All I Need Is The Air That I Breathe

So this is the situation:

Photo credit: Hey Paul Studios

In preparation for my upcoming visit to a lung specialist, my doctor's office requested that I get a chest x-ray. I could go anywhere but we both agreed that the imaging centre on Merivale Road was my best option.

I'm having trouble accessing my doctor's office online portal, where I can book appointments, communicate with my doctor, and receive prescriptions and requisitions. Instead, I had to go to my doctor's office to pick up the x-ray requisition, but that was no problem: the office is only about five minutes away from my house.

On Saturday, I went to the Merivale Medical Imaging centre and was seen within an hour of arriving. I was able to check in and leave my cell number, and they texted me when they were ready for me. I was able to grab some breakfast while I waited.

Every time that the radiologist told me to take a deep breath and hold it, I'd end up coughing and would have to take a second breath. "I can see why you're here," he said, trying to be sympathetic to my plight.

When we were done, he wished me well and said that my doctor should have the results by Monday.

Yesterday, my doctor called me with the results. "I'm concerned," she said. She told me that there was an opacity to the lower part of both lungs but it was particularly bad in my left lung. There were also opaque streaks that led upward from the dark areas. She didn't know what was causing them but assured me that the specialist will know.

And so, I wait for the next available appointment, which I hope is soon. I've also made a follow-up appointment with my doctor, who may or may not renew the prescription for my inhalers.

I'm not worried. Not yet. When the circumstances are beyond my control and I don't have definitive information, I tell myself that worrying is a wasteful emotion. I'll stay positive until I know more.

And then, maybe some panic will set in. Wish me luck.