Watch Your Mouth, Or I’ll Call Your Father!
I have injured the inside of my mouth to the point where I am drooling a copious amount of blood. I text my parents telling them what’s happening before I head to the emergency room. While I wait, I text back and forth with my mother until I’m seen by the doctor.
Due to the current global health crisis, the emergency room is practically empty and I am admitted almost ten minutes later.
Doctor: “Your name is [My Name], and your birthdate is [date], correct?”
I nod, as it’s hard for me to speak.
Doctor: “All right, I’m going to have a look at your mouth here.”
She begins my exam and chuckles slightly.
Doctor: “You know, you share the same last name as one of the doctors here. What a small world, huh?”
My last name, though somewhat common, is uncommon in the area we live in. I type on my phone so she can see.
My Text: “My dad is the chief of emergency medicine; [Father]. Please treat me like a normal patient and just let him know what your action plan is, or he’ll worry.”
Doctor: *Reading* “Oh! I thought your mouth looked familiar!”
I try my best not to smile as she finishes her exam, which ends with me gaining seven stitches at the back of my mouth. The doctor disappears for a few minutes, returning with a lollipop for me for being “such a brave boy.”
Doctor: “Well, since you were such a good boy, I got you a lollipop, and there is a surprise waiting for you at the front door. Have a good night and take care of yourself, [My Name]!”
I thanked her and began to leave, walking through the deserted lobby. I suddenly heard my name being called from behind one of the doors to the emergency department, and there was my father, who I hadn’t seen in three weeks due to the crisis.
This story was included in our May 2020 Inspirational Roundup.
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