"What I Learned on My Hard Hat Tour" - A poem
We are often inspired by our patients, but this creative poem shows how inspiring our donors are as well...
"What I Learned on My Hard Hat Tour"
I learned that when I was complaining about my child not getting enough "ice time" in a game,
Other parents were hoping for five more minutes of life for their child.
I learned that when I was grumbling about the ugly tile in my master bath,
Another parent was walking down the hall to take a shower on the NICU floor.
I learned that when I was buying my child yet another electronic device,
Other parents were praying that their child's heart would someday beat without an electronic device.
I learned that when my breath is taken away by the sunrise or sunset,
Another parent may have just watched his or her child take one last breath.
I learned that when I cannot wait to get home after a long day,
Another parent may have spent their twelfth night in the hospital.
I learned that when I am anxiously awaiting my teen to come home before curfew,
Another parent knows their child isn't coming home at all.
I learned that when I'm complaining that it's either too hot or cold,
Another parent's child hasn't been outside in weeks.
But, I also learned that other parents will soon have a place to lay their weary heads, to lock up their
belongings, to shower in a private room, to observe a child in a play area where children will get to feel
the sun on their faces.
by Laura Halleran, Building donor