Hope....

My dad had a stroke on Saturday. He is super private so I won't overshare, and I work for the most amazing company so I am able to take time with my family and be present. My dad will get better. 

When he was in intensive care, I wanted certain things for him: he wasn't allowed to have flowers, so I asked my brother to get him balloons. I needed his clothes - you know the plastic bag they throw everything in - I didn't like that bag. I wanted them in the closet. I guess I wanted him to be comfortable and I wanted everything to be just right.

My dad is a fighter, and he is getting stronger every day. We graduated out of critical care and we were moved to a different floor. I packed his things and his new supplies and grabbed the balloons. When we waited for transport, I asked him if I could give the balloons to the people in the room next door. 

I peeked in, smiled, and offered the colorful balloons. The patient's husband was so touched. He asked if he could come out and meet my dad. He came out and thanked him and told him to get better soon.

It wasn't until we got in the elevator that our nurse said: "Everyone doesn't leave our floor. You were kind to share. You gave them hope".

The effort was minimal; the impact was huge. Although we were deep in our own stuff, there were 20 beds in our unit with terrified families. 

I am focused on my dad. That's what's important to me. I want him to feel safe and loved so he can get strong. I can also share smiles, compassion and empathy with the other patients and families here. Give hope.