I woke up yesterday morning and could barely move; my head was pounding and I had an uncontrollable cough. My eyes were watery and I could see little. Figuring I would not be much help to my colleagues at work (and I am sure they didn’t want my germs either), I decided to stay home and call the doctor for an appointment.

At 2:30, I had my driver pick me up (yes, we have drivers in this part of the world), and off I went to the hospital to see the doctor. Now this is not just any hospital…how about a five star hotel? I was greeted by the doorman and I responded “Sabah al noor” in Arabic. He smiled as I continued through the door and into the foyer of this five star hotel hospital.

I felt like I was in the “hanging gardens of Babylon”. There were hanging plants everywhere. The sounds of a waterfall could be heard in the distance. Sofas, plush chairs, and carved rosewood tables were highlighted by colorful fresh flower arrangements. “Birds of paradise” abounded. Bistro tables were set in groupings to encourage conversation by lunch goers.

Oh, yes, and the doctor…after all this was the reason I was here. As I sat in the waiting room, a young waitress by the name of Gloria came along and offered me something to drink…American coffee, Turkish coffee, juice, water, etc. I accepted a glass of water and waited patiently as I sneezed voraciously, coughed continuously all the while holding my head in my hands.

Finally, my name was called. The doctor spent 40 minutes with me (unbelievable) and ordered a barrage of tests. Now this was certainly not the five minute in the office and out again and on to the next patient syndrome. I was in awe! Though I will have to await my results (guaranteed in two days), I left my five star hotel hospital feeling satisfied that my doctor was looking after me.

As the door closed behind me, I got into the waiting limo.

Roxy

www.roxydoes.com