A Kind Word

Do you realize that your words can help or hinder someone? After my diagnosis I made a choice not to start dialysis that day, but I asked if I could see a nephrologist. (A medical doctor who specializes in kidney care.) One was not currently available, so an appointment was made for that Wednesday . They had already started the discharge process and the final paper work was being signed. My mother was with me the entire time I was in the ER and as we were getting ready to walk out. I will never forget the look on my Mom’s face. A look of concern and fear for her son. The son that she had waited for, cried for and desired for so very long. What was going to happen to him? You see my parents had desired children, but were unable to have any for many years. They decided to go the adoption route and I am grateful they did. I can’t imagine where I would be today if they had not given me this wonderful gift. I sometimes wonder what was going through my Mother’s mind at the time of my diagnosis. Perhaps she thought, “Is this the way it’s going to end? Am I going to have to visit the graveyard to mourn the loss of my son? Will he only be a memory, that we share with each other around the holidays?” I was not the only one that had noticed her concerned look. The discharge nurse had noticed also. She touched my Mom’s arm and said, ” I am so sorry for you. I know the road ahead will be tough. I will be praying for you.” Just that simple, thoughtful action made such an impression on me through my time on dialysis and beyond. I have never forgotten that a kind word or action can make all the difference in the life of another person. A kind word or gesture can truly make a positive impact for years to come.