By Tillie-Rose Wallis
‘Doctor Tells Me’ – a poem composed in unison with the creation of the accompanying painting
The doctor tells me ‘everything is normal’
Yet I am still tested, poked and prodded
I am still consumed by pain
The words of comfort believed; based on a knowledge I myself do not possess
The doctor tells me ‘come in with a full bladder’
Gulping down water for my own bodies sake
The doctor tells me ‘change behind the curtain’
That cold, wet gel pressed onto my stomach, spread by the hand of a stranger
With sounds of beeping monitors and surging liquid
The doctor tells me ‘Just a little bit of pressure now’
Whilst greys in contrast dance across the screen
A screenshot is taken
The doctor tells me ‘over 20 growths’
The doctor tells me ‘everything is normal’
Yet I am still tested, poked and prodded
I am still consumed by pain
The doctor tells me ‘remove your shirt’
Unknown hands on my warm flesh, pushing and squeezing
Permanent marker makes shapes on my skin
That cold, wet gel pressed onto my chest, spread by the hands of a stranger
The doctor tells me ‘you’re young, under 25’
But I still feel It there, a beacon of reminder
Featured Image – Tillie-Rose Wallis