Down on my luck?

May 27, 2016 1:07 AM

igotabetterjob

Views

47560

Likes

2219

Dislikes

139

Story time?

Last night (05/25/16) at about 9p my wife received a phone call from out daughter's pediatrician (after taking her to the DR. and getting blood drawn earlier that day due to her brother having mono and her running a high fever) stating that we need to take our little girl, Addison, who is 13 months old into Mary Bridge Children's Hospital in Tacoma, WA. I'm from Lacey, WA. Reason being is her white blood cell count (specifically the ones that fight off bacteria) were lower that what they should have been. Take her up there late at around 10p and get admitted into the ER right away. They did so many tests, including urine tests, blood tests. Including shoving a cathiter up her who-ha. Takes everything in me not to rip someone's head off that's hurting Dad's little girl. The way she screamed at me and looked right at me while I had to hold her down. I'm a big guy, and I can do a lot, but I crumbled inside. I was beat. Next we get put in a room because the tests aren't showing that she's better from the first blood test. So they are great up there, and they really take care of her, but at this point, she's been poked and proded and stuck with an IV, and I know this is all here to help her, but it still hurts.

About 8a the next morning after getting her vitals ran about every 1-3 hours through the night, lack of sleep and everything in between, I told my wife I'll run home and grab a couple things from the house. (New underwear for the two of us, deodorant, toothbrushes.) Walked out to my truck and see my passenger side window smashed in. In the parking garage RIGHT near the security office. In the rush to get my little one into the ER last night, wife left her purse on the passenger side floor and they took it. Nothing else, like my oakley sunglasses, my $80 shooting ear muffs. It just hurts me. Crumbles me again. So I call the police, they just call back and then right up a report, spoke with Hospital Security, they don't have cameras there. Nothing they can do.

Luckily, wife had all IMPORTANT stuff in the diaper bag with us. Wallet, ID, checks, things of that sort. They got away with about $150 worth of make-up? Idk, I'm a dude, so I guess that's bad, and also her pretty necklaces and bracelets she just got from a friend.

Wife calls our insurance and our deductible for the window would be $500 or we could call around and get a quote, turns out our agent already did and got us a great quote at about $189.99 plus tax. That's great, other than it's coming out of my pocket and that always sucks. So I leave the hospital, head straight to the glass repair shop and walk in and let them know I had an appointment and that I'm not sure if I'll be able to pick it up same day, seeing as I don't know when my little one will be discharged.

They said, "Hey, don't worry about it. Since we have your spare key, it can sit in the lot all night, cameras and under the street light." "Also, hey..it's a free replacement window, don't worry about the cost." "We heard about what's going on with your little girl and we want to help!"

I'm 6'3," 225lbs with beard, I'm an out doorsy type guy, I like guns, and whiskey, and babes, and bad ass dogs, and holy shit I started crying. I start a new job tomorrow, and it's something new that I've never done before, and I want to make sure I'm doing the right thing for my family, and BOOM, this hospital visit hits, no sleep, someone breaks my window and I have to pay almost $200 in repairs! I just broke down.

I'm very grateful for the kind people that have helped my family and myself, and I just needed to get this off my chest. Little one is doing okay for now, they say she's stable and will be going back in for a check up on Tuesday.

Don't care to be downvoted, I just wanted everyone to know that it always get worse before it gets better. So if you guys have any questions, let me know. I'm your imgur!

TL;DR
Took kid to the children's hospital, truck broken into while there, company fixes my window for free because they heard my kiddo was in the hospital.

*Update*
I guess I should update the folks that have been asking. Addie came home yesterday at about 4p and they said her levels were stable, not worse, not better. She's been doing great so far. A little more crabby than normal due to her 4 teeth coming in, but no fevers, nothing like that. Since I have a new job starting today, and continuing on Tuesday, my wife will be taking her back in to get her blood drawn and to get tested again. If her levels are lower, they're going to test her bone marrow and the hematologist is going to be looking for Leukemia. If her levels are staying the same, she's just got a virus that her body is fighting off, and if her levels have risen, it means she's getting better.

