Courtney

Today I go to work at 3:00pm to look after a 13 year old girl by the name of Courtney. I have been caring for her on and off for about five years now. Courtney is functionally deaf-blind, fed by a gastric tube, mobilizes in a wheelchair and functions at about a four year old level. as well as the size of one. Right now I can hear all the people saying things like "Oh the poor thing!" and "What a tragedy!” Let me tell you, over five years ago I may have said the same thing. Caring for "Medically Fragile" children was about the last thing I ever wanted to do. They scared me far too much. They also reminded me of what can "go wrong" during a pregnancy. Courtney has provided a paradigm shift for me.
This little girl has provided so much joy for those who are in her life. You can't help but love her from the first moment you meet her. Even though she has the "deaf-blind" label she sees and hears everything you say. Her verbalization sounds more like a fast paced babble, but unless she is cross and probably swearing at you, her words will bring nothing but a smile to your face. She uses some sign language to communicate some of her "demands" (of which this 13 year old has just as many as any other 13 year old!!!) I have picked up alot of that language over the years.
She is also very "busy". I call her a "Toddler on Wheels". You cannot take your eyes off of this little peanut or she is off like a flash on that wheelchair into anything she can get her hands on.
Looking after this sweetie does take some energy, but it is some of the most enjoyable work that I do as a nurse. I often joke and say that I can't believe they pay me to do this and that I would do it for free!! I honestly would do it for free. I'm sure that Christ puts the little Courtneys in our lives to demonstrate His love for them as well as showing love and care for the "least of these" in the world. I'm thankful that this girl is in my life