Returning To The Scene Of The Crime
This is Ryan Field in Evanston, Illinois. Football home of the Northwestern Wildcats.
I've been going to games there since I was in elementary school. Too many to count. Lots of losing football.
I was there Saturday to see the Cats lose to Northern Illinois. First time there in a few years. The last game there was a day that changed my life.
I was with my friend John. He's a Doctor in Indiana. You might see a ramp in the picture. We were walking on that ramp towards our seats and I guess I was doing some weird shit because it led to this conversation.
Doctor John: Dude, what the fuck are you doing Howie: Man, what kind of doctor uses dude and fuck in the same sentence? John: Serious man...you're zig zagging while walking. It's weird. I told you to see your doctor about it. ( I had done the same thing at Wrigley Field a couple of months earlier) Howie: And as a gynecologist, zig zagging is your expert opinion? John: (real serious) Listen man...something is off. I don't know what but you're seeing your doctor. I'm calling every day until you do. And when you blow it off I'm coming to get you and bringing my sister, too....and I know you don't want that!! Howie: Okay..Okay..okay! You win!
That conversation led to months of poking and prodding. Doctor's visits. Specialists. Mri's. Scans. You name it, I had it done. All which led to the Parkinson's Disease diagnosis.
Not exactly a happily ever after ending but it could have been worse. The important thing is I followed through. I got some help and continue to try to live with this. Like everyone else, I just do the best I can.
How'd it feel to be back at the scene of the crime? It was great. I even told the ramp story, without the dialogue, to the guy I was with. A longtime college friend that I hadn't seen in a couple of years.
And that's the focus of this story. Don't focus on the crap. Focus on the good stuff.
Go to games. Be with friends. Be active. LIVE!!
As for Dr. John...ok dude...you were right, thanks. As for his sister...she wasn't needed. PHEW!!
As for Northwestern Football 2014....OY!!