on “Stand up straight and realize who you are, that you tower over your circumstances. You are a child of God. Stand up straight.” ~Maya Angelou These words saved me today. When I felt myself start to crumble, instead I stood a little straighter. Now is not the time. There is work to be done. Benjamin’s… Continue Reading Day 760/132
on The construction crew of the new hospital research building worked all night long last night, pouring the concrete slab on the top floor. Every time Benjamin woke up to urinate, or something beeped, or someone came in to check vitals, I’d glance outside and see men in hardhats dangling from harnesses or climbing up ladders,… Continue Reading Day 756/128
on This morning, it was Banyan’s turn to be brave. He needed a tetanus booster this summer and today was the day. He was dreading it. Benji taught him his Jedi mind trick–just don’t think about it–but that’s easier said than done. When it was go time, I honestly wasn’t sure how Banyan would react. But… Continue Reading Day 537
on It was another sweet day spent with family. Benji had a little bit of nausea when he woke up, but it resolved with time and a bath. Once he got past it he felt great all day. A little too great sometimes; his spiciness has returned full force. While I’m grateful for what this means… Continue Reading Day 311
on We had a very sleepy morning here on the seventh floor. We both slept well last night but woke up frequently. Our night nurse was less experienced than her colleagues, and Benji’s morning blood draw took longer than usual. By the time we woke up for the day and completed Benji’s skin, mouth, and eye… Continue Reading Day 281
on Michael and I both had a hard time sleeping last night, so when Benji padded in before 6am asking for breakfast, I begged for more time. But his hunger turns to pain so quickly. He clutched his tummy and I jumped up and headed for the coffee maker and my first of many cups throughout the day.… Continue Reading Day 263