"My Happy Place" (Katee's Story)

I am the nurse, Katee, that Tracy spoke so kindly of in the post entitled, "She's A Keeper." I was flattered by Tracy's remarks and appreciative of the opportunity to discuss my previous encounters with other Down's Syndrome children and their families. It has been refreshing to be in Tracy's home, entrusted with her precious Little Stinkerie, while she is working, and see a family truly embrace the gift that Willie is. My story begins a year ago, when I was placed in a 7,000 square foot home in a ritzy gated community, in the Santa Clarita Valley. My patient was a 3 year old twin diagnosed with DS. I was excited to work with her but quickly my excitement turned into anger and resentment. The family was using me to disclude their child from family outings, because according to them a child with DS can't appreciate Disneyland or trips to the zoo, beach, etc. This family was fortunate to have money at their disposal, mom was afforded the privilege of being a stay at home mom and chose to only play mom to her two "normal" (her words, not mine) children. My heart was conflicted. I felt like this child needed me. Because unlike her family I enjoyed outings to the park or mall. I proudly introduced her to friendly passersby. Eventually, her mom got rid of me, presumably because our relationship became so intense and our views were worlds apart.

My next client was unfortunately much of the same, but with an added twist. I was instructed to keep this beautiful child in her 10 x 10 foot room. She was approved for much needed therapies that she never attended because mom wouldn't make the 10 minute drive to the clinic. I did my best to teach her fine motor skills, teach her to walk, etc but I was frequently instructed to stop and turn the TV on for her instead. I did my best to educate the parents as to her capabilities and encouraged them to set goals and assist in her journey to achieve them only to be met with resistance and then later get blamed for her delays. It is said that opportunity knocks but for me it rang...

And brought me to Willie......

Here I am now, in my happy place as Willie's nurse. I am a part of a team working to make Willie the best little person he can be. I no longer dread going to work, but embrace every new day, every sign of progression and every kind word of appreciation. More than anything I am grateful for all of my experiences, good and bad, with these amazing kids. Each and every one of my patients will always be in my heart. (And hopefully I'll be in theirs)


Posted by Katee, Nurse Extraordinaire!
Thank you, Katee, for baring your heart to us.