Two weeks ago, I prayed as I walked into the facility that would do the scan. I prayed because I procrastinated like always and didn’t get the Diazepam from the pharmacy for my MRI appointment for my left shoulder. The Diazepam was supposed to relax me during the procedure. Even though an MRI isn’t invasive, the machine is claustrophobic for me.
Since I didn’t have the prescription, I needed to Pray, and I prayed I did as I walked into the building to the office for the MRI.

I checked in and said Lord Jesus, help me through this, as I sat down in the waiting room. The receptionist soon led me back to a room, where she handed me two paper-like garments to put on once I undressed.

Once I put on the paper-like garments, I opened the door, and a technician awaited me. He led me to a large room with an enormous machine. I stood there thinking that I couldn’t go through with the appointment. I said to myself, Doreen, stop being a punk. Yes, the machine was more extensive, but there was more room inside, where I had to lie still for twenty minutes. Plus, there was no way I would return to the car and tell my daughter and grandkids I couldn’t do it.

The technician discussed the procedure and ensured I was comfortable before slowly entering me into the MRI machine. The machine was more expansive on the inside, but I was still freaking out. Immediately, I began praying to God. I can’t say that I calmed down right away, but the more I prayed and counted the minutes, the easier it was not to continue in fear. I can’t say that the twenty minutes passed quickly, but I thanked the technician, dressed, and rushed out when it was over.

The next day, at my Orthopedic appointment, my doctor told me that my right shoulder had an impingement syndrome and Arthrosis (normal wear and tear on your joints and cartilage). The assessment stated that my left shoulder’s pain was probably from AC hypertrophy and impingement.

Anyway, we talked about how to treat the conditions, and I decided to do physical therapy rather than surgery at the time. I don’t know why I haven’t made my physical therapy appointment since there is no way I would ever agree to surgery. I guess I am understandably skeptical. However, when I come out of this RA flare, I will give physical therapy a try and pray that it works.

I have learned that nothing in this life is definite. There will always be exceptional, moderate, and unfavorable days, but I have to count on God to help me get through all of my days.