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Ever since she was born, Jessica has received care from the infectious disease specialist, Dr. Mobeen Rathore, at Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Fighting a stubborn infectious disease coupled with an immune deficiency takes perseverance, careful medical care and a resilient spirit. Those words describe Jessica, who knows Wolfson very well since she has received treatment there over the years. Her frequent hospitalizations have given her a unique perspective that reflects her stamina and appreciation of the little things.
In October 2008, Jessica was admitted to Wolfson Children’s with a severe infectious disease. For five months she was in and out of the hospital, at one point staying for an entire month. During that time, she learned all about surprises. The doctors and nurses were surprised that she survived the severe infection that attacked her with more vehemence than ever before. As each day passed and she got stronger, her nurses and doctors marveled.
It was awful to be so sick. Weeks and then one entire month seemed like a long and tedious time to wait for her treatment to work. “The staff would not let me get bored, and I had many experiences that left me inspired rather than indifferent. There was the music therapist who came by and taught me how to play a musical instrument. I learned to make peaceful sounds like the ocean. When it was time to end our session, she would always leave me some of the CDs that I particularly enjoyed,” shared Jessica.
It was also very special when the hospital artist would come to Jessica’s room bringing art supplies. Together they would draw and, before long, the artistic process would refocus her energy and help diminish any discomfort or pain. When feeling well enough, Jessica loved to go to the art room where they would color drawings together. Once a UNF art student came and Jessica posed while the student sketched her. She gave Jessica her portrait to keep. “Experiences like these helped pass the time so I was not just stuck in the room.”
Other surprises included a big dog that came around to visit patients and, although Jessica is scared of dogs, she was impressed that dogs can help in the healing process. A candy trolley rolled through the halls offering snacks and balloons. Nurses and volunteers came in and played board games. The scenario was always changing, but the theme of care and concern was constant and heart-warming.
In summary, Jessica said, “Most people say when they go to the hospital, ‘I want to go home.’ And I know it sounds crazy, but I would do it all over again because they treated me so well. Someone was always there to make me feel at home. That is the best medicine of all when you feel sick.”
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