Day 4:
Today was an eye opening day as we reached the middle of our trip, finding a continuous movement creating a stable rythm of seeing patients. We saw extrordinary loving family member show up for each other.
Our first family consisted of 3 sisters who had grown old together, taking care of eachother throughout medical challenges. The first sister named Anna went to the general seeking a wheel chair. Her sister shared her story to us, explaining how her mom had polio when she was pregnant with Anna. As a result she was born with cerebral palsy, blind and unable to communicate. This woman was 50 years old and had been taken care of by her sister for most of her life as her mom had died a few years back. It’s a miracle that she has made it this far in life. Her sister, the one taking care of Anna, was treated in gynocology complaining of breast pain. We soon discovered that this pain was muscular strain from the intensive care she gave to her sister, carrying her everywhere. Anna’s sister stepped up for her, making sure she was able to have a life. Anna’s sister showed love like no other, “that’s lifetime love” said by Dr. Austin.
The second family that we visited was Walter, his sister and mother. Walter’s mother told us about Walter’s history and medical malpractice. At the 11 months Walter developed pneumonia where he was hospitalized and developed sepsis. This blood infection resulted in cathadars being injected into his arms and leg. The catheter in his leg hit his artery instead of a vein leaving the doctors no choice but to amputate his leg. Throughout this process Walter developed Cerebial Palsy and lost his ability to communicate. Walter’s mother was filled with emotion as she saw her son being fit into a wheel chair and became more independent. Walter’s mother raised her children alone as her daughter also developed a learning disability. The two children connected most with their mother, resisting any assistance from anyone else. This affected the mom as she was not able to get a job.
These two stories displayed the love and connection that these families have for each other as they dropped everything to aid one another. Everyday on this trip I am filled with emotions and empathy for others and their story.
Team 924
Monika C & Mariana S team bloggers
