Best of the best

Yesterday I had my first visit with my new Ob/Gyn here in Cancun, and the overall experience was so amazing that I had to write about it.

I had been putting off this visit for...errr.... 2 years to be exact. I can't believe how stupid I was, but that is a whole other story. The truth is I tried to go when I was in Canada this past January, as it's free. Yes, I said free 100%. Well that's great and all, but the Dr was late that morning due to a snowstorm and he told me he didnt' have time to do a pap, unless I was experiencing troubles?

Well, I was with one of my closest friends a few weeks ago and I told her I really need to get a pap, and full physical. Truth be told, I was getting colposcopy's back in Canada, and they were always okay, but the last one was 2 years ago. So, for me it's all the more important to go. I know this is very common, so some of you know what I'm talking about.

I showed up at my Dr's office, and it was so nice. The waiting room was nothing like what I was used to back home. It didn't look like your trypical clinic. It was like a scene from a movie it was tranquil - dimmed lighting, soothing music in the background, and the most comfy sofas ever.

When it was my turn, I was buzzed through a door and there was my Doc. He had a friendly smile on his face, and greeted me with an open hand. I quickly said - I need to speak English, and he was okay with this as long as I didn't speak too fast. He asked all the important questions, some embarassing ... only as I realized how bad I had been neglecting my health.

When it was time for my physical - he took me to the space behind a wall, asked me to change into my robe, and meet him back there.

I don't want to give too many details, but he did a full breast exam. All good. He then did a pap, and was so gentle. I couldn't believe it was over when he said he was taking out the "thing". I really didn't feel a thing, and that's never happened before. I thought that was it. NOPE - he then did an internal ultrasound to check out my ovaries, etc....

Now, I'm not sure where you're all from, but back home this does not happen. The ultrasound. Unless you are pregnant, I've never heard of the Dr. providing this service at the time of your physical. Usually you have to complain of some issues, and then they send you to see a radiologist to get these done. I was so impressed.

I go back in a month for my results, and oh geeze I hope everything is okay. I do feel better having finally done this. Thank goodness :) Now maybe we can look at having a baby!

My Doctor for any of you living in Cancun was Dr. Luis J. Medellin, and his website is: http://www.ginecologocancun.com/ . All his contact information is there, and I would recommend him to ANYONE. Altogether the total cost for my visit, and my tests was $850 pesos. Not bad if you ask me? Again, I came from a place where healthcare was absolutely free, and I now realize free doesn't always mean better.

For any of you ladies putting this off - don't be stupid, don't be me!! Book your appointment now!

You have what? Must have positive thoughts....

Well it’s been quite some time since my last post, and usually I try and keep them upbeat and positive…. Well I’m still going to try to do it with this one.

My step mom Joy who I am EXTREMELY close to and love as much as you could ever love someone who is not blood family was recently diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrigs Disease). I don’t want to even go into too much detail as I get upset, but for those of you who don’t know it is terminal, and a terrible debilitating disease.

Joy’s cousin recently designed a website : http://www.hopeforjoy.ca/ that talks about the disease, and has a blog where Joy can write about her day to day experiences with the disease and treatments.

Health care in Canada is scary, and thank GOD my family could go through the private sector and get some answers. 11 months public and she was still waiting for a CAT scan. 2 months in the private sector and she was diagnosed, and has already begun treatments. I won’t even go into the costs so far… However, you can’t put a price on your health!

Coincidentally enough, they are now in Mexico! They are actually going to a clinic in Mexico that was recommended by their clinic in Canada – it deals with neurological diseases, and detoxifications. http://www.sanoviv.com/ .

I will write more when I know more, and let you know how the experience at the clinic is. It’s supposed to be World Class, and really promote healthier living which is essential to a person living with ALS.

So from the Rockies to the Baja she goes!! Funny isn’t it? Free health care in Canada, free my ass. Sorry, but that part really frustrates me… I’m going to have to let that go!

That’s it for now, but again I’ll make sure to post some pics of the clinic and let you all know how the treatment(s) go!!!

Here is a picture of our family with Joy ... the last time she was able to hold a golf club. WOW. Who knew that would be the last time?