As already mentioned, I had a Friday afternoon appointment with Dr. Donato, my transplant doctor. The results from my tests were all good and she was quite pleased with my appearance. She summed up everything by saying, “I couldn’t be happier.”
Specifics on the transplant are still somewhat up in the air. Michelle, my transplant coordinator was tied up in a meeting and so we couldn’t get specifics on when my donor will be coming to Houston.
Most probably I will go into the hospital on August 8 and begin chemo then. The actual transplant should begin August 15. By Monday, August 1, I should know all of this for sure.
As you might imagine, I was very pleased to hear Dr. Donato say she couldn’t be happier. Then I began thinking (it’s one of my new hobbies). I mean, I don’t really know Dr. Donato all that well. What if she is this sour person who is rarely happy? Saying she couldn’t be happier is not quite the same superlative as someone like Pollyanna saying it.
So in order to put my mind at ease, in order to find out my true condition, I have a plan. At next Friday’s appointment, I am going to tell Dr. Donato a joke. Now I understand that a sense of humor is not the same as being happy, but happy people are more inclined to laugh, are they not? I mean, I don’t know if this is verifiably true or not, but it’s my plan, my blog, my doctor’s appointment, so we’re going to act as if it is true.
Here’s my joke:
Knock-knock.
Who’s there?
Impatient cow.
Impatient cow wh . . .
Moo.
Now, if some of you feel as if this joke leaves something to be desired and will not give the good Dr. a chance to laugh, it’s time to step front and center and offer a better joke.
I will consider all submissions offered until Friday morning. Sadly, there is no prize for sending a joke I use, but there is the satisfaction of knowing you have helped doctor-patient communication.
For all who offer their help, I thank you in advance.
(Clearly, I have too much time on my hands.)
Rick
7/31/05
I wish I had a joke for you, Rick. But I am taking Dr. Donato at face value and know that she is pleased with your condition and the dates will be confirmed. You have made my day! Will be seeing Char and Dale today for cards and dinner — they will be thrilled. We in Arizona are sending a lot of prayers and good thoughts.
OK, OK, I’ve got one.
How many people with ADD does it take to change a lightbulb?
(How many?)
You wanna ride bikes?
Courtesy of one of my Project teammates who is currently working feverishly with me to finish. We have 35 hours and counting until we’re done! Can’t wait to come down to Houston!
-Z
Hi! I’m one of Sam’s friends and project teammates at CMU. Fortunately for you, the Prairie Home Companion Joke Show was just replayed on NPR last week. Maybe she will like a medical professionals joke (But if she’s blonde, don’t tell it to her. All real blondes know that blonde jokes exist because stupid brunettes have to dye thier hair to be cool.)
Why do blonde nurses carry red pens?
So they can draw blood.
*******************
And, if that doesn’t work:
What did the fish say when he swam into the wall?
Dam.
Best of Luck with your operation!
Sandi Lowe
Rick, I’m glad to read that you seem to be in good spirits. Check your other e-mail. I sent a smiler. Pam
What do you can a two kneed fish?
Tu-nee fish.
I think telling two would give you a better understanding of her character. Yes?
Glad you liked the poem. I was told it was too dark, but I knew you would understand it and not take offense. I think of you often. I’m going to start blogging (haven’t in forever). I’m on livejournal under the name tensleeps if you get bored.
I think you should ask her if you’ll be able to play the piano after your transplant. And if she says “YES†you say, “GREAT! Because I couldn’t before!â€
Happy Birthday Rick!!!!! Keep on with that great attitude – you’re in my thoughts.
Sara
Al right so you’re another year older & MUCH WISER. May you see another 50+ years.
Terry & Pam