I have witnessed bravery in women, but I have also witnessed bravery in children. Children have this beautiful sense of trust when you take care of them physically. They believe you can fix the "boo-boo." Unfortunately, sometimes as a nurse I can not fix their hurts. Mothers often have to sit at the bedside silently and watch their child be poked and prodded. This story is often on repeat for so many children with chronic illnesses. Yet, there is an unwavering bravery I have witnessed in children with chronic illness, and Lily is one of those kids.
I asked to follow our other team member Heather and her daughter down to the Mott Children's Hospital at UofM Ann Arbor. Lily is a patient at their infusion clinic and receives treatments for her RA. Some stories can only be told through pictures. Words can fall short, but emotions in pictures take you somewhere words simply cannot.
My hope in sharing Lily's story is that you will see: bravery in a young girl, the tenacity of a mother, the support of a little friend, and kindness in the hearts of the caregivers.
Written and Photographed by: Jenifer Veloso