A stranger in the doctor's office

Yesterday, I took my son to get a check-up and to make sure he was caught up on all of his immunizations. Upon arriving at this doctor’s office, I was greeted by a bunch of shocked faces.

While my ego would love to believe the amazement was due to my good looks and savoir faire, I know the truth.

Granted, I was the only man in the facility. But, is it really that extraordinary to see a father taking his son to the doctor?

And, it didn’t stop with the looks.

Being that this was our first visit to this particular facility, we had to go through an intake process. The nurses spoke to me as if they were unsure that I knew anything that had to do with my son’s medical history. Often, they repeated questions. I was halfway waiting for them to ask me if I knew what two plus two was.

It was that type of experience.

I explained to the nurses that since my son’s birth, I have taken him to all of his doctor appointments. For one thing, I have the more flexible schedule. Secondly, my wife can’t stand seeing my son get a shot.

She actually cries more than he does.

So, I do it. To me, it’s nothing out of the ordinary.

Apparently it is.

The nurses and the doctor seemed genuinely amazed that I knew so much about my son’s health history. Not to mention the fact that I knew how to fill out his health questionnaire. They actually applauded me for it like I applaud my son when he accomplishes something.

One nurse actually said, “Yeah, Daddy!”

All that was missing was the clapping.

I really didn’t know whether I should take it as a compliment or an insult.

I did feel that it was a little demeaning.

I like to think of myself as a good father. Still, I would like to believe that I am not the only one who takes his child to see the doctor.

Personally, I rather enjoy it and find it important to stay abreast of what is going on with my son.

Is that so strange?

As it turned out, my son was indeed caught up on his immunizations. All he needed was a flu mist – a flu vaccination given in the form of a nasal spray.

No more scheduled trips to the doctor until he’s three.

Hopefully, we won’t go through this again.

The Wizard has spoken.