A few days ago I got a startling text message. One of my local friends had to rush her toddler to the ER for a serious infection from a bug bite. She’s been in the hospital now for four days.
These kinds of life events are often unexpected. If you get a call or word from a friend that a child is sick and hospitalized, do what you can to help out. I’m lucky to have local family, but many people aren’t that lucky. When you speak to your friend, ask right away what you can do. Sometimes it might be as simple as just listening, but there may be many other things you can do. Drop by and deliver a toy or game for the child. Bring mom some coffee or a treat. Deliver a trashy magazine or ask if you can stop by her house to get her gadgets like a Kindle, iPad or laptop. Offer to babysit other children in the family or to deliver meals to the family. Drop off a gift card to a local restaurant that delivers. Bring over some toiletries if she has to stay over for an extended amount of time.
Don’t forget to check in, but ask what the best way to communicate is. It may be better to email or text if the child who’s not feeling well will be sleeping often. Let mom set boundaries, but be there in all the ways you can. She’ll need it.
