The patients go by numbers, and I do not want to use their names here, so I will refer to them by their number. I have learned all their names, though (of the names that we know).
Patient 1 is a complainer. She is always requesting something or another, mostly to wash her hands. I can sense this has gotten old around the ward, but I decided to joyfully indulge her requests a few times. This seemed to make all the difference! This woman has not cracked anything remotely resembling a smile... and today... she smiled!! She even held my hand when I held it out to her (which is generally left hanging). It was so awesome to see this bed-ridden woman finally smile and seem to express a little bit of her comfort. I guess when you receive a smile it is hard not to return it after a while.
This next one speaks to the blog title.
Patient 3 is a very high functioning patient. She is very independent and quiet. She also eats very well (impressive for her miniature stature). Today during lunch time, I found a whole mango under her bed. I asked whose it was and no one answered, so I began to announce if anyone wanted it. She almost flew out of her bed to get it back. She was keeping it there for later. Or so I thought. After lunch, she asked me for some "pane". I handed her a glass of water and she took a few sips and motioned me to toss the rest. I did, but then she asked for the cup back. As I give it back, she reaches under her gown to retrieve the same mango, places it in the cup, and returns the protected fruit back under her gown. All of this done with a little mischievous, giggly smile as we share this secret from the massies. We share no common language, so we just giggle and indicate that we will not speak a word about what just happened. It was too funny! As I left, she blew kisses to me and we exchanged knowing looks.
Patient 4 slapped me today as I was trying to give her medicine... still working on cracking her smile.
Patient pretty girl is pretty as ever! Smiles every once in a while and it is a really nice surprise whenever I catch it.
New patient from the last post is still adjusting. Today I found her crying. Not sure why! But I rushed over to rub her head, face, hands. When there is no common language, I resort to touch a lot to convey my attention to the women. After a while, a smile peaked through the tears. I think she may just be overwhelmed with the new space, routine, attention... who knows! All I know is her broken femur is going to heal up real nice.
Patients 10 and 11 are quiet... hopefully smiles will come soon!
Other than that, I have helped with meds and food. Today I cleaned some wounds on my own. There are some really deep bed sores and such. After watching the Sisters and nurses for a few days, I have picked up the routine and they trust me to help now... which is cool! The Sisters are awesome and I am excited to get to know them more.
Thursday is the volunteer's day off, so hopefully I'll stop by the Calcutta Cathedral. We'll see!
No comments:
Post a Comment