When is the last time you bought or even read an actual newspaper (not online)? I have fond memories of watching my father flip through the New York Times every Sunday when I was young. As I teen I used the classified section to look for a job. And, when I was in my early 20’s, starting out as a journalist, I read the paper but I was mostly concerned with the coupons.

Today, I was sent on the hunt for a copy of USA Today’s weekend edition. I was featured inside a special insert. The article was in honor of autoimmune disease awareness month, which ends today.

When I got the email telling me about the publication I was thrilled. Then, I wondered how in the world I was going to find a newspaper in White Plains or Scarsdale.

I was in the hospital waiting for my father to get cleared for surgery so I asked a nurse. She thought the gift shop would have a paper. It no longer carried them; neither did the CVS, 7-11 or stationery store nearby. Finally, I thought of an “old school” store where I buy toys and candy sometimes. I headed to “Big Top” on Weaver Road in Scarsdale. It had two copies of USA Today. So, I got one for my dad and one for me.

The article is also published on a website (https://www.futureofpersonalhealth.com/rare-diseases/finding-strength-and-inspiring-others-after-17-years-of-misdiagnosis/amp/). But, I wanted to hold it my hands. I realize now there’s a rush you get when you flip the pages of an actual paper and see your name in print. It’s the same one I had when I got my first byline or published my first book. I made me feel official. I missed that feeling.

Perhaps what’s old should become new again. Reading an actual newspaper would save my eyes. The simple act of going out to get it and reading it silently for a few minutes could be a simple, welcome break. I certain could use more of them.

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