Interlude: A Day in a Public Clinic

Five hours in the public clinic makes me ponder about my parent's health condition in future. Am I emotionally prepared if they are "disabled" and in their 80's (if God permits)? I was sitting in front of a man, in his 40's, and a carer for a "disabled Father in Law" who is muted, wheelchaired, and pretty cranky.

Based on their "hair rising" conversation, his FIL wants to go back home, unable to wait to change his feeder tube. His Son IL tries his best not to get boiled up by his FIL tantrums. I know he is angry... I can feel it.

Getting treatment in public clinic can be a frustrating experience (However, the majority of us Malaysians realized we are the "top" health care provider in the world). It may take a whole day, but it is assured that we meet the Medical Officer upon visiting.


I look at my mom and start to think, am I prepared to be her reliable carer in the next 5 years? What will happen to me in next few months? As for now, I'm a stay-at-home daughter... fails to provide her financial support for anything she wishes. Am I wrong for doing a Ph.D.? Am I wrong for not getting any job right now? Am I wrong for not getting married? ... unanswered

Part of my destiny is entrenched. I do have flaws in taking care of my parent's needs. At this moment, I've failed taking care of myself too.

p/s: Never leave your "wheelchaired" parent unassisted... in any circumstances. I just saw a few carers did this in clinic today.