Divine Appointments

This morning after I dropped Bryson off I decided to run into Wal-Mart to see if I could find something I needed for a project for Caroline's nursery. I did not have an ounce of make-up on and hadn't even brushed my hair but decided not to worry about it. As I was standing in the middle of the aisle I looked up just in time to see a woman walk past the opposite end of the aisle. I just caught a glimpse of her but knew that I knew her from somewhere. My brain was in such a fog that it took me a few minutes to realize that she was the mother of one of the patient's that I had taken care of.

This was not just any patient. I started taking care of him when I worked for Dr. Farrow at the wound care clinic. He was paralyzed from the waist down and had severe pressure ulcers. It was not an easy job to do, but for some reason we became fast friends. Then, when I started working for the home health agency he came on our services. All of the other nurses had a hard time taking care of his wounds, so I became his nurse and got to see him every day (this was rare for an RN to do daily visits on any patient). He was kind and compassionate. He loved Harley Davidson. He loved movies and going to Sam's. He had many disabilities and made a trip to the dialysis clinic three times per week. He never complained. He was always happy and had such a positive outlook on life.

He had spina bifida.

He passed away, at the age of 45, about a year and a half ago.

So, when I finally realized who this lady was I knew I had to find her. I searched through the entire Bryan Wal-Mart and eventually found her at the back counter (maybe the layaway section? I couldn't even tell you what she was doing!).

I called her name and when she turned around and saw me there was an immediate smile that flooded over her. She hugged me and asked me how Bryson was doing. I told her that he was doing great, and also told her I was expecting again. Then I gave her the news about Caroline.

Tears filled her eyes and for the first time I was looking at someone who had truly been in my shoes. We talked for a long time---- in front of the Wal-Mart cashier (who listened very intently) and the rest of the people in line. She answered my questions about her son and his specific diagnosis. We shared tears and hugs, and then she told me that she would be praying for us.
I left Wal-Mart without even buying what I originally went in to buy- but I know I got what I really needed.

*****

This afternoon after a great birthday lunch with sweet friends I decided to run by Hobby Lobby to look for the item I was looking for at Wal-Mart this morning. I was searching through the aisle when I ran into the grandmother of another patient I used to take care of.
This little boy was no ordinary patient, either. I used to see him at least twice a week to draw his blood, start IVs, administer infusions, and just check on him. He was 10 when I started seeing him and he is now almost 15! Needless to say I spent a lot of time with him and his sweet family. I made visits not only at his house but at his grandmother's house as well.
I remember praying for this little boy frequently, especially right before I had to do anything that was uncomfortable for him (involving needles, etc...). I remember worrying about him.

I remember looking at his mom with such admiration, and thinking about what an amazing example she is to all of those around her.

So today I saw his grandmother. I have seen her a few times around town over the last several years, but have not seen her in a long time.

I asked about her grandson and their family, and then she asked about my family. Again I recounted our story, explaining what the doctors have found and the situation we are facing. Her grandson receives treatment from Texas Children's Hospital as well, so I told her how often I have been thinking of them with our recent trips to the same place.

She was again so kind and full of compassion. With tears in her eyes she gave me her email address as well as her daughter-in-laws so that I could keep in touch. She said that they will be praying for us, and I know that she will be very faithful in that. What a comfort and a peace that brings.

Right before I walked away I told her about seeing my other patient's mother this morning. She smiled at me and said "These are what we call divine appointments."

*****

I can't explain why I ran into these two ladies today, but I do know that God's hand was in it. I am so grateful for the tiny mercies that give me the strength I need to get through each day.