Day 12 This day began with an Angel named Karen Stephenson setting an appointment for me to see Dr. Johnson ( Director of Oncology at Vanderbilt) The Doc had cancer also. He really understands the need for hope. I liked him immediately and hugged him when I left. He didn’t say I would die the next day. Even if he felt it. I liked that he didn’t say it. After talking to a few folks…looks like he is a Christian. You might say Sis…. that is kinda rude. Yeap, that right. Dr. Johnson has ordered my records sent to him and I am calling him on Tuesday. He has accepted me as a new patient. This is a minor miracle. About that record sending thing: I have filled out the same informational pieces for 10 days. All but one in the same building. Now in this modern age, wouldn’t you think the old e-mail system could be utilized. Fill in the info on a shared drive (Privacy Law issue  perhaps). Have it ready to send on a moments whim. This can work. I gave the SAME information on every piece of paper. I know it’s a novel idea, but could the medical system use the same form? They ask for all the same answers. Quick question: Who is decorating these waiting rooms? I tell you it is the same guy. The chairs are rock hard. We need more couches. If we are having a hard time as a patient it would be very nice to be able to grab a little more space. I won’t even mention the art. How many lighthouses can there be? I am cutting to the chase here..……..No Burning daylight. Speaking of burning…I had radiation on my brain today. This is what happens: They strap you down……tell you….you better be careful not to move…the laser is pointed…….they are gonna turn that bad boy on …..and, I moved. They had to start all over again…Wonder where that errant ray went? Well it doesn’t matter as I had Grilled Chicken from J. Alexanders and I could still taste it …..so ok….. Back to the laser….So then the beam comes into your head….It’s red. I saw it with the back of my eyeball. They say don’t open your eyes. Well ok…I won’t. I couldn’t move now if I wanted to. They have duct taped my head to the table…I am not kidding. So I wonder is this just for me?…come on I only moved once. We finally are through in just a few seconds. They come out from their protected position and unstrap me. Why do they have gloves on? And why do I not? I think it is very important to point out that my caregives over-all have been very warm, supportive and knowledgable. One of the nurses I only met two days ago is leaving and we embraced as old friends. My Radiologist is going to be gone next week and he introduced me to the gentleman taking his place. He offered us his personal phone number if I had any problem tonight as my head will be glowing red by then. (He didn’t actually say my head would be glowing red, but I can read minds now. Once you have radiation this is possible) Luckily, red is my favorite color. My hair is going to fall out.  Well, I need to do my roots anyway. J and I had a GREAT night of talking and laughing. You know…..there are some pretty funny things going on. I promise to keep you updated. I lift up Lou tonight. Lou is a caregiver in Florida that has been reading this site. We have a lot of folks visiting from all over the world. Lou told me after she read our entries her life was changed as a caregiver. She posted our comments in her office and a link in their newsletter. She had everyone renew their medical vision. Thank you Lou. I lift you up tonight. <back