When you have a child with a rare illness, specialists are kind and curious. Pediatricians are cautious. Those who know hug a little tighter and they mean it.
When Kelsey was in isolation and quarantine, a yellow stethoscope was left behind as doctors had to utilize this specific tool each time they came in to check her and assess her progress. She took it home in December of 2011 from the isolated room as a “souvenir” of sorts.
I have considered getting rid of it as it reminds me of a difficult time in our journey and there are also days that I look at it more as a yellow badge of courage for my brave girl.
This weekend, she checked us all out with the souvenir and made us call her “Doc” while doing so. It was joyful.
She wore the tool with pride and assumed the role of a doctor with grace.
During my check up, she spoke about her future. As I remain hopeful, I also fear the future and the unknown. When your six year old tells you that one day soon, she will consider being a doctor, the future looks brighter.
You smile and ask her why.
She responds, “Well that way, one day I can help find a cure while I’m at work. Then, I’ll take some home and give a little bit of it to myself.”
While I pray and hope that we work to assure that a cure is found before her white coat ceremony is possible, the sentiment sure made me smile.
To dreamers and believers everywhere, I hope your future looks bright this morning.