My Support Network

This week I had a journal prompt to describe all the ways I am supported in my life.  I had a golden opportunity 10 days ago to draw on this support, when my son Caleb (6) had a serious accident at the playground, and sustained a mild concussion and a terrible open fracture in his forearm.  We went to the local hospital for immediate treatment, and then transferred to Matilda in Hong Kong for surgery the next day. Here is my journal entry on my support system.

First and foremost, my nanny & helper Violeta.  She took care of my daughter and pets, round-the-clock when needed, as my husband Adam and I spent time in the hospital with our son. Every day as I take time to study and write, Violeta takes care of my home, making sure I always have a clean place to work and a neat home to come back to when I’ve been away.  I am so grateful to have her loving care for my children and pets.

My husband’s extended work family, who helped arrange Caleb’s surgery with a top orthopedic surgeon in HK, and worked out kinks in dealing with our insurance provider.

Our new Friends at the HK Quaker meeting, who held Caleb in the Light.

The doctors and nurses at Matilda hospital, the emergency medics who quickly arrived and took care of Caleb at the accident site, and even the doctors and nurses at HCSJ whose care I wasn’t thrilled with, I’m grateful they were there. It definitely could have been worse.

All our local friends who offered to play with Caitlyn while we were away, and Dona who watched Caitlyn while I needed Violeta to do some running around for me the day of the accident.

All my overseas friends and family who sent encouraging messages and videos to Caleb. He was really touched.

The lovely man who watches the door at my condo.  We have almost zero language in common but his warmth needs no words.

Our capoeira family who continues to love and challenge and encourage Caleb, even with his injury.

My sister and brother-in-law who sent “Get Well” gifts to Caleb (and Caitlyn too).

My pets who are always up for a cuddle.

My favourite restaurants who are always welcoming to me and feeding me well.

Coffee, for being the miracle it is.

My bed for being comfortable and solid.

Game of Thrones and Twin Peaks, for being there when I need to check out.

My husband Adam for being an excellent friend and partner, lover and co-parent.