Tuesday I went to Galveston---------
This is something I have wanted and also feared.
Most go to play on the beach and fish,I went to the Shriner's Hospital.----This is one of our burns units,I think you understand why I feared this.
I am not ashamed to say"I am a wuss when it comes to hurt kids." I slept very little the night before.
I got a call a week before from my new BFF -Bill.
Bill is the lead driver on this trip,me,the co-pilot.
We left the Shrine center at 5:15 and was on the road.Half way there,we stopped in Fairfield Tx. and ate breakfast at Sam's.In Galveston by 11:oo.
The hospital is at the end of the island.We stopped in the front and unloaded our passenger.
Went to the 7th floor to the cafeteria.While there,one of the Divan from Ft Worth came by and greeted us.( The Divan is what Shriner's call their leaders).
Later, as we waited in the lobby,I watched the kids play.I saw kids with no ears,no arms,and no noses.Some came by and waved or spoke.At a young age these kids know that the men in the Fez are the ones that help.As I sat there a young girl smiled and spoke.As she spoke I noticed her arms were hanging straight down.Her Mom sewed fake hands to her sleeves,this to make her feel better.
The kid we took back was burned all over.Face ,hands,and arms.This is what I dreamed about for two days.He had no nose.No hands.
I call them kids, but they are all Men and Women.Anyone that have gone through this much are grown ups in my opinion.
The Shriner's live and die for the kids.This is what I do and what I live for.
If you can,always give to the Shrine. Poohpa
P.S. Today is my son's birthday.Maybe this is why it bothered me so much.We are all blessed by God and we are all so lucky.
very proud of what you do.....love you
ReplyDeleteWell, I needed a good cry anyway. I am so proud of you for doing this; thanks to all your fellow Shriners. God Bless you all. P.S. I know, to all those who love you, you are "Divan". Hope your son has a great birthday! Tell Sondi hello for me.
ReplyDeleteYour post was hard to read Tee...I can't imagine how horribly hard it was to see these kids in person. You are a good man...and God Bless the Schriners for all of their magnificent work. ~Joy
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