Today there was a worldwide computer meltdown that affected everything from airlines to coffee shops. The news focussed on crowds in airports, but small businesses suffered, too. I was momentarily affected by this, but saved by some cash in my wallet.

My day was planned around my annual medical check-in for blood tests. I still don’t have a family doctor after two years on a waiting list, but I am thankful for the services provided online and through a regional system of clinics and labs. An online tele-health doctor scheduled me for blood tests, but I could not figure out whether or not I needed to fast before the appointment.

I downloaded a screenshot of the appointment record just to be on the safe side. My problem was that although the system said the doctor was scheduling the tests, it didn’t specify which tests. The website for the lab was no help, either. I tried phoning the lab, but didn’t have the patience to wait for the “hold” music and promotions. I made an appointment regardless, and the one most convenient for me was at 2:40 in the afternoon, which is not ideal for fasting.

So, I compromised. I kept the appointment and woke up early enough to eat at 6:00 AM and then waited until the testing. I figured an eight-hour fast was better than no fast at all.

When I got to the clinic, I was processed promptly and advised right away that I did not need to fast. Gah! Thanks, guys. Better late than never. The desk clerk cheerily pointed out that the strip mall in which they were located provided multiple choices for places to eat. OK. Noted.

After I had given blood and had assured the technician that I knew how to access my test results on their website, I left to seek out the nearest Tim Horton’s cafe. Apparently, I can lie with conviction when I am hungry.

When I got to the coffee shop, however, I discovered that their computer system had succumbed to the global computer meltdown crisis. After three failed attempts to process my debit card, I offered up cash and the clerk was visibly relieved. Behind me was a line of potential customers at least one of whom declared loudly that he did not carry cash. As I sat eating my meal I overheard him and the clerk discussing the multiple times that the computer system was initializing.

After I got home I had arranged to have someone install a new faucet in my kitchen. His day job is as the maintenance man in my building and he moonlights to do small handyman-type work as and when required. After he had done the required work and included some improvements I had not anticipated, I asked him how he preferred to be paid. I was ready to sign a cheque, make an e-transfer, or pay cash. He asked first for cash, which makes sense. Fortunately, I still had enough cash left in my purse and was able to pay him with no trouble.

All of this gives me pause. I value all that our computer systems give us, but I also understand what it is like to need immediate reward for one’s work. Today has convinced me that having cash money in my purse, even if I don’t need it for months, is an important standby. The person I give it to may not be able to wait for a global computer glitch to be resolved.