It might seem like I’m dragging this story out forever, but this time I actually have some rather good news to share.
**Good news #1** The hematoma on my buttocks—which I was warned might take about six months to heal—started shrinking rapidly around the end of May. Now it’s hardly noticeable. Maybe it has something to do with the seasonal change and warmer temperatures? In any case, I can go about my days without really worrying about it anymore.
**Good news #2** Because of this injury, I went to the orthopedic clinic four times (including the day it happened). I decided to apply for Montbell’s “Outdoor Accident Insurance,” thinking it might help cover some of the medical costs. As it turns out, in addition to the outpatient benefit (¥1,000 × 4 visits), I also received an injury medical benefit of ¥9,930—for a total of ¥13,930. Considering I even had a CT scan at the emergency clinic on the first day, the costs pretty much balanced out. But since I wasn’t really expecting anything, I’m perfectly satisfied with this payout.