Today I snuck into the pediatric unit at Doernbecher. It brought back a lot of memories of my childhood, but it was like seeing it through new eyes. I was walking the halls and I felt like I was suddenly in the shoes of my mom. Looking around the walls are full of art and hope. Bulletin boards and pamphlets line every nook. How to prepare your child for surgery, how to cope, how to … I walked into the play room and my first thought was why do we not have these at OHSU? I am proud to say that I stole a picture of Ariel to color and I just finished the beautiful work of art. When did we become too old to color? Too old to create? Too old to hope?
There was a display of wishes written on stars and I wondered when we became to old to make a wish? On another wall there was a collection of PostSecrets written by kids with CF. Reading these I was amazed at how inspiring and encouraging and uplifting the words of these children were. Somewhere between the line of pediatrics and adult care the voice of hope was stolen. Instead of hope we were told to accept the brutality of life. Now I realize that most people in there 20’s don’t spend time in the hospital. They don’t get sick in such severe ways. At 20 we are all invincible. But Hope doesn’t have an age limit. If you are 7 or 70 hope is an option. You are an inspiration. Live it, breathe it, and don’t let the world tell you any different.
kari- you are right. your life is a lot more demanding than others. but reading this I feel so inspired. Look at how far you have made it and how many doctors you have proven wrong! Continue to fight because you are needed in this world. I will be thinking about you but just want to tell you that I look up to you and appreciate that your life is a lot more complicated than others- and you don't deserve it. Thanks for continuing to be an inspiration to those around you!
ReplyDeleteI love this Kari! "Hope doesn't have an age limit"...love it! You are such an inspiration!
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