Time Off
Not only am I enjoying my new career more and more each week but I am so grateful to have all of the benefits that come with a full time position. My benefits recently kicked in and I am saving a good deal of money each month on prescriptions and doctor's visits.
One thing I haven't had since 1997 is paid time off. I took my first weekend off this coming weekend to enjoy Halloween but mainly because it's the one year anniversary of my father's death and we are having a memorial for him and finally putting up his headstone.
My father told me about the doctor visits, x-rays, PET and CT scans he had as he was dealing with aging. He told me how important it was for him to have the person who was performing the exam on him tell him what to expect. I always think of this when I am working with my patients and it makes me smile.
He passed away a year ago yesterday and I am still struggling with the many emotions that come with losing a parent. I am so grateful to have the time off of work so I can be with my family and I appreciate the support of my co-workers during this difficult time.