We arrived back to port last night after our short trip "out to sea". It was surreal to be up on the deck last eve- a beautiful sunset, cool breezes & clean very blue water. You could close your eyes & dream of being on a cruise. That was much needed for many of the medical staff on board. The staff I work with are sharing many stories now of the events that have touched their lives....many of these stories & pictures are tragic. I try to be a caregiver of the caregivers. They have endured unimaginable things that we can hardly comprehend. I am here for just a short time & am happy to be at the phase where kids are recovering. I am down to about 9 kids on the ward. They are all getting better which makes me so happy. We have a little boy who lost a leg & an arm & had a wound on his only foot that started to look bad...I couldn't even imagine what life would be for him if he lost it- today he went to surgery & is improving. Thank God.
I am struck by how hard the earthquake has been especially for the teenagers on our unit....some of them have serious injuries, but all will recover. Yet, they remain very quiet & difficult to engage. My goal is to make 1 more teen smile each day. I greet them in my best French; most can understand & I hug them- it works wonders.
I have watched a 16 yo teen who had aweful facial injuries get better & she now sees how beautiful she still is!!!
The pediatricians that I work with from U Mass & North Carolina are fantastic & I am learning so much.
I have asked to go on a transport tomorrow & will see what happens. We plan on discharging about 5 kids tomorrow to the mainland & have found good places for their recovery. Well, it is chow time- gotta run.
I have read your emails & blog comments & I am humbled by your responses.
Have a good night!
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Hi Kathy! So glad you have replenished, and so happy for the beautiful sunsets, and the good news of the kids getting better..the caregivers are truly lucky to have you helping them make it through this horrible ordeal..I couldn't think of anyone I would want more for my "caregiver" in times of real sickness. You were blessed with that healing touch..it is all who come in contact with you who are really humbled! Life on shore continues to move swiftly..my kids at school are doing great. In fact, since this disaster, I have really been extra thankful that I am still able to do what what I love best ( next to eating, and drinking good wine and...)...teach those that are seriously challenged. I have come to view them and my job in a whole different light..we are indeed, very lucky! Keep those spirits up...Patty
ReplyDeleteI hope you get to go on the transport tomorrow but it will probably be a sad trip even though the progress being made every day must be encouraging. I'm sure they will prepare you for what to expect. Don't worry, I am still keeping the world safe from nursing students...today, one was excited about seeing " a real live code" ( as opposed to what I'm not sure!)Take care!
ReplyDeleteKathy
ReplyDeleteThis will make you laugh - it only has taken me until now to figure out how to post a comment!!! Aren't you proud of me I yam!!!! I've been checking your blog daily and praying that all will go well for you and your team. I think what you all are doing is short of amazing and I am with you in spirit!!I really wish I could be there to help too. The kids are so lucky to have you as their caregiver and I am sure you are their "Favorite". You're mine too. See you soon!!!
Yea Annette.I yam a yam, thought that would make you laugh, Kathy!
ReplyDeleteKath,
ReplyDeleteYou have such a powerful spirit and your energy is a force of nature! I know you have been a bright light for everyone on that boat. I love you. XOX