I never wanted to get to front page, I don't even know what that means. I'm just mind blown from all the kind words people have to say. Even though there are those people out there that are negative nay-sayers still saying that, "This is life, get used to it." For you, it gets better guys, so stop being so damned negative. Get out and make friends. There isn't one person on my street. (neighbors) that I wouldn't go out of my way to help. Just be a good person and good things will come back around to you. I've witnessed it first hand.

Also, wanted to let you guys know that I REALLY enjoy going through the comments and answering any questions or reading your comments, you guys are freaking hilarious. Love the positive vibe from you guys. Keep on keeping on IMGUR!

Great job dad-ing @OP!

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 1

Best of luck with your job tomorrow. I'm sure she'll come out just fine. You've got some of the best doctors in the us right here in the PNW

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

I'm reading this and I'm crying. Deep breaths. It's going to be okay. -Centralia, WA

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

My oldest is 4, has hypothyroidism.She's required labs every 4-6 months since birth. It's a bit easier now that she's older, still sucks. 1/

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 1

I'm glad everything worked out! seriously fuck the dude who broke your window the fuck

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 1

Hi, I had heart operations at Mary Bridge when I was younger. Your daughter is in good hands. Sending kind thoughts <3

9 years ago | Likes 52 Dislikes 0

My daughter has had 2/3 in Seattle children's. For single ventricle. It's good to hear of people who are on the other side of this.

9 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

Thank you so much. Hope all is well now.

9 years ago | Likes 10 Dislikes 0

Stray strong! - from nearby in Port Angeles

9 years ago | Likes 20 Dislikes 8

Same from Centralia. Stay strong and stay positive even if it doesn't look so good

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

That's a new low. Breaking into cars in an Emergency Room parking lot? Glad the princess is better though!

9 years ago | Likes 7 Dislikes 1

Thank you so much.

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

I went to school in Lacey. Sending good thoughts back to the PNW for you OP

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 1

PNW for LIFE!

9 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 1

Got your 6 fam....it's gonna get better. Will pray for your family.

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Thanks "Goose"

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Who the fuck breaks into a car parked at a children's hospital????!!!!

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Please give us an update when you hear about daughter. Sending you good vibes

9 years ago | Likes 10 Dislikes 0

Did they ever find out what was going on with the white cell count?

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Not yet. Levels are stable. Not higher or lower. Going back in on Tuesday to see if they've gone up or down.

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Spending months in the hospital with my son, I know how that must feel. I am happy you're happy. I wish the best of health for you're girl.

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 1

Its been over a year since this was posted, just wanted to check and see how things are....

8 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Just as good as it gets for a two year old. She’s spoiled rotten and living life to the fullest.

8 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Tacoma is the worst! Especially around the hospitals. Hope your little girl gets better soon!

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Take care of your cub papa bear. You got this.

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Hugs to you and your family. Your baby will be better in no time with a cute little tutu on.

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

@op that's Tacoma for you, I got my car stolen in Lacey last year.

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

There's TONS of break ins in my neighborhood and I'd say it's a "wealthy" neighborhood too. I'd expect roaming security or something.

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Fuck the guy who broke into your car , I hope all is well and wish nothing but the best brother.

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 1

Happy for you OP but why do guys always have to preface a normal emotional response with their size and how "manly" they are?

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 1

Just remember, it's always darkest right before they turn on the light!

9 years ago | Likes 16 Dislikes 2

thanks Dumbledore

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

My little sister had an illness called ITP OP, it messes with white blood cell counts. Keep an eye out for bruising. Grats on the job! <3

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 1

Thank you, we are looking out for ITP, it was meantioned in the discharge to make sure we look for bruising. TY for the heads up.

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

You're welcome. It's most noticeable after an infection as the platelet count gets low but most kids grow out of it.

