I’m 32 and Still See a Doctor at a Children’s Hospital
Today I had my annual cardiology appointment, but I don’t go to your typical cardiology clinic. Mine is located at a local children’s hospital. When I was 2, I was diagnosed with a heart murmur and sent to this same hospital. I was then diagnosed with Marfan syndrome and seen there throughout my childhood.
Thirty years later, I’m still being seen at the same clinic. I’ve changed drastically and so has the hospital. This hospital has seen my tears, seen my pain and witnessed me overcome so many challenges. With four major operations and countless appointments, this hospital has become a huge part of my life. I couldn’t put a number on the amount of hours I’ve spent in this place.
It’s a little odd I have this emotional connection to a building. This place saved my life and gave me hope for a bright future. I think this is common with chronically ill patients; our memories are entangled with places like hospitals and doctor offices. We spend so much of our time in these places that they become woven into our lives.
I’m lucky to still be able to be seen as an adult at the congenital heart defect clinic. When I turned 18, I was worried I would have to become an actual adult and find another cardiologist, but I was reassured I would be able to continue my care with the same clinic that diagnosed me.
What’s it like going to a children’s hospital as a 32-year-old adult? It’s pretty fantastic. I can definitely appreciate all the bright colors and child-themed decor. However, the patient’s rooms for adult congenital heart patients are pretty basic. But we do get some of the best doctors in the nation handling our care.
These appointments can last for hours; today it was almost three. The first step is getting an echocardiogram. This is like an ultrasound for your heart. These take about 15 to 20 minutes. The perk is they usually have the latest Disney movie playing, but today it was HGTV. I was a little bummed about that part.
Next it’s time for an EKG. This is a pretty basic test that records the electrical activity of the heart. It takes more time to place the leads on your body then it does for the actual test.
Waiting for the doctor to review both tests and see other patients make up the bulk of the appointment. I don’t recommend taking a toddler with you to these appointments because of the wait time, but I do recommend practicing your selfie game.
I saw the doctor and everything looked great. I wouldn’t need to be seen for another year. Last but not least, some lab work needed to be done to check my blood thinner. I was off to the lab and hoped there would be a lot less waiting this time.
Finally done with everything, my husband and I left to head back home. Another year’s appointment done. On a serious note, I can’t complain about how long these appointments take. These appointment are the key to sustaining my life. As inconvenient as a three-hour doctor appointment can be, it’s worth every single minute.
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