I went to the meeting
informal in its grandeur
at a community centre library no less
how apropos
my panic disappearing
into the emotion charged air
whereas moments before
afraid I’d succumb
to my first phobia again
part of me wanting to run
but quickly revitalized
by the blood transfusion
implanted in my ears

I thanked my higher power
for the ride to the hospital
where I met for the first time
a most peculiar group of doctors
no more qualified than I
at practising our craft
a pretty nurse looking me over
then turned away quickly
whenever I’d catch her glance
I tried the same therapy
and she responded in turn smiling
both of us resuscitated
by the same oxygen hose

© 1989
Inputted and revised © 2021

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11/14/2021