Like a Movie by Jennifer Lagier

An interchangeable cast

of cranky actors costumed as nurses

or white-coated specialists

move in and out

of your hospital room.

 

They ignore the name

listed above your bed,

printed upon wrist band.

Wordlessly perform a variety

of medical functions.

 

So far, they’ve pricked

your finger, mistaking you

for the unresponsive diabetic

on the opposite gurney.

 

Administered respiratory therapy

intended for a guy across the hall.

Tried to dose you with

the incorrect chemo.

 

Food service bungles

90% of your orders.

Twice they forget

to deliver your dinner.

 

Over and over

you remind them

you can walk on your own

when they insist

on a walker or wheelchair.

 

You wonder if the pathology report

of metastasized malignancy

actually belongs to you.

Try to convince yourself

it’s just one more mistake.