I Was A Patient

Visitors come and go during this time, but I am unaware of most of them.

I am aware of one particular visitor, my roommate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where I had just completed my sophomore year and was waiting for acceptance into the School of Business for the next year. My roommate came with a girl that I did not recognize at all. I find out later that the girl was a friend of mine who I had planned to share an apartment with in Madison in the fall.

The days pass interminably. The only way I am aware of time is when certain nurses or aides are on shift, and even then I have a hard time distinguishing one from the other. Time of day is meaningless. I sleep constantly, although it isn’t restful sleep. People come to visit me and I recognize some of their faces, but that is where the distinction ends. I cannot identify how or from where I know each person. Some of these visitors write notes to me at the encouragement of my parents, notes that I don’t see until years later.

One of these visitors is my father’s co-worker, who is an artistic and wonderful Godly woman. In her note she writes:

Dearest Susan -

On Tuesday-as you face surgery-know that I will be praying for you. Praying that God will direct & grant the doctors with knowledge and wisdom. And praying that you will have His peace in your heart soul. You do not face this alone. Many are right there with you and I will be with you in spirit.

Next Monday, I have plans to come & visit you…