My recent back injury has led to a variety of tests, procedures, changes in medications, and more. I was required to wear a heart monitor for two weeks. My heart was racing because of the pain. I’m thankful that my doctors are thorough and pay attention to the details when I describe my symptoms. The device attached to my chest was not the only heart monitor; there were others. Rowan and Eden were also asking about my heart. I had three heart monitors. One was worn for two weeks. The other is the most special and I will wear it forever. That is the love of grandchildren who showed compassion and care.
“Mimi, can I see it? Does it hurt? Why are you wearing that thing?” Eden started with the questions. She needed to see the device and touch it. After showing her the thing that was watching my heart, she looked at me and smiled. “You’ll be alright, Mimi.”
Rowan took a different approach. “Mimi, will you wear that thing forever? Can you still play? When can you take it off?” His care was evident when we sat at the table and drew pictures. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see him staring at me. I wondered what his 8-year-old mind was thinking. He kept drawing, and every few minutes, he looked at me and asked, “Mimi, are you okay? Do you need a soft hug?”
My doctor prescribed a device that would check my pulse and heartbeat. Alan had worn a similar thing years ago, when he was experiencing palpitations. He knew how to apply the monitor, what to expect, and how to return it when the two-week period was over. That took some of the fear of the unknown away. Easy instructions were supplied. Having something stuck to your body for two weeks is awkward. I also had to carry a phone with me and keep it close to the sensor.
The results from wearing the heart monitor should be ready soon, and a plan will be established. I’m trying to be patient as I wait for a phone call or a message in the patient portal. I’ve learned that trying to decipher notes on the portal can be worrisome. It’s better to wait and speak with a medical professional instead of trying to understand the results on my own.
The love and care that Rowan and Eden show others brings me joy. They are concerned when someone is sick. They take care of their aging dog, Olive, with tenderness. I’ve seen them hug each other and give a pat on the back when something goes wrong. When there is a hurt knee, a broken toy, a disappointment, or another sad occurrence, both grandkids have shown compassion and love.
How do we extend love to others? Do we pause and listen when someone speaks? Do we reach out to people we haven’t heard from in a while and let them know that we miss them? Or does the daily routine take first place?
What about prayer and sharing time with God? When we rise in the morning and when we place our head down to rest in the evening, do we thank God for His blessings and forgiveness?
Wearing that device for two weeks allowed me to slow down, pause, and rest. As Alan prepared the box for return, packed everything in its place, and affixed the label, I breathed a sigh of relief. That monitor was gone.
However, my two most special heart monitors will be visiting soon and bringing love and laughter with them. One named Rowan and one named Eden.
Have a blessed day,
Mimi aka Melissa Henderson
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