I was taken to Prague's Hamolka hospital by my caring friend, Alice, for my colonoscopy, duly prepared and completely empty, thanks to the horrid powdered substance I'd been drinking for a couple of days. Although perfectly on time, the face of the receptionist looking at her computer screen indicated a problem. In spite of having my appointment confirmed in writing, there was apparently no record on my procedure on her system. The thought of having to reschedule was unimaginable after such unpleasant preparation.
Thankfully, a doctor appeared who showed some willingness to find a solution to this administrative error. She agreed to carry out the procedure. Looking quite unenthusiastic, together with two nurses, they took me into a room and asked me to take off all my clothes except for my shirt and socks. The only two clear comments I heard from the doctor were: "I need a gateway to your anus", and "This problem was not my fault", as the nurse began injecting a sedative into my arm. She and the two nurses were quite unfriendly and certainly didn't have any interest in explaining what was happening.
It was a bit like a train going through a tunnel. I felt nothing, but could see the journey from the driver's compartment view on a television screen, as the camera went up my bottom. The injection must have caused me to nod off for a few minutes, because when I opened my eyes it was over.
In spite of being told that the doctor spoke English, she left without providing me with any explanation as to what had happened. But she did briefly tell Alice that they had found three polyps which had been removed and sent to the laboratory for testing. So, with no medical professional to provide any commentary, I went to Wikipedia which says: "A polyp is an abnormal growth of tissue projecting from a mucous membrane.” Now I must wait the results, but am assured that polyps are quite common and that I shouldn’t be worried.
I’ve no reason to doubt the ability of the medical professionals at the Hamolka Hospital, but there is massive room for improvement in their manner and patient empathy. Thankfully, I was with a dear friend who provided me with the comfort and compassion that was so lacking by the doctor and her nurses.
In spite of having nothing to eat for 24 hours, my appetite took a while to return, particularly because I had some quite painful wind. But I am happy to report that I did enjoy some lovely chicken soup, as well a juicy piece of tuna with some soft mashed potato. Just what the doctor ordered (or didn’t in my case!).
Grandpa Jonathan
Prague, Czech Republic