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Would've upvoted but then came the classic cliché "I'm a big guy, I've got a beard, blah blah but I cried"..

9 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 3

Why would any of that effect emotional reactions? Do you grow a beard and eat lots/work out to try and suppress emotions?

9 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 2

Ok, photos of a cute kid followed by broken glass on a passenger's seat is a horrifying series of images. That aside, glad things worked out

9 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0

in regards to the window. Best of luck tomorrow!

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Thanks!

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Give your little one a great big hug. Deep breath...you got this.

9 years ago | Likes 48 Dislikes 1

Indeed op. That's my whole coping strategy. Deep breaths and little steps.

9 years ago | Likes 6 Dislikes 0

I'm the BEST and keeping my cool. But when I finally got some help from someone, I just lost it.

9 years ago | Likes 8 Dislikes 0

Is she better now?

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Even super dads need a little TLC and support. Watched my dad go through the same thing when my little sister was in hospital.

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

HOW IS SHE?!

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Sleeping like a baby. Her levels are stable and we're getting another check on Tuesday.

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Oh thank god. Glad to hear it

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

I pray everything goes well for your daughter and your situation. Congrats on the new job, and know that you're loved!Wish the best for you!

9 years ago | Likes 5 Dislikes 2

Thank you so much.

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 1

I though it was crystal meth

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

To each his own I guess. You can try and melt it and shoot it. Don't think it's going to get you anywhere lol

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

@op Stay Strong.Hope your girl is ok :)

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 1

Thank you

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 1

No Problem.That employee deserves a raise.

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 1

I want you to know it hurts us just as much to draw blood/do IVs on little ones as much as it hurts the parents.

9 years ago | Likes 339 Dislikes 4

Thank you for your beautiful work.

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

Whereas on adults, some times you just want to stick them when they've been a pain in the arse!

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Thus the saying "be polite, I choose the size of your IV". Going to be an ass? I got a stash of 14g longs somewhere...

9 years ago | Likes 2 Dislikes 0

Amen! Funny how the nurses always find each other

9 years ago | Likes 1 Dislikes 0

We do it because we know that end the end it will help them. But seriously. That's the worst part of my job I believe.

9 years ago | Likes 115 Dislikes 2

I take it you're in the medical field? Thank you! Not God, thank you!

9 years ago | Likes 72 Dislikes 3

We do it to help. Never to harm. And you're welcome. Keep us updated on your daughter. Things will look up! :)

9 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 1

That right there is honest thankfulness. So sorry for the shit storm that you've run into.

9 years ago | Likes 24 Dislikes 1

Thank you kindly.

9 years ago | Likes 11 Dislikes 1

For what it's worth, in the lab the paediatric samples are always handled with the utmost care and urgency.

9 years ago | Likes 8 Dislikes 0

Lab person?

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

For seven years, until last summer - I quit to study full time

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Unite! Left two years ago after 8 years in different labs. Wasn't getting anywhere, but I loved the science. What are you studying?

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Maths and Physics - a bit of a departure, but to be honest I couldn't see a future with the NHS the way it's going. What are you doing now?

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

Thank you for the job you do. My oldest kiddo requires frequent labs for her hypothyroidism. I've been a Respiratory Therapist for 1/

9 years ago | Likes 17 Dislikes 1

For 16 years & I still try to avoid working with the kids. They cry and then I cry. I'll forever stick with the adults.

9 years ago | Likes 9 Dislikes 1

I wanted to be a Ped Nurse, first clinical rotation I had to get an IV for a 4 year old little girl, I broke down and couldn't do it. 1/

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 1

April 14, 2013 parents run in our ER with 6 week old (he was already dead), we coded him over an hour. His name was Billy. Parents were 1/

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

2/ in the room the entire time. I admire anyone who works peds. How do you survive dealing with that level of emotion everyday at work?

9 years ago | Likes 3 Dislikes 0

2/ Im a guy, but I'm a softie

9 years ago | Likes 4 Dislikes 0