"I never really knew this place existed," I thought as Deak and I drove up the gorgeous Fall tree lined streets of Federal Heights. I was reminded of area parades growing up and seeing older men riding bikes and wearing interesting little maroon top hats with tassels. I never knew who they were, or what they stood for. As I grew older, I recalled hearing about "Shriners" and I honestly believed it was a hospital for Jewish people...I had no idea.
As Deak and I walked in, I looked around at the surprisingly small, but immaculate building. There were only two women working at the registration desks, and there was not a wait. We were pleasantly checked in and offered some complimentary Girl Scout Cookies - which became helpful when Deakon decided eating 15 of them was due compensation for his time. I looked at the other mothers, there with their precious babies; some still in infant seats, some closer to graduating high school - but all of us with the same dream. I felt a deep connection with these women and their kind smiles of understanding. I knew their questions of "How old is he?" were empathetically-guided, and not curiosity-driven. My heart swelled when Deak blew kisses and waved to his new friends; I sensed he felt as peaceful as I.
We were greeted with, "I know I have seen this Deakon before; he has been my only Deakon..." by our amazing Orthopedic doctor. He had, in fact, seen Deakon...two years earlier, at Primary Children's Hospital. He remembered details of our visit, and allowed me to spend some time bragging about all Deak has accomplished since he saw him last. The doctor let us know that all of Deak's X-Rays were awesome and that he has FULL confidence he will walk well. He remarked about Deakon's charismatic personality and filled us full of hope. He also approved for Shriner's Hospital to begin treating Deakon with physical, occupational and speech therapy. I felt as if all of my "wishes" had been granted.
A day full of dreams coming true - just like Disneyland.
So, now I know.
I know that those darling men in those silly hats stand for something amazing. Their fundraising efforts are giving my baby the ability to walk.
So, the next time you have a chance to help any Shriner's Hospital... please do what you can. It is truly the happiest place on earth.
8 comments:
Yay! Flavia Weeden said, "you never know what miracles may come"
write a book so you can make the rest of the country cry when you write. please and thank you! i'm so happy for you and Deak i can't explain how much you inspire me. deak keep beating all the odds and reminding us that miracles do happen.
YEAH and ditto to what Kelli said. You are truely amazing and I get chills every time you write and entry on how well Deak is doing. I knew nothing of the place, but now I am inspired to find one near me. I couldn't be happier for your family. Deak is truely an angel who will continue to shock the world!!!!!
i love shriners. in my youth it was becuase the adjacent hill to the hospital was our favorite place to go ice blocking in jr high and high school... and in my little adult life for the miracles i have seen happen there. my good friends daughter just had surgery there. it truly is amazing. we love all the deak updates and we think you are truly inspiring... all of you.
sorry to not get back to you sooner about this weekend. i have been so indecisive it is embarrassing. i just barely decided about an hour ago that i am going to st george for the weekend. if you and abby can wait til another time.. awesome and if not we understand. :) i am sure we can be convinced to go whenever. let me know. and sorry again for the delay... :)
and sorry for the novel comment.
Shriners is great. We went there to get a brace for Emma's scoliosis. Sounds like you have a great orthopedic doctor--I LOVE good and caring doctors! You guys are awesome. He's a lucky little boy to have you for him mom.
I love your novel comments-no apologies allowed;)
Let's connect when you get back-we would love to whenever-of that I am sure. Even if it is time number 14.
Or, we could hang out and watch Disney channel;)
I linked to your blog from the Allens and was deeply touched by this post. I am an adult who experienced the magical healing hands at Shriners Hospital as a child. It is a magical place where magical miracles happen. Glad you found it and that it is helping.
Hooray...such great news. Shriner's is such an amazing place. Good things are on the horizon :)
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