Re: A Day in the Life of a Deaf person

Professionals,

It started last week when I became sick with what I thought was simply a sinus/chest infection. I though I caught it from taking care of my son who was also sick. My doctor couldn’t see me on Friday so they put me off until Monday. However there was still no interpreter at my Monday appt. She and I had a short pen-n-paper conversation and she
quickly made a referral for me to go to emergency dentist appointment the next day. I was not clear about Tuesday appointment only being consult, not the surgery, so I already rearranged childcare and emailed professionals and canceled interpreters on Wednesday. After long day Tuesday I came to understand it was only a consult. I will have the actual surgery (all 4 wisdom teeth, not just two as I thought) in June. No interpreter at either emergency appointments, so naturally I was unclear about the reason for follow-up appointment.

Truly, I feel stupid for already telling everyone about the oral surgery plan. I feel confused about what’s proper way to deal with this situation.

This is just another example of miscommunication typical for deaf people. I hope this email give you a good idea of how frustrating it feels.

Lastly, I'm still sick with both sinus and dental infections. I can't eat yet but I'm on meds and hope to be better for final exams.

Thank you for listening,
Sara