or Wilmington, and I am not in shape to make that drive. They also don't do exams anymore, but partner with Optometrists nearby, who perform the exams while the Lens Crafters or Sterling Optical folks only fill the prescriptions.  Nice set up - - - for them. 

Getting an appointment with local optometrists has proved fruitless.  Seems no one works on Saturdays or Tuesdays. (Are they Optometrists or Hairdressers?) Most don't even have an exam request line for a call back to schedule an appointment.

Annoying, to say the least.  But, yes - it is what it is.

Began gathering documents for the 2013 tax returns. Everything is chaotic here, though  I always try to keep all tax stuff together in one folder.  Made it about half way before getting really tired and the beginnings of a headache. I made a quick supper, had a glass of wine and felt better.  Was in bed and fast asleep by 8 pm.  Nice, that. 

After a nice breakfast, I finished gathering the tax stuff.  Packed it up, and got it ready for the Post Office on Monday. The PO closes at Noon on Saturdays. One more day isn't going to hurt. Besides, I'm feeling a lot better now. 

Today is absolutely stunning outdoors.  Blue sky, light breeze and a high of about 65'F.   I'll take it. I'll also take a ride down to the boardwalk for a little sunshine and warm breeze to end the week on a high note.

And so it goes.

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