I had a physical at age 11. Due to life's circumstances (state custody) my healthcare needs were very neglected, despite being asthmatic.The exam was quite thorough. My doctor informed I needed 4 shots ( 2 in each arm ) and she pulled no punches stating they were going to be a little painful. I took it well. I didn't yell, scream or resist. I was mature enough to realize this was the right course of treatment for me.
Despite the preventative measures as previously mentioned regretfully I developed walking pneumonia and was hospitalized for Christmas. Although it sounds awful it was a blessing. For many kids in Foster Care Christmas Day can often be a let down. My FP's had me for less than a year. I think they both felt a little sad about the situation but I didn't care about being hospitalized during Christmas. I was happy I was in the company of two kind, loving and compassionate people. That is a gift that has no monetary value but warms the heart which is priceless.
About a few months later I was in for a follow up visit. I had to strip to my shorts to be weighed and measured. I was somewhat below average in weight factoring in my height and age. My doctor said despite the recent ordeal I managed to gain a few pounds and was showing improved muscle tone. I had been on a high protein diet to gain weight complimented by regular exercise. I was looking stronger and started to feel better about myself. My teen years were on the horizon and my FP's along with my doctor wanted me to approach this segment of my life with the tools and resources I needed for me to become happy, confident and successful. All I can say is good job.
Then came the bad news. During my hospital stay I should have been given a Gamma Globulin shot. During my previous visit I ended up with 4 shots in my arm. Dad looked at me and said “You've got this, tough guy” Then the worse news. Due to the size of the needle involved a Gamma Globulin shot is given on the back side. I had to remove my underwear and lie face down on the exam table. So there I was completely naked in front of my dad, about to get a painful injection in my right buttock. A very painful burning flooded around the injection site. This time my eyes watered up. I was a little embarrassed about being naked in front of my dad and my doctor but I felt far more ashamed that I cried a little.Then my doctor felt my shoulders, back and spine and said “You are definitely getting stronger. You did a great job today too. You might be in some pain for a few days so I am going to give you some pills to help you sleep.”
Dad and I got in the car as I was drying my eyes. I felt embarrassed for crying. Dad broke the silence by saying “You should have seen the size of that needle, buddy. It was huge. I probably would have watered up too so don't worry about it, ok? Stop selling yourself short. You are a bigger man than you think. Lets get outta here right now before we both get chased by mean old hag nurses with big needles.” What a perfect response.