Cancer 128

Hospital again, for the third time in a week. Each time it is over 30 miles round trip, and then, because of limited parking, I have to get in early (by around 0730) to ensure I get a space, irrespective of the time of appointment. This then means that only Costa is open to get a cup of tea. As the place stinks of rancid coffee, I prefer to hang around in a corridor (as I am doing now) until 0800 when the main restaurant opens. Restaurant is a loose term. In the morning it only sells poor quality fried breakfast, which even I usually avoid. It has also recently opened a Subway, which smells even worse than Costa. I have never eaten anything from Subway, but I do wonder how anyone would want to given the smell.

I now understand why I am called a patient. It is not because I am ill, but because the level of patience required is Sisyphusian. Arrive at hospital. Do not plan anything else for the day. Bring a good book. I am currently reading Borderlands, a history of Europe told from the edges, by Lewis Baston. I have always liked borders. They are so much more interesting than the centre of things.

I am here today because this week’s treatment was cancelled because I have a severe skin infection, and it is being checked to see whether I can have treatment next week. It is clearing so I don’t see why not.

The problem with having a week’s delay on treatment with a fortnightly cycle is that it throws out all our plans. We usually plan something for my week off, but now my week off will become my week on. In the past this has meant losing money on holidays, but we have wised up to it and now only book last minute. It is also why any arrangements made with friends may be cancelled at the last minute. Sorry for being so inconvenient people.

My appointment is for 0900 so I dream of being away for 0915. The reality I may be sent for a scan or a blood test, with an appointment this afternoon, or be subject to some other activity which is designed to try the patience of the most patient patient.

Apologies for any spelling mistakes. I am writing this on my phone and I have big thumbs – and a skin infection so be patient.