You are so brave, and I am very proud of you.

Dear future patient,

You are going to be okay. I know you are scared, I know the machines are beeping in your ears. I know you just want to go back to the fourth grade. You want to return to dance class, to football camp, to your art studio. But listen to me, you are going to be okay.

I know you don’t want to be in this place. The white walls and smell of disinfectant remind you of some of your worst days. The nurses and doctors poking and prodding you, and asking you questions when you feel ill must be incredibly irritable. You can cry, you can scream, you can tell me you hate me. I will listen, and I will understand. I understand because I don’t think I have ever met a person who enjoys being given shots. And having multiple necessary, intensive surgeries before even learning how to drive a car simply doesn’t seem fair. I know that. I am sorry that you are sick, and I want to do everything in my power to make you feel better.

Here is my promise to you:

I promise to hold your hand until you ask me to let go. I promise to be your friend. I promise to hold you when you feel faint. I promise to be your eyes, your ears, and your voice when you are weak. I promise to do everything I can so you are always comfortable.

Future patient, you are so brave. I am very proud of you, and I will be by your side every step of the way. Let’s get you back to the fourth grade.

Love,