A week ago, I sent a message to my health care provider that I would run out of blood pressure medicine in a week so could she reorder more for me to pick up at the Palo Alto VA as I had 3 appts up there, and I would get it faster if I just pick it up rather than mail it.

After I finished my morning appointments, but before my afternoon one, I went to the Pharmacy to pick up my order.

The Pharmacist: We have a mailing address on file for you, so we have to mail your prescription.

Me: But I specifically asked that it be held here for me to pick up.

Pharmacist: No, we have to mail it.

Me: I took my last blood pressure pill yesterday, counting on picking up my new prescription today.

P: I can give you a 7 day emergency supply.

Me: (on the verge of losing it) Have you heard of the slide that closed Big Sur in Feb of 2024? Well that slide is between my post office and me. My postmaster has to drive around every Friday to deliver our mail, so it takes a week to get to my rural box, and usually a week or more for me to pick it up. One week supply is not going to cut it. I need a minimum of two.

P: I am only authorized to give you a week.

Me: Do you want me to have a stroke? (Eyes closed)…breathe in for a count of 5, breathe out for a count of 8. Breathe in for a count of 5 and out for a count of 8. This went on for a good 30 seconds in front of the pharmacist.

P: Your prescription will be ready at 12:30 pm.

Me: Is this for two weeks?

P: It is for 90 days.

Me: Thank you

12:30 pm

P: I am sorry, but we only had 7 days in stock. I have requested overnight delivery, so it will be here tomorrow.

Me: Thank you, I’ll be back and I am not leaving without that prescription.

I and my neighbors have been dealing with these kinds of issues since February of 2024. We adapt and overcome. How many of you could do the same? Is your “inconvenience” that you can’t reach your surf spot or your favorite camping spot? It is so much more than that for us.

Caltrans, San Luis Obispo? Sacramento…are you listening???

Post Script: It was ready by 9 an the next morning when I stopped it to pick it up.