A friend finally convinced me it was time to go. I swallowed my pride and had my husband seek out an English speaking doctor.
He actually found one not too far from our house. I went by myself, hoping for a quick consult and a simple solution. Instead of what I wanted, he gave me a referral as well as an unexpected opinion on my lack of Japanese skills. (It is so interesting how people like to give opinions here for things that are really none of their business.) Despite his critical comment, he took quite a bit of time to ensure the doctor he was referring me to could speak English.
A few days later, I was headed to the hospital to see the specialist. To an American, heading to the hospital is sounds pretty unnerving, but here it is more like going to a clinic with a whole bunch of departments. Shortly before my appointment, my husband informed me he was going to come with me to my appointment. I was grateful to have him join me to help with all the paperwork I knew I would need to fill out.
The morning of my appointment was a whirlwind of paperwork and waiting. Lots and lots of waiting! When we were finally called back, we were greeted by a different doctor than the one I was referred to. I softly asked “can we talk in English?” The doctor replied “I can understand everything you are saying, but I don’t have the confidence to speak to you in English.” At that point I was very, very grateful to have my husband, aka my translator, along for the appointment.
The doctor decided that my issue required a bit more investigation and we scheduled another appointment.
Last Saturday my day finally arrived. Since my husband was once again accompanying me, I needed someone to watch our son. Luckily, our beloved neighbor was free and more than willing to spend a few hours with him. She arrived with a bag of fun to keep them occupied while we were gone - including a gingerbread house! My son was over the moon.
The comfort I felt, knowing he was with someone I trusted, was pretty overwhelming. Since he was in trusted hands, I was able to relax for my appointment and focus on my medical care.
The appointment went smoothly (weirdly all in English), revealing there was nothing to be concerned about.
Throughout the whole process, I kept thinking how up a creek I’d be without my lovely husband as well as the support of friends. They keep me going, encourage me, translate for me, and even watch my kid at times. I’m so grateful for everything they do for me.
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