Tonight's picture was taken in February of 2009. On that particular day in clinic Mattie's art therapists were designing a hand painted sign for the inpatient pediatric units. Both Jenny and Jessie asked if Mattie wanted to put his hand print on the sign! He said.... NO!!! Then I suggested his foot, and Mattie jumped at the chance. Mattie used "Curious George," the only limb not operated on or impacted by cancer. To this day the sign and Mattie's foot print remain on the fifth floor of the hospital.
Quote of the day: When you cease to make a contribution, you begin to die. ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
I personally believe it is vital to push the cart myself! It helps me see the effectiveness of the cart, how it is being utilized, and to interact with the families we are trying to support. Naturally I want to stock the cart with items that will be helpful, and I can only know this by seeing it for myself.
Do you see the Georgetown sign I wrote about in the background? Mattie's little red foot print is on the top right hand corner.
I got to see the reactions of parents and children for myself today as the cart revolved around the units! It was a great experience. Though the cart is for family members, if parents and nurses allow pediatric patients to visit the cart, we naturally welcome that. One child was so excited today that she filled up an entire drawstring bag with candy! Her whole face was beaming. So many parents can't believe that someone is there to offer them items for FREE. I interacted with many grateful and gracious parents and couldn't help but remember when I was in their shoes.... deeply stressed out and sleep deprived.
While at the hospital I also ran into Mattie's lung surgeon, Dr. Chahine, who I absolutely love! He is not only a very competent surgeon, but he has an incredible and compassionate bedside manner. He visits all his patients post-surgery.... he doesn't just send a resident to do follow up! Dr. Chahine is also a Mattie Miracle supporter! In addition, I ran into several of Mattie's nurses, our case manager, and the wonderful administrative lady who works the front desk of the PICU. It was like visiting my second home in a way, and given that Mattie died on a Tuesday, it seemed even more meaningful to visit today.
1 comment:
Vicki, Your quote tonight affects me deeply for the truth of it is very real! Thanks, Margy
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