My job can be difficult. Usually it's emotionally difficult because the kids I work with have had terrible beginnings. They haven't had much given to them in life and they've had a lot taken away. It's very difficult to keep my chin up and not get discouraged or frustrated (or so sad I want to give up). But every once in a while, one kid will do or say something that makes it all worth while. I cherish these moments because they get me through the rough patches.
Right now I have one particular case that's become very special to me. It's a 9 year old boy who has had the sort of past that no child should ever have. He's been at our facility for almost 3 months while his caseworker has tried to find a family that fits with him. He's become a favorite of mine (and I try very hard not to pick favorites, but sometimes they just pick you). I've become his "nurse Alex" over the past few months.
Last Saturday, our car club participated in Ogden's annual Christmas Light Parade, and I was on our float. The staff at my facility brought the kids to see the parade. When I got to work today, my little 9 year old yelled "Nurse Alex! Nurse Alex! You're famous! You were in the parade!" I wish I had seen him in the crowd (he was so disappointed that I didn't). Another staff member told me that when he got back from the parade, they asked "Did you see Santa Claus?" and he replied "No! I saw Nurse Alex!"
A few weeks ago, they found a family for him. He cried (and I did too) when he told me he was getting a family and a home for Christmas. I'm so happy that he's happy; he deserves it. He leaves Wednesday to go with his new family and even though I'll miss him, I hope he doesn't come back because it means he is on to a better life.
These are the good days that make the rest worth while....I must remember and cherish the good days.
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