An inch of snow can stall a city that hasn't seen any in 25 years. The highways were closed. Cars were skidding on inner city roads. Those who had a choice, stayed indoors heeding weather advisory. I thanked my four wheel drive as made it to the hospital, past cars spinning and freezing on the sheet of ice.
On rounds I was discussing the weather with all my patients. "Have you seen the snow yet? Open your blinds, look outside your window !" I was trying to share the excitement. It was quite the same feeling I have when I wish my patients "Merry Christmas" or "Happy New Year".. yes its an exciting day..but not one you wish to spend in the hospital.
The different reactions are interesting.
Waking up..rubbing his eyes...."What what..where am I?"
"You're still in the hospital..remember you were in an accident..you're still in San Antonio..but it snowed in San Antonio last night."
"Aah.. ok". and he goes back to sleep..snoring.. thinking its not one of the things he pulls his weight up for...actually there can't be that many of those things in his case.
He's always smiling although he's been in the hospital too long.. "Really? where? ..lets you and I go make a snow man" Really optimistic since neither him nor I can go... Really optimistic..given its just an inch of snow.
She's fed up being the overnight admit..she knows she'll be out later in the day..says.."Oh whatever.. I'm from Chicago! "
She's been in the hospital the longest. I don't even know if and when she's going to make it out. The mention of snow brings a glow to her eyes " Yes, I had the nurses help me stand up so I could peek at it... How I wish I could go outside" We spend a moment of silence looking outside with a mixed feeling..
I don't know if she was in the city the last snowfall 25 years ago.. but I hope she's around for the next one.
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