"A Fifteen Minute Prognosis?"

A Graduation Nurse's Cap...

 Good Morning, Wednesday, y'all.

A couple of days ago, Therese’s urologist suggested we see a nurse specialist to handle a concern that this specialist could handle better than he could. I thought it was a strange “prescription” but if it helped we certainly needed check it out. Problem was, it in New Orleans.

Oh great, I thought. There goes another day. An hour there and an hour back to a place I hope we never ever have to visit again. And, for what? A fifteen minute prognosis?

Bonnie spent most of career as a nurse… all 40 plus years. One of the first things I noticed besides her welcoming demeanor (her smile was hidden behind the lately ubiquitous mask!) was a nurse’s cap pinned to her bulletin board.

I kinda like that. Someone who is proud of who they are and their accomplishments over so many years… No participation trophies here!

My doctor/bro is such an anarchist with regards to the medical profession and with good reason, but every now and then, I find some really good, attentive and concerned healthcare folks. Bonnie is one of those!

After assuring us that we were doing certain procedures correctly, and clarifying to us exactly how the healthcare system and the insurance work, she spoke about her plans for retirement.

When she found out that I was an artist, Bonnie whipped out her cellphone to show me her first watercolor still life. I was impressed and told her so.

“My husband told me that I needed to find something productive to occupy my mind and I cannot physically handle gardening!”

“Well, I said, Therese is learning to paint with acrylics.” Therese gives a groan at the perception of her progress.

“Watercolor is one of the more demanding mediums, Bonnie, I’m amazed,” I replied.

In a rather self-effacing, apologetic way, Bonnie said, “I didn’t draw it. The instructor did, but I painted it and like you said, I did it in layers!”

Leaving with her contact information and a small packet of samples to try out, we couldn’t help but wish her the best in her new life as a grandmother, a part time CSN and watercolorist.

It was the best fifty minute visit we’ve had in quite some time!

First cup!

Copyright 2022/Ben Bensen III