PCMC

Yep, I changed my title because this is my very own personal nickname on a daily basis. A few of my students go through this roll call before deciding which one to land on! It's funny, especially when one of my "tougher" guys does it and starts blushing because they don't want to look silly.

I decided this week that Primary Children's Medical Center (PCMC) is its own contradiction. I had to spend the better part of Thursday there as my 4-month old was being tested for cystic fibrosis (which, of course, he does not have). I have never been a fan of hospitals but the atmosphere in this one is so child-friendly it's almost pleasant. I observed many nurses, doctors, and other staff members interacting so warmly with every child that it made things a bit more comfortable. On the flip-side it is a children's hospital with sick to very, very sick kids. I watched as small children arrived at the outpatient clinic, where blood is taken or shots are given, and began to cry as soon as they saw which room they were in. It was sad. These kids obviously have to visit that clinic enough to learn to hate it. My heart goes out to anyone who has spent more than just a few hours there.