- I’ve been sick for the last week. Like really sick. I saw three different doctors, and then ended up in the emergency room. The first two doctors barely examined me, took one look at my throat, ordered a throat swab or a viral swab, and told me it was a virus, keep doing what I was doing, and go home. The third took me seriously, ordered some blood work, and when some of that came back concerning, called me herself to give me strict parameters on when to go to the ER. I met those parameters a couple hours later, and spent Wednesday night sitting in the ER and eventually getting treated for what they’re pretty sure is a nasty bacterial tonsillitis. I’m grateful for all the care I received – even the doctors who weren’t so great, because at least the tests they ordered ruled some things out, and made it easier for the following doctors to diagnose me.
- I texted my family the day after my emergency room trip and told them that I’ve changed my mind about steroid use! I was, of course, joking, but the steroid they gave me at the ER for inflammation was a game changer. After a week of uncontrolled throat pain despite round the clock usage of two different over the counter pain killers, that steroid plus a dose of an IV pain medication brought me so much relief that I’m nearly pain free, and what little pain I have left is being easily managed by the over the counter pain meds that were previously barely taking the edge off.
- Over the last few years I’ve done a lot of reading and research on neurodivergence and autism, and have learned so much in the process. I’ve come to the realization that I am most definitely neurodivergent, and quite likely fall on the autism spectrum. I had a conversation recently with a family friend since childhood and somehow this topic came up, and because this person was knowledgeable about the topic, I was struck by his quick agreement to my statement that I’m most likely on the spectrum. I felt seen in a way that I hadn’t in quite some time, particularly because this person has known me since I was a child and has seen all the iterations of me over the years, and offered no judgement or shame in his acknowledgement of my difference.
- In the spirit of special interests of the neurodivergent, one of mine is the names of the bucking stock at the Calgary Stampede Rodeo. For years now I’ve kept lists in my journal of the names, because they make me laugh – they suit my sense of humor. I’m so interested in it that I pay for one month of Sportsnet streaming every year so that I can watch all ten days of the rodeo and make my list.
- This year here are a few names I’ve loved: A bronco named Cat Nap, A bull named Bon Jovi, A bronco named Erotic Tango, and bulls named Wise Guy, Bad Intentions, Debt Collector, Bubba G, and Bow Before Me.
5 Things July 10, 2026
Lisa From Canada 