The Heart of a Nurse

I have been a nurse for almost 2 years now. My first year working primarily with adults and second with children. I love both for different reason and would not change my experiences for any others. My first year, I was exposed to many common injuries and disease and worked with incredible, experienced co-workers and physicians who took the time to teach me about each. I think God gave me that job to prepare me for my current job at TCH. Since working at TCH, I have been exposed to so many different, unusual, severe, and uncommon diseases. All devastating, severe or not.

I remember as a little girl seeing kids with severe disabilities and, as many kids do, staring; partially because I didn't understand and partially because I was sad for them. I would notice how every single person who walked past would stare, some disgusted by the characteristics that the disease gave the child; some confused as to why the child was the way he was; and some uncomfortable by the loud noises and motions the child would make. Many would hurry their children along or try to ignore it. Very rarely did I ever see a individual smile or try to talk to the child. I realize now that these parents, whether they meant to or not, taught their kids to treat these children different. 

I have always had a compassionate heart. Often times, I try to put my feet in other people's shoes to try to understand what they are going through and think of what I would want if I were them. In this past year, I have seen and worked with many, many children who have diseases with severe physical/mental handicaps. Yes, some do look and act different than many other children, but I have learned that their hearts are so so sweet. The most kind, loving, and innocent hearts. I no longer see them as 'different'. I have seen the love between them and their families. I am honored to take what little role I have in caring for these kids. Some days, when I look at the schedule for the day, I get excited for who is coming in because I know that he/she will always greet me with a smile and I my day will be brightened.

Though these kids are blessing to me, unfortunately other people do not see it that way. I have heard stories of these kids- severe and not- being bullied and picked on. Other kids and adults putting these children down to build themselves up. It breaks my heart and honestly infuriates me. There were times in my life that I was picked on and I remember how it made me feel, and to this day I have insecurities of some of the things I was made fun of for 10 years ago, but what I went through is no where near some of the stories of these kids. How could someone be so cruel.

What do I do to help? Can I even do anything? On a large scale, maybe not, but where I am and the few times I see these children, I love them and try to make them feel special. I give them my time, even when I may not have much.  I listen. I play. I do whatever it is that child and family need at that moment. 

I encourage you, nurse or not, young or old, whatever your circumstance may be, to do the same.