Trust in those who interact and support you is essential as a parent of a special needs child. Every day has challenges, and it brings expectations that those involved in that support deliver what is needed.
The supposedly simple act of ordering and collecting a repeat prescription for much-needed, life-saving medicines should go smoothly. We trust both chemists and doctors to make that happen. When we arrive to collect the medication, a blank look on the chemist’s face signals concern.
“Your GP has not signed them off,” we were told. “You will need to speak to them”.
A subsequent conversation with our GP informed us, “Your chemist has not sent the request through.” Our hearts sink. We are back at the Chemist, as the GP will not talk directly to them, and they insist the order has been placed. “The computer says …” is the inevitable reply.
Why does it have to be this difficult, and why can we not trust people to do what is needed instead of my having to be the go-between to get the issue resolved? As each hour passes, we are nearing the moment when we have no medication to administer to our son, which in turn heightens the risk of severe and life-threatening consequences for him.
We have so much that requires our intervention each day. It is a sad fact that even processes that are set up and should work automatically, fail. Another day, travelling between doctors and chemists, making phone calls to verify each step has been completed, and all the time, the hours count down to the weekend when both are closed, and nothing can be done until Monday.
Trust is essential and so valuable. I wish those who are involved understood and embraced it.
