As I’m writing this, I’m hooked up to machines and having blood drawn every hour. I’m a
“research subject” at the medical facility I’m currently calling home. I didn’t know this until a few minutes ago. I knew they were running tests to see if they could figure things out, but no one told me I’d be the test subject.

I’m not sure how I feel about this. On one hand, I’m contributing to the knowledge base for the greater good. Perhaps someone who comes along after me can benefit from this experience. Theoretically, I’ll benefit from more in-depth study of what’s going on in my body and possibly find the best treatment.  But there is still a sense of “wtf” did no one tell me that they don’t really have a clue and I’m the first person they’ve had an opportunity to study.

Oh, and I questioned what the nurses were doing because it wasn’t what I signed up for. I dragged the truth out of an nurse…mainly because I refused to agree to treatment until they could explain why they were doing these tests. I know, blackmail is the strongest currency out there. You want my data, then tell me why or I’m out.

So, once again, caveat emptor. Read the Fine Print. Ask questions until you understand. No one else will do it for you. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll understand and appreciate all the guinea pigs that went before you.