A few days back Jackson's nurse for the day came in with something behind her back. She said it was for us but that she had to tell us a story first. "You know how yesterday we were talking about patients we get close to? Well there was a little boy named Charlie with heart disease who unfortunately didn't win his fight. His mom came back after he died to tell us all goodbye. I know Jackson won't be able to wear this for a while--but his mom gave me this onesie that Charlie was never able to wear and said to pass it on to another patient. I've had it in my work mailbox for 5 months and finally found the special someone to give it to." She gave it to Jackson.
Words fail us. The sadness of a battle lost, the awe and wonder at another battle being won, the grief and kindness of a mother, the grief and kindness of a nurse...all we know is we truly are blessed. Wonderfully, breath-takingly blessed.
ICU nurses are indeed special. Praying for you and your little man here in Texas.
ReplyDeleteTwo super heroes in one family! Charlie will want a shirt just like his baby brother's. I don't know how ICU nurses handle the stress. It's good to be reminded that it isn't because they are capable somehow of turning off all their emotions (who could?), but they just keep doing what they do day after day for the sake of others even though it is emotionally draining for them. They are a special breed. Looking forward to the day when we see little Jackson filling out this onesie in true super hero style.
ReplyDeleteSo true, Jenny! Love you!
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