I still play basketball usually 4 times a week, and it happens that some of the regular players are physicians.
This morning I ran into someone’s elbow with my face (it really was my fault), and the edge of my glasses cut a long deep slit in my cheek. Blood was running down my face as I ran to the bathroom to get paper towels.
After I came out, huddled around me in conference to determine the best way to proceed were three physicians : an anesthesiologist, a gynecologist, and a general surgeon.
They all had their opinion, but in the end I went with the surgeon who put in three stitches. I’m going to have a black eye for a few days and probably a scar, but otherwise I’ll be fine.
I’ve had similar injuries before and usually just put on a butterfly and band aid, but this one seemed a little deeper, and it’s nice to have professional help when you need it.
I’m sure glad you didn’t go with the gynecologist’s recommendation…
Out of curiosity, was he able to do it there or did you have to go to his office? Did he give you a discount?
Comment by Richard — March 2, 2010 @ 3:23 pm
We went to his office, which was nearby. No charge.
I also thought about making a joke about the gynecologist, but had better taste. ;p
Comment by Daryl — March 2, 2010 @ 4:08 pm
If you ran into the surgeon’s arm, maybe he was afraid you would sue him, so he decided to play the hero. Knowing how klutzy you are, I am sure that it was your fault!
Comment by Mom — March 2, 2010 @ 5:17 pm
Hey, gynecologists put in sutures all the time, but usually not in the face. ;o) This is not the first time you’ve smashed your face. Are you playing a little too rough? Be careful!
Comment by Donna — March 2, 2010 @ 9:57 pm
Besides all that, you are too old to be playing basketball!
Comment by Mom — March 2, 2010 @ 10:40 pm
Too old, too shmold!
OK, admittedly I’m almost always the oldest one out there, but I think the benefits to my health outweigh the risks. It’s the only way I can discipline myself to get exercise. I’ve tried bikes, jogging and gyms, but it’s too easy to put it off or cut it short. With the excitement of competitive play I look forward to going and am impatient when I have to miss.
When I start needing a cane to get down the court, then maybe I will be too old!
Comment by Daryl — March 3, 2010 @ 10:34 am
Who needs single payer when you have friends like that!
Comment by Dale — March 3, 2010 @ 5:34 pm
Happy Birthday Daryl!
Comment by Don — March 10, 2010 @ 7:47 am
Thanks Don. 59 seems like I’m getting close to middle age.
Comment by Daryl — March 10, 2010 @ 9:56 am
Wow! Daryl, your really old….What?….I can’t be! Happy belated!
Comment by Dale — March 14, 2010 @ 8:59 am
Here’s a picture of my face, after the stitches. Looks like 5 stitches, instead of the 3 I thought.
Comment by Daryl — March 26, 2010 @ 5:19 pm