This morning I drove Mama to Cardinal Santos in Greenhills because she was scheduled for this test called a Bone Densitometry, defined as an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss. I had never heard of it before and Mama seemed anxious about getting it done. But our OB-Gyne (yes, we share just one) recommended this exam to check if the pain in Mama's back could mean the onset of Osteoporosis plus the fact that my Grandma herself has it. At first she told me that it was okay to just leave her there and come back in an hour, but I insisted on waiting.
The procedure was done in this new wing behind the hospital's main building, called the Cancer Wing. I only sat in their spacious and comfortable airconditioned lobby for less than an hour but I don't know how many people I saw coming in and out of the Chemotherapy area. Most wore bandanas on their head, others wore baseball caps. Obviously, they were cancer patients who had lost their hair as a result of chemo. I've never been in the presence of anyone who's gravely ill and battling cancer. My Mom's younger sister who was my favorite, favorite Aunt, lost her battle to Non Hodgekins Lymphoma a few years ago but she passed away in the States. My Mom was by her bedside when she drew her last breath. Neal personally took care of his Dad when the latter had Liver Cancer, until he succumbed to it many years ago. But I remain clueless about what it's really like to take care of a loved one who's that sick. I believe God had a purpose for making me want to sit there and wait for Mama while she was being examined.
I hope I'm getting His message right and I'm praying my Mom's okay. I'm holding my breath til Tuesday when the results are released.
oh, hope it turns out to be nothing. i'll be praying with you.
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