#FromWhereIsit the constant beat of the ‘beep, beep, beep’ of medical technology is accompanied by the rhythmic ‘brrrrrrrrrrrrrrr’ of the inflatable mattress. The clank and rattle of nurses keys as they pace, waddle or charge toward a patient, depending on the crescendo of squealing life monitoring devices. One nice little addition to this hospital symphony, that is not generally a regular performer in our previous visits to this theatre, is the mewing cry of new born babies. I have the best seat in the house, right next to my sisters post-op bed.
I watch you awaken from yet another surgery, still recovering and being repaired, 10 years on, from breast cancer. Your pale face grimacing, unconsciously revealing your pain, more than you ever let us see when you’re awake. Your skin stained brown with surgical antiseptic and a vomit bag perched precariously by your side, telling us this hasn’t been an easy one to come out of.
We chat away thinking you’re asleep, with little snarly snores tricking us into thinking you would let us get away with a conversation, without you being involved. Your light speed wit and sharp tongue whip out a funny and completely appropriate response from your slumber. You will recall our whole conversation with biting accuracy, like you do for many details in all of our lives. Your incredible memory for fine details is a talent you apply to always buying the best gifts. Your strength is beyond human and truly enviable. Your thoughtfulness and constant dedication to your (and our whole) family is unmatched. Your dogged stubbornness will ensure you don’t stay a second longer in hospital than you so desire.
Intermission in this finale has us all preferring hunger when we see the fake chicken sandwiches cut into triangles and entombed in plastic. The tiny juices are just a trap – they seem to spill then leave tiny cuts on your lips, despite every tried and tested opening technique. The sound of the tea cart trolley has us salivating at the thought of the iconic two Aussie biscuits, until you dunk them in your tepid tea and once again hunger is the preferred option. But you do what you need to, to escape this hospital event. You not only meet, you exceed expectations – always.
#FromWhereIsit I am grateful to have you as my sister. I love you Katie. I will always have the best seat in the house if it’s next to you.
xk
