When I returned to Oaxaca City I had an attack of Montezuma's Revenge. It's hard to know if it was a bug I caught in Santa Catarina Juquila or the result of the vegetable juice I thought would be good for me after a weekend of eating so many sope, forgetting about the potential hazards of eating uncooked vegetables without a skin.
I went to the doctor and found myself part of a study sponsored by the University of Texas for a new antibiotic to treat traveler's diarrhea. I was hesitant because I didn't want to spend my time going back to his office for tests, but the doctor assured me it would not be an inconvenience and I would receive compensation for my time.
He was right. The doctor and his nurse came to meet me at the Hotel Azucenas every time they needed samples, blood tests, or a new entry from my diary that documented the journey from loose to formed. Before the sun rose on the day of my departure, I wheeled my suitcase out to the lobby where I was greeted by the doctor who gave me a $100 bill and a letter from the University of Texas, respectfully thanking me for my participation in the study.
I was delighted that I crossed the border in reverse to earn US dollars, and that I actually got to experience a doctor making house calls. I also learned that in Mexico Gatorade is pronounced, not Gay-tore-aid, but Gah-toe-rah-day, though pointing and nodding worked just as well.
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