"A Brief Update" by Elena Goodrow

I am currently writing to you from my CF clinic, my laptop set up on the desk in the exam room as I wait for my glucose tolerance test to be over. I’ve been here for 5 hours now and I’m loving every moment. Today’s visit is a big one for me, this is my first appointment seeing a new doctor at a new office. You may remember reading my column post from a few months ago where I wrote about my previous doctor’s retirement. That doctor took care of me since the day I was born, and I was so terrified to break my routine to go to a new doctor. Well today I’ve seen MANY new doctors. This is my first real CF clinic experience as my old doctor ran an independent practice by himself. I went to a CF clinic when I was very little but I have no memory. Today I met a Respiratory Therapist, Social Worker, Dietitian, Pharmacist, Phlebotomist, and last but not least the Pulmonologist. It’s been a long day and it’s not over yet. I haven’t had this type of specialized care before, and while it’s time consuming it’s also so incredible to have all these people take care of each and every concern. I’m sure many of us can relate to long, boring, stressful, tiring days at the CF clinic. I come into this experience with fresh eyes, unaware of anything beforehand. I’m so grateful to have access to this care team that’s so incredibly helpful.

While I miss the familiarity of my previous doctor, it feels refreshing to have new opinions on my medical care. It’s also comforting to have so many new tests run, not only are my new doctors getting to know my health but I’m getting reintroduced to my own body. It’s pretty cool to have this experience, and perhaps it will help bring a positive light to those who have grown tired/wary of clinic appointments. It’s such a gift to have intelligent people giving valuable input on my health and I wish everyone could experience that in their lifetime. Now excuse me while I stare at the MyChart inbox waiting for all the test results…