Sandwiched
Last week I wrote about reading glasses, one of the interesting, often amusing parts of being in the sandwich generation. At this age, I don’t leave home without them.
I’ve enjoyed turning 50 and was thrilled to mark the occasion last summer with a hot air balloon ride with my husband. My family and friends were amazing with their well wishes and fun surprises. I know I’ll never forget the entire weekend of celebration.
There’s another rite of passage surrounding this age, however, that I’m not thrilled about – getting a colonoscopy. Every physician will tell you it’s important to get one starting at age 50 and every 10 years afterward (as long as there’s nothing concerning) with the final one done at age 70.
I’ve already experienced this not-so-pleasant procedure eight years ago. Actually, the procedure itself isn’t a big deal. Being knocked out and waking up to hear you can finally eat was great! We all know it’s the preparation that’s the real pain in the you-know-where (literally!)
I was scheduled for another colonoscopy on Oct. 19, but my husband and I were around someone who tested positive for COVID-19 so I had to cancel. Darn. The nice woman on the phone told me they’d call me back to reschedule.
John and I turned out to be negative for COVID, so I waited to hear from the doctor. Part of me hoped to never get the call.
But the other part of me knew it was important. Cancercare.org states that a colonoscopy is the best screening test available for colorectal cancer. It is the only screening test that also prevents many colorectal cancers.
I lost my grandmother to colon cancer and I know several other friends who have lost loved ones to it. With all of this in mind, I started to get concerned when I didn’t hear back from my doctor’s office. I actually picked up the phone last Wednesday, on my own, to get it rescheduled.
And I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised by the instructions I received in the mail for the preparation. The seemingly gallons of disgusting tasting liquid that I recall having to chug years ago were gone. Bonus! I’m glad at least part of the whole affair will be somewhat better.
It’s so easy when you’re in the sandwich generation to not take care of yourself since you’re so busy taking care of others. When you turn 50, don’t skip this rite of passage (pun intended!) A day of inconvenience could truly save your life.