Showdown
Part 12
No one said a word. The ER remained quiet enough to hear a pin drop.
Jing-Mei:
Please someone say something.Carter raised an eyebrow to her.
Carter:
So, are we happy, angry, sad...Jing-Mei:
Stunned, but happy.Carter:
Well, then we're happy for you.All at once, everyone came over and offered their congratulations to the expectant mom. Then one by one, they got a doubtful look on their faces.
Jing-Mei:
Alright, I know what you're thinking everyone. I already have two sons that Dave doesn't want anything to do with and now, with Dave in this condition that means this is another child that he's not going to take part in raising. Don't think those aren't the first thoughts that ran through my head when Cleo first told me and I also have my doubts but I want this baby. This may be my last chance for a family with Dave. If I don't have this baby and Dave dies, I will never forgive myself.Haleh:
Dr. Chen, if this is really what you want, then I am happy for both you and Dr. Dave and as far as I'm concerned you have my full support. I don't think I speak alone.Haleh turns towards the others with a forceful look in her eye. The others know not to mess with Haleh when she gets that demeanor on her and agree with her.
Abby:
How far along are you?Jing-Mei:
About six weeks. I should be due around July.Luka
(laughing): I have to hand it to Malucci. Even in this condition he still can't keep it in his pants.Mark
(smiling): Hey, Jing-Mei, if you'd like--we could arrange to have Dave fixed. I assure you he won't put up a fight now.Everyone stares at Mark while giving an occasional snicker.
Mark:
Sorry, it was a joke. I thought I'd get a better response than that. I thought it was funny. Dave would have even laughed at it, I'll bet.Jing-Mei:
Hmmm, no I couldn't do that. If Dave did get back to his old self and found out that it was missing, he'd never forgive me.Randi:
Have you told Dr. Dave, yet?Jing-Mei:
I've mentioned it to him upstairs, but I'm not sure whether he can comprehend it. I'll tell him again when he's more alert.Jing-Mei takes a deep breath and sighs.
Kerry:
Are you okay, Jing-Mei?Jing-Mei:
Yeah, it's just the news about the baby and Dave starting to wake up it's taking it's toll on me.Carter:
I know you better than that, Deb. Something else is wrong.Jing-Mei:
Cleo made my first appointment with Dr. Evans for tomorrow and I'm afraid of what she's going to tell me.Carter:
What do you think she'll say?Jing-Mei:
I don't want to know the baby's sex but for medical reasons I'm going to need routine ultrasounds. And during those ultrasounds, I'm worried that she's going to tell me that there is a problem with this pregnancy.Carter:
Problem? What sort of problem?Jing-Mei:
With the baby. I'm afraid that it may not be healthy or that I won't even be able to carry it full term.Kerry:
Why not?Jing-Mei:
Because of Dave. He has some very serious medical conditions, in case you've forgotten and I'm just a little concerned that they may be passed on to the baby.Mark:
That's not going to happen.Jing-Mei:
It could. What if there's something wrong with the baby's heart, or brain or it stops breathing or organ failure.Abby:
You are getting yourself all upset over something that probably won't even happen. I've worked in obstetrics long enough to know that 92% of all the babies born to a parent or parents with a disability or medical condition turn out healthy.Jing-Mei:
What happens to the other 8%?Abby:
All babies are miracles from god but those are our special miracles and those are the ones who need extra special care and love. If you do everything Dr. Evans tells you, you and the baby will be fine. I know it.Jing-Mei:
I'll follow her instructions to the letter.Kerry:
Good. Now, everyone back to work.The ER staff disengaged and went on about their business. Jing-Mei picked up a chart for her next patient, trying fully to concentrate on her work but found her mind wandering back to Dave and her bun in the oven. She walks out to chairs.
Jing-Mei:
Uh, Stever, Grace. Come with me.Several hours later, an exhausted Jing-Mei arrives home to see Mrs. Peterson sitting on the couch watching tv.
Jing-Mei:
Hi, Mrs. Peterson. Boys asleep?Mrs. Peterson:
Yes, they've been down for sometime. They did the cutest thing. Rusty tried to get Antonio to draw a picture of the dogs but they kept running around, he finally got hold of Lucky and held on to him and then had the baby try to trace him. Antonio put the paper on top of Lucky and Rusty held him and...Jing-Mei lets out a big sigh.
