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Ms. Evans:
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Dr. Balis? This is Cassandra Evans. Do you have some time to speak?
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Dr. Balis:
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Hello Cassie. Of course. It's been some time since I've heard from you. How are you doing?
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Ms. Evans:
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Okay. Well, not okay. It is such a knee-jerk reaction to say, "I'm doing okay." I mean, most people are so wrapped up in their little worlds they really don't want to know how you are actually doing. Anyway, I am sorry I haven't called sooner. I am just so worn out. Even talking on the phone has been a bit much for me. I am still living with my grandmother. She's been an angel to me. She also arranged to sub-let my apartment and to notify people at SII that I am taking a leave of absence. I have yet to hear back from them, but that is the least of my concerns right now. I am just trying to recover before putting my life back together again.
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Dr. Balis:
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You do sound ill. Have you spoken with Dr. Halsey?
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Ms. Evans:
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No I haven't. I did leave a message, but I might have neglected to leave my number. I met this guy who says he has the same diagnosis--his story sounded similar to mine. He recommended a specialist in CFIDS, some physician who was trying new things. So I went to him. The doctor was a total--excuse my language--schmuck. He said at this point the only thing that could help me is to have my blood boiled--they take massive amounts of your blood out and literally boil it and then give you a transfusion of it. He also said they could try massive radiation and chemotherapy. Well to say the least, I was not pleased with his suggestions. Actually, I was quite upset by the whole experience. He talked down to me like I was an idiot and made it sound like my case was hopeless. I really want to remain positive about everything, but I am beginning to doubt my ability there too.
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Dr. Balis:
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Perhaps you should try calling Dr. Halsey again. I can understand why you might want to try using other doctors...
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Ms. Evans:
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There are quite a number of practitioners out there who prey on chronically ill desperate patients, such as me.
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Dr. Balis:
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Dr. Halsey may not be a specialist in CFIDS, but he's learning and is genuinely concerned.
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Ms. Evans:
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I suppose you are right. I wish there was a quick fix. I just keep seeing myself getting worse and I am afraid. What is my future going to be like? What kind of future do I have? Will I need a care giver to constantly watch over me? Who is going to want to take on that kind of responsibility? I have all these questions and there doesn't seem to be any answers.
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Dr. Balis:
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Well, I wish I could tell you everything is going to be fine, but you know as well as I do that there are no guarantees in life. Just take things one day at a time. The most important thing is to feel comfortable with your support system--including your health care professionals, friends, family, and care givers. Those who truly care about you will be there for you. You need to have some faith and trust in them.
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Ms. Evans:
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I guess. I am starting to feel faint again. I think I should hang up and rest. Can I call again to talk some more?
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Dr. Balis:
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Of course Cassie. I'd like to set up some sort of appointment system in the future, but for now call me when you can, okay?
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Ms. Evans:
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Thanks Doctor. Bye.
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Dr. Balis:
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Goodbye Cassie.
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Doctor Balis' Notes on this Telephone Call
Transcripts of Cassandra Evans' Therapy Sessions
