Pepperonis and Punctures

Wednesday unfolded as Biopsy Day—a medical double feature nobody buys tickets for voluntarily. Phillip experienced the colonoscopy's all-inclusive vacation package (fully sedated, zero memories, complimentary dignity removal) by mid-morning. Early afternoon brought the liver's turn to be in the spotlight, where doctors wielded what appeared to be a harpoon disguised as a medical instrument, collecting their "tissue souvenirs" from four scenic locations across Phillip's liver. As it turns out, having your internal organs treated like a human cheese sampling platter results in exactly the kind of pain you'd expect.

Post-procedures meant Phillip could finally eat. This was a monumental moment for the hospital stay. What do you think he ordered? Fruit ice, (of course), pizza and some ice cream. My anxiety was through the roof watching him hit day two of the involuntary hunger strike. Seeing him finally attack that hospital meal with the enthusiasm of a food critic at a Michelin-star restaurant was like watching a nature documentary where the scrawny gazelle finds an unexpected oasis—beautiful, slightly awkward, and surprisingly emotional.