Monday, July 27--The Infirmary & the showers

Today's news ran a story about all the summer camps that have been closing early due to the Swine Flu. That started me thinking about a little discussed, and certainly un-sung part of any camper's summer; a trip to the infirmary. Most campers, if they were lucky never had to pay it a visit. Yet, tucked not-too-far above the Hill bunks, was a modern-ish, one story gray building that housed a fully staffed and functioning infirmary. It had a waiting room, examining room(s), an isolation room and a small ward. I know this, because I did some time there. There were at least two occasions where I was sick enough with a cold/cough to require overnight stays, and other visits for less serious circumstances. I know I broke at least one finger each summer playing volleyball. Though there were at least two nurses or med techs, there were some instances when we had to go into Pittsfield for X-Rays. I also had the pleasure of this experience; proudly returning with my badge of honor, a finger in a metal splint. There were also a few un-planned trips into Pittsfield for orhodontic repair. I remember sitting in the chair of some orthodontist who had the hairiest nostrils and ears I had ever seen...(You remember these things.)
Fortunately, we never had to endure the concern of a pandemic like the Swine Flu. However, one summer, we did come close. I forget what year it was, but right after the Camp Birthday celebration, nearly the entire camp came down with food poisoning. This, I'm sure put the infirmary into over-drive, and many of the older campers were confined to our bunk's beds and johns, while we toughed it out. I remember being pretty miserable. I can only imagine how the Directors had to handle it. We all pulled through, and no doubt, ended up joking about it. Needless to say, had it occurred today, the results might have been completely different...
And while we're on the subject of health, we should also discuss the showers. When we consider how germophobic we are today, the shower situation at Lenore would clearly send many of us running for the Purel. As Inters, we showered (required!) at least once a week. This entailed us schlepping over to the Lodge with our towels, soap and shampoo. The shower room was a group affair, with plastic curtains. and often inconsistently hot water. (Who knew what bacteria they harbored?) One did not want to linger there...The shower house at the end of the Lane was alot newer and offered more privacy. Despite all that, we all managed to survive without contracting any bizaare diseases. Which certainly was a testimony to our immune systems.