Waiting
June 20, 2019, prompt: In 99 words (no more, no less) write a story about having to wait. Who is waiting and what for? Think about how the wait impacts the character or the story. Go where the prompt leads!
If you want to participate, here’s the link: https://carrotranch.com/2019/06/21/june-20-flash-fiction-challenge/
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He chuckled when he asked, “Where did you say you’re calling from?”
“Flor’da,” I replied. “I’m looking for my brother. His friend said he was in this hospital.”
“I’m not able to provide any information.”
“Look!” I yelled out at the insufferable jerk. “He has Down Syndrome. He’ll be frightened!”
“I can say he wasn’t in an accident, but HIPAA rules… I can’t tell you anything else.”
“What do hippos have to do with it?” I asked. “He’s not an ape in a zoo.”
So… until I can hop a plane to Oregon, he’ll wonder why he’s all alone.
That HIPAA thing has caused more problems than it brought benefits. It’s funny how it is uphold at the most ridiculous of situations, and yet broken when it REALLY shouldn’t.
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You must have been chained to that law at one time (or possibly now), too.
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What a terrible event! And a good response to the waiting prompt.
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My day job is doing work that helps people with developmental disabilities. It seemed a natural fit. 🙂
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Well, you did an excellent job taking your expertise and making a story with that inspiration!
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Thanks. 🙂
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The poor guy! Great take on the prompt.
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Thanks.
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While the situation is disconcerting, Joelle, I couldn’t help but smile at the agitated comparison of HIPPA to hippos! It does seem that ridiculous when you can’t get information on a loved one released for their betterment.
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