rhonda

This morning I visited my friend from school who is at the new Shands Cancer Hospital.  Truett was having an MRI done across the road at the old Shands Hospital, so it was the perfect time for me to visit. 

 
I was told I could cross the busy street or take the tunnel. 

Now, it's been a long time since I walked through a tunnel, and I began imagining a dark, dim, rocky tunnel leading under Archer Road.  The same kind of tunnel where students have been robbed and assaulted.  After all, I had my Nikon with me, so I conjured up all the possibilities I could do to protect myself.  I would kick and scream if anyone tried to take my camera or purse from me in some dim, dark tunnel.  I could do some real damage if I fell on them.

But the tunnel I crossed through was well lit, shiny, spic and span.  As I walked and walked and took rights and lefts, I finally let out a tense breath and arrived at Rhonda's room. 

I knew I was nervous about visiting Rhonda because I didn't know what to say to someone battling cancer.  I was so nervous I couldn't even get the stupid latex, size 5 gloves onto my size 7 hands.   So the first few minutes of my greeting to Rhonda was, "How do you get these gloves on?  I can't tie this gown.  Does it tie in the front or back?" There I was being totally needy at an inappropriate time. 

Wasn't that ridiculous?  Here we have a wonderful, kind, caring friend with a smile for everyone, fighing the battle of her life.  And I'm struggling to get a glove on.

Rhonda looked great.  Her new hair cut was becoming and she appeared rested.  She had gotten some good news this morning, but that is for her to share.

I told Rhonda I wanted to photograph her and she said it was okay to do so.  I wanted to show everyone how beautiful my friend  was this morning.

When I left I headed to the tunnel and asked God to forgive me for being selfish.  I prayed for Rhonda and my mother and asked that I be a better friend to those in need.

P.S.  Would you believe I got lost in the tunnel on the way out of Shands South. 

Yep. I sure did...twice! 

Comments

[Sherry]

Thank you for sharing this.