Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Day 20 -- Helping give kids nasal flu vaccine at Elementary School

"It is one of the most beautiful compensations of life, that no man can sincerely try to help another without heping himself."
---Ralph Waldo Emerson

Today I helped in the makeshift flu clinic at my daughter's elementary school. About 200 children were receiving the nasal flu vaccine spray. The volunteers escorted groups of children from their class to the portable classroom, which normally serves as the instrumental music room, and after checking in at the desk they took a seat until it was their turn.

I was so impressed at how brave -- and trusting -- the kids were, especially those who hadn't had it before and didn't know what to expect. As a mom who asks lots of questions and proceeds very hesitantly when it comes to even seemingly simple medical procedures, I found it especially sweet that these kids just "went with the flow" and didn't complain a bit. Actually they seemed to enjoy the shared experience, afterwards talking and giggling about how it made their noses feel funny.

There's nothing like spending time with cute, healthy kids to put you in a good mood. I left feeling very cheerful, and of course in awe of the teachers who spend not 90 minutes just watching/supervising kids (as I did) but rather the whole school day teaching, inspiring, and nurturing them. They're my heroes!

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