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Ms. Evans:
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Doctor Balis? This is Cassie...Cassandra Evans. Do you remember me? I know its been a long time since we've spoken, and I apologize for not calling sooner.
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Dr. Balis:
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Cassie! Yes, of course I remember. I'm very happy to hear from you. How are you doing these days?
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Ms. Evans:
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I guess I'm doing a little better now. I'm still not doing well--with this Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome thing, my life hasn't been very easy. I spiraled into a really bad depression for a while. My grandmother was an angel during the whole time. She was literally my nursemaid. Anyway, this past month I've been trying to get my life back in order. Last November, I took a medical leave from SII. And now I'm going to try to arrange some part-time work from home via telecommuting.
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Dr. Balis:
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I'm glad to hear that you feel well enough to go back to work.
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Ms. Evans:
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Yes, I think it would be good for me. Oh, I finally broke up with Brian, by the way. He drifted in and out of the scene for the longest time. And then I realized I don't need or want him anymore. I met this great guy at a CFIDS support group meeting. His name is David. He was doing a research project--David is a psychology student at the university. We started to talk, he took me out a few times...well, one thing lead to another, and now we're sort of an item. In fact, David has been urging me to call you and try to schedule some appointments.
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Dr. Balis:
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I would be happy to do that. I've been very worried about you, Cassie. But it sounds like things are really looking up for you. So, do you think you will be able to come and have sessions in my office or would you rather continue with our previous arrangements and have telephone appointments instead?
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Ms. Evans:
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To tell you the truth, I don't know. I had to give up my car--couldn't afford to pay for it. Besides, it was kind of tricky driving when I was feeling so ill. Anyway, I can't get anywhere without someone's help. David has taken me to a lot of appointments. But his schedule is so freaky with school and all, and now that I am going to try to do some work again, who knows what will happen? So let me think. How late are you available? I mean, I think David could take me if we do it Tuesday evenings. He has clinic until 6:30, so by the time he swings by and grabs me...I could probably be there by 8:30.
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Dr. Balis:
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Eight thirty at night? That's kind of late. Is it possible for you to make any other arrangements?
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Ms. Evans:
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I hate this part. I get so emotional.
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Dr. Balis:
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Cassie, it's all right. I'm sure we could figure out...
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Ms. Evans:
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You don't understand, Doctor Balis. I hate being so dependent on everyone for everything. It's like I have to ask favors just so I can get by. It makes me so angry! Jeez. Um, I'll see if I can work something out. I just want to live a normal life again. I want to be normal. And I don't want to screw things up with David. He's such a dear-heart. Doctor, do you think I'll ever be able to get my life back on track?
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Dr. Balis:
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Cassie, I haven't seen you for a long time and I'm not sure what your health status is at present or if your prognosis has changed. You seem to have a great deal of enthusiasm towards resuming your work life, and that's a positive sign. I think therapy may help you to keep things in perspective. Why don't you find a good time next week to stop by, and we can talk some more?
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Ms. Evans:
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That sounds good to me. I will talk to you again soon then. Thank you, Doctor Balis. Gosh, all I seem to do is apologize and thank people these days. Well, thanks anyway. Goodbye.
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Dr. Balis:
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Goodbye, Cassie. It really was a pleasure to hear from you again.
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Doctor Balis' Notes on this Telephone Call
Transcripts of Cassandra Evans' Therapy Sessions
