How many times have we heard, "It isn't fair."? Lately, in these times of political turmoil and economic uncertainty, we've all heard it quite a bit. But what I've learned as a nurse working with the pediatric population, is how to deal with what is "not fair" by using courage and hope as weapons.
If we really want to consider what is "not fair", take a look at a 4 year old that has leukemia and is going through a regimen of chemotherapy. No one should feel that kind of nausea, fatique and misery, let along a young child. However, every day, young patients and their families are given a diagnosis that will cause them to question their faith, themselves and the fairness of life.
But, instead of running from their problems, they face it head-on and find the strength and courage they didn't know they possessed. They choose hopefulness over defeat on a daily basis. Every time that young patient goes through a painful procedure, or is given a dose of a drug with toxic side effects, they show me they possess the characteristics of a brave warrior. One that is not afraid to fight against an enemy, while still holding onto a dream for a better tomorrow.
For any pediatric nurse, watching a young child undergo a chemo regimen is a lesson in the will of survival. I've found myself in awe of their fortitude and inspired by their hopefulness. They have taught me that fairness is not something we truly control, but how we handle the unfair times in our lives, will determine how others see us, and, ultimately, how we see ourselves. This is a lesson that we all can benefit from, both in and outside of the medical profession.
Vicki Hodgins, RN