Skill and Care

I have said it before yet it bears repeating: the care and outright love we received from the medical staff, especially the nurses, in the NICU meant so much to us.

Stories. Wow could I tell you stories. Late night chats. Early morning smiles. Plain speak about lousy medical test results. Hugs. Shared tears. Warm greetings. These are some of the experiences we had with our medical care team during our time in the NICU. These experiences helped forge lasting bonds as well. We had an occasion to visit the hospital just the other day (more than a year after our stint with Jacob), and bumped into a staff member from our time in the NICU. She actually remembered us, and we exchanged big hugs. The moment felt as though we were long-lost friends.

I have spent my fair share of time in hospitals and medical clinics. From illnesses to sports injuries, I have received a variety of care from a variety of medical professionals. That care varied not only in type, but also in the level of love, respect and concern. My history allows me to bold enough to say that what we experienced in the NICU was true service, not of the consumer/provider type, but of the type that reflects gifts from God to each of these skilled members.

Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace…. – 1 Peter 4:9-10

Due to the wonderful response we received as a part of the fundraiser golf outing, we look forward to, in a small way, returning the favor to these wonderful people.

Perhaps more importantly, I hope to use their example as a template for my service to others. Meeting the needs of others when they are crushed, devastated, depressed, and hurt makes such an incredible impact. Sharing in their joy, successes, and hope is also important.

Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. – Romans 12:15-17

These are tough things to do. Yet these wonderful people do them every day. They truly are an inspiration.