Melançon Enterprises • a multidivision multinational since 1980

I am making sure I do not have a sexually transmitted disease, which meant getting blood work even though I hate it. I know I was at risk in my short sexual history, one possible Went in last Monday, to Planned Parenthood in Somerville. It's not that easy to find places that do the asymptomatic tests. And it does cost money if you don't have health insurance (and probably something if you do). They tell you in advance, though, which is very progressive for the medical profession.

Supposed to be results within a week, and if they don't call, you're clean— but I got a call the Wednesday after I went in, saying the lab had lost my blood! So I think I'll call tomorrow to check. (I went in last Thursday for the re-drawing and after two tries of missing my veins – and I had a 60% blackout, though no one noticed – the very nice person practicing on me called in the nurse.)

Of course, in the meantime, you live as if you do have an STD and are a hazard to those you love. And damn, herpes (what I know I was at risk for) doesn't need sex to transmit (for type 1 in particular, which apparently as a result they estimate some 80% of people have), it's like, don't smile at someone affectionately.