Seven Weeks in the ED

I have been in and out of rooms

Checking up

and checking in

I know you have been waiting

I am waiting with you

Waiting to help you understand

To help you learn and be prepared

I know you are scared

This will hurt just a bit

Maybe more

But you are the bravest I have met

What is this room

And these machines

You don't belong here

Neither do I

If I had my way

I would lock the doors

Kill the electricity

And raze this building

To never have to see another sick child

A child in fear

Of being poked or prodded

If I could absorb your pain

Into my skin and bones

I would do it

If my blood could be tested instead of yours

I would be stuck a thousand times

If I could swallow those pills

Or be casted in plaster

Just so you never have to experience pain

I would be a pin cushion

Or shattered bone

Instead of you

Dear child

Children

I wish we never had to meet

But since you are here

Let me hold your hand

Let me help you understand

We are just here to help you

To help you heal

To help you hope

To help you cope

Because you can conquer this

Cough, fever, cold

Broken bone, abnormal cell count

Elevated ketones, dropping heart rate

Whatever your fate

I will hold your hand

I will stay by your side