Life is really dancing after all, right? Steps, missteps, learning to pause, then swinging feverishly.
The great news is I am to remain in Paris for another 8 days, with free time to explore and consume all the chocolate I can, in good conscience. The not-so-great news is NO FRENCH WINE. The reason for no wine is rather complex. I`ll explain.
2 days before my departure I received word that my Quantiferon test was positive. Interpreted, simply, I have had exposure to the tubercule bacillus (Tb). I do not have active Tb, I am not contageous, I am not sick. My immune system has had a close encounter with Tb, probably while I was in Niger 2 years ago on another humanitarian aid mission. Exposure to Tb is a risk for all healthcare workers, even in the US, with 1-3% testing positive during a career, without going to Africa, Abkhazia.
I consulted with a Tb specialist and started on prophylaxis (preventive medicines for future active disease) the day I left for my assignment. There was no reason to change my plans.
All MSF France workers ( I work for France now) going into areas with multidrug resistant Tb are required to go to the Pasteur Institute. My meeting was yesterday afternoon. The specialist required that I obtain tests in addition to the ones I have already had, to start on even more meds, and to remain in Paris for another 8 days to repeat tests before going into the field. Different doctors, different protocols, same goal, to protect me first of all so that I might be of service to others.
The meds are hard on the liver, hence NO WINE. I am sure that Paris without wine will be even more glorious. My per diem of 25€ ( approx 32dollars) will allow for delicious bruchetta, chocolate, and regular trips to cafes all over town.
So, any friends, family who wish to join me (free lodging in the tiny hotel Paris Voltaire) are warmly invited to sit at the cafes with me.
And so, as are most dances, with twists, turns, deliciously slow moments, and wildly wonderful moments, I am dancing this one in Paris. What dance to move me into new spaces, new places, is yet to come.
Bonjour, genie
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Well, you really know how to pick 'em. A bacteria that isn't really hurting you, a cure that keeps you in Parisian chocolate and cafee fare, lucky woman. I'm glad they're taking care of you, and I know you'll soon be on your way to take care of other folks. Geez, I wish I could come visit while you're there! Much love, and keep up the dance.
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