Kaimahi

 What a day.  What started out as a really long night that never ended turned into a day that had an exhausting number of ups and downs.  I finally found a perk from having worked as a nursing supervisor at Women and Infants Hospital.  Knowing Melissa in the ER shortened our time in the waiting room (more than 25 patients were waiting up to 9 hours!), bumped us to the front of the line for an ultrasound (only one tech for at least 8 scans booked!) and even a fresh cup of Dunkin coffee at 3am.  The ultrasound tech allowed me to be present and even printed a couple quick pics for us.  Yes we waited an obscene amount of time for each test and the results but it could have been so much longer.  

The transfer to RI Hospital sounded promising that Megan's infected appendix would be out lickedy split.  Nope.  As we were being transferred, we heard the helicopter landing.  A gunshot wound to the abdomen bumped her down the list.  But they did admit her to a beautiful room in the Co-op building where the bed and recliners were so much more comfortable (no roommate meant we could "steal" the second recliner).  We managed a couple cat naps before they rolled her out to the OR.  Nope.  They rolled her back.  Bumped again for a firework injury to a hand.  

Eventually it was her turn and Megan and baby girl Williams did great.  Home safe and sound and a speedy recovery begins.  

Such long hallways and multiple elevators from one hospital to the other, to the cafeteria and the OR/PACU and even the entrance.  Lots of steps that felt good after hours of sitting and being confined to a small space.  So many wrong turns.

                            Not sure if the signs really are confusing or fatigue was causing brain fog.
                             How can entrance and exit be the same?

                                                Very inspirational at a time when I needed some.

                                                Very well decorated window displays.

Once I was assured that my girl and her baby girl were good, I dashed home to shower and head out with Karen to Twin River.  Tyler Henry, clairvoyant medium,  was fascinating as he described his history and communicated with the other side.  Except for the many idiots who moved around and came and went repeatedly through the show, it was an enjoyable night.


Word of the day - Kaimahi.  Meaning a worker who labors with heart and purpose, not just duty.  It reflects the quiet dignity of those who build, heal, and help, carrying strength not in noise, but in devotion.   

Melissa in the ER, April the ultrasound tech and the PACU nurse who "snuck" me in to say goodnight to Megan.  All who showed incredible empathy during a tiring and emotional day.

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