The Way Your Heart Sounds

Today was Jimmy’s appointment with Dr. Kramer. Lauren had to work, but she arranged her lunch break with her boss so she could be there for him afterwards. When she called the doctor this morning and asked him to do a cardio workup on Jimmy, he asked her to be there for a recap of what his recommendations were.

Lauren couldn't help but feel butterflies in her stomach. She truly didn't know how bad Jimmy’s addictions were. The thoughts reeling through her head had her feeling like she was awaiting a terrible diagnosis, or waiting for test results with potentially grave consequences. Once it was time, Lauren walked quietly to Dr.Kramer’s office. The door was cracked open, so she knocked before peaking inside. Jimmy was sitting there with the Doctor. He turned around and smiled at her.

“Lauren, glad you could join us. Have a seat,” Dr.Kramer said. Lauren took a seat next to Jimmy, who grabbed her hand.

“So Jimmy and I had a long conversation. We had some tests and things done. I'd like to share my thoughts with you,” the doctor started. “I've already told Jimmy that I strongly recommend he check into a rehab facility for at least thirty days. But as he's told me, his work obligations may make him unable to do so…”

“Jimmy, you know the guys wouldn't mind if you needed some time away from the band,” Lauren said, turning towards Jimmy. He shook his head.

“We’re in the middle of writing an album. I can't do that to them,” he said simply.

“In that case, I suggest that he check into a detox center where they can monitor him around the clock while he goes through withdrawal. I’ll be there with him, and I will prescribe medication to make the process more comfortable. He will be there from seven to ten days, depending on how things go. From there on, I would like to see him twice a week for counseling. I also strongly advise that he join some kind of support group such as AA or NA.”

It was a lot to take in so far. Lauren nodded.

“Is it possible I can be there with him at the detox center?” She asked.

“They don't normally allow it, but I will make an exception for you.” A wave of relief washed over Jimmy, and he squeezed her hand.

“Moving on, I had a cardiologist do a preliminary exam on Jimmy. He found that Jimmy’s heart is enlarged. While this isn't terribly problematic on its own, it can be a hint of a larger issue. He's going to have more extensive cardiac work ups done. This could also explain the arrhythmia that you heard, Lauren. It's great that we caught this now. While I worry about his heart during detox, I know he will be in good hands at the center.”

Lauren could hear her own heartbeat in her ears. She rubbed the back of Jimmy’s hand with her thumb and nodded in understanding.

“The cardiologist believes Jimmy’s drug use may have caused, or contributed to his heart issue. We hope that by getting him clean, we can prevent any further complications. This is a good first step,” Dr. Kramer said.

“When is he starting detox?” Lauren asked.

“I have him booked for tomorrow. He can go home, pack, and get things in order tonight.”

After a little more chatting, Lauren and Jimmy left together with a lot to think about. Since Jimmy was most often with the guys when he was drinking or using, she thought that all of them should get together and discuss Jimmy’s treatment so they’re all on the same page. When she brought it up to Jimmy, he agreed with her and said he would invite everyone over to his house later.

Later on, the guys started to show up at Jimmy’s house and took seats on the couch. Johnny, however, went straight into Jimmy’s kitchen.

“Yo, Jim, why is there nothing to drink in here?” he yelled from the kitchen.

“That’s kind of what we brought you guys here to talk about,” Jimmy responded. Johnny made his way out from the kitchen with a look on his face, and joined them.

“So Jimmy saw a doctor today to discuss treatment options for his drug and alcohol use,” Lauren started.

Matt piped in with a “dude, that’s great,” and a smile, which made Jimmy smile himself.

“Jimmy is going to a detox center tomorrow, and he’ll be there for a week while he gets sober. Once that’s over, we’re going to need you guys on board to help make sure he doesn’t relapse,” she continued.

“Of course we’re on board. Whatever you need, Jim,” Zacky said. The others nodded in agreement.

“So like… can we not drink in front of you? What happens when we go on tour? There’s alcohol and drugs all over the place backstage…” Johnny said, trailing off.

“In the beginning I would prefer you don’t drink in front of me, just cause I’ll want to join in. As for backstage, I think that’s why Lauren wants you guys to be aware of what’s going on. She can’t always be with me at shows, but you guys can,” Jimmy explained.

“We can get you some of that non-alcoholic beer crap,” Brian suggested. Jimmy nodded.

Once they had discussed the matter a little further, the guys all hugged Jimmy and wished him the best of luck during his treatment. They went home around eight, which didn’t leave Jimmy much time to get his stuff packed up. Lauren helped him by giving suggestions for things to bring. He packed some comfortable clothes, toiletries, and his ipod, among other things. Once his bags were packed, he sighed and sat down on his bed.

“I can’t believe this is finally happening…” he stared off into the distance, “Holy crap. I need to call my mom. I haven’t spoken to her in days. Do you mind?” he asked.

“No, of course not. Go ahead.” Jimmy pulled his phone out and dialed his mother’s number. He then put her on speaker phone. Lauren assumed that he wanted her to hear his mother’s reaction. They started their conversation, and then Jimmy told her he had two big pieces of news for her.

“Are they both good?” she asked. He chuckled.

“Yes, this time they actually are. The first one is that I have a girlfriend now,” he started. His mother gasped.

“Aww, who is she? What is she like? When do I get to meet her?” Rapid fire questions. Lauren smiled and looked at Jimmy.

“Her name is Lauren. She’s a nurse, she’s absolutely adorable and sweet. You can meet her soon, I promise.”

“So happy for you Jimmy. Can’t wait to meet her. What’s the other piece of news?”

“I’m going to a detox center tomorrow. I’m getting clean for good.” There was nothing but silence for a few moments.

“Serious?” she asked quietly.

“Serious. I’m done drinking. Done with everything else too,” Jimmy said. His face went soft when he heard his mom sniffling.

“That’s the best news I’ve ever heard,” she whimpered. Lauren rubbed Jimmy’s back and smiled at him. He chatted with his mom for a bit more while Lauren just listened quietly. He said goodbye, and she said she wanted to see the both of them really soon.

“I never thought I’d get to tell her that, really,” Jimmy mumbled, stuffing his phone into his pocket. Nodding in understanding, Lauren wrapped her arms around him.

“I bet she’s so proud of you. Just like I am,” she murmured. He smiled shyly and kissed the side of her head.

Notes

Enjoy! Thoughts and comments are welcomed as always. <3