November 30

We continue to try and find the humor in our daily interactions at Johns Hopkins. For anyone who has every spent time there- you know that it is a 'world' within itself. They have their own time zone and a specific set of procedures for maneuvering through the hospital. The fact that they do not provide patients and families with a rules and regulations handbook has caused Robert and I to find ourselves in some sticky situations. Ex. Showing up for an early morning appointment to find that the admittance office is closed and no one could tell us where we were scheduled to be. Finding a person sitting at a desk with a plaque titled 'patient service coordinator' who abruptly told me that he didn't know how to direct us. After a radiation treatment, Robert was handed his medical file and told to take to his appointment with the doctor. Let's just say- we got caught reading it -which is apparently not allowed. We inevitably wind up learning something new about what we are supposed to do, how we are supposed to do it, or where we are supposed to be. I have also discovered that emotional spouses get quick reactions from nurses. Seriously- Robert and I are grateful to be at such an amazing hospital. We have met so many amazing nurses, medical staff, and doctors that have provided us great care and attention. We have met so many patients and families that have told us their stories and remind us of how fragile and special we all are. They inspire us and remind us of how much we have to be grateful for. We are grateful for our support network that lifts our spirits and allows us to focus doing what we need to do to get well. You are the best. Thanks