Last Thursday I tried to get a second-opinion appointment at Dana-Farber with the breast oncologist most recommended by Dr. C., my oncologist, and was told she didn’t take walk-ins, only special requests by other oncologists. So I asked Dr. C. to contact her. He did, she said yes by e-mail on Saturday, and I have an appointment at noon on Friday. So I guess I’m feeling special.

I keep puzzling over what, exactly, requires my actual presence in this second-opinion process (Eric says I should just reread my mom’s book for the answer). I may have questions for her, but in terms of what she needs to know about me, exactly why do I need to show up in front of her? Nevertheless, I’m going. We’re going.