Mrs. Peterson:
Is everything alright? Dr. Dave, is okay?Jing-Mei:
He's showing some signs of coming out of the coma, but pretty much the same.Mrs. Peterson:
That's wonderful, isn't it?Jing-Mei:
Yes, it is. I'm just sitting here thinking that Antonio will be in a big boy bed soon, so I can move him into Rusty's room and then we'll have that as a spare room again to paint for the new nursery.Mrs. Peterson:
Isn't he a little young for a big boy bed?Jing-Mei:
He's over a year old, but he is small for his age. Then again, by the time the baby arrives, he'll grow into his bed.Mrs. Peterson:
That's true. Kids, they grow up so fas...Mrs. Peterson's jaw remains open as she realizes what Jing-Mei just said. She turns to Jing-Mei and mouths the word---baby.
Mrs. Peterson:
Did I hear you correctly?Jing-Mei:
If you heard about me keeping Antonio's room into a nursery after he's moved out, you did.Mrs. Peterson:
Baby?Jing-Mei gives her a smile and small nod.
Jing-Mei:
That's right. I'm due around July.Mrs. Peterson puts her hands to her mouth and remains silent. Tears gush down the side of her face as she heads over and gives her friend a hug.
Mrs. Peterson:
I am so happy for you and Dr. Dave!Jing-Mei:
Thank you.Mrs. Peterson:
Is there something wrong? You don't seem as excited as I thought you would be.Jing-Mei:
I am excited...at least I want to be. It's just...Mrs. Peterson:
Dr. Dave. You're worried about him.Jing-Mei:
I know that having this baby will be a good thing, but when I think of him and how sick he is, I can't help but wonder if he's going to be around to see this one born.Mrs. Peterson:
Wipe that thought out of your head, now. He's hung in there this long. There's no reason to think he won't be around for a very very long time. He's strong and he's not going down without a fight.Jing-Mei:
True...but I just want him to be able to enjoy the pleasure of being an expected father. He never got much a chance with either Rusty or Antonio. I want him there by my side when I deliver. I want...oh, forget it, for now. He's going to be fine. I have to keep believing that or I'll go out of my mind.Mrs. Peterson:
When are you going to tell the boys?Jing-Mei:
Maybe in the morning. Please don't say anything to them until I find the right words to tell them.Mrs. Peterson:
I won't say a word. Now, what would you like for dinner?Jing-Mei:
Not hungry.Mrs. Peterson:
Not good. You're eating for two now.Jing-Mei:
I ate at the hospital.Mrs. Peterson sticks her tongue out and gets a sick look on her face.
Jing-Mei:
I know---hospital food---yuck, but if it's good enough for my husband then it's good enough for me. Besides, all I want to do is take a shower and then head into bed.Jing-Mei stands up and yawns.
Jing-Mei:
Goodnight, Mrs. Peterson.Mrs. Peterson:
Goodnight---little mother.Everyone in the house was still asleep when Jing-Mei left for the day. She would just have to wait to tell the boys about the new arrival. Her shift didn't begin for another two hours, so she headed up for her appointment with Dr. Evans.
She waited thirty-eight minutes before she was finally called in. Dr. Evans accessed Jing-Mei and confirmed that she was definitely pregnant. She took some blood and then had Jing-Mei lay on the table.
Jing-Mei:
This is the part that I wasn't looking forward to.Dr. Evans:
Why not?Jing-Mei:
I know it's still too soon to tell the baby's sex, but if you have any idea either way please keep them to yourself. I want this to be a surprise. Just tell me if the baby is healthy.Dr. Evans:
As you wish.Dr. Evans places the gel on her belly and then works the ultrasound around.
Dr. Evans:
Well, it is way too soon to determine the sex and to tell if the baby is completely healthy, but so far you look like your off to a great start. I don't see any abnormalities at all, but unfortunately, most problems aren't spotted until later in the term. As long as you do as your told though, everything should be fine.Jing-Mei:
Even with Dave's condition. If something was wrong with this baby because of Dave's failing health, I would never forgive myself and Dave it would destroy him totally. He's got enough to deal with let alone be responsible because the baby is damaged.Dr. Evans:
Unfortunately, we can't do anything about any genetic condition that may affect the baby because of Dr. Dave's injuries but you can make sure you get plenty to eat, alot of rest, take your vitamins and see me routinely. You do all that and I think you won't have a problem carrying this baby full term. I don't have to tell you that you are a high risk pregnancy. Given the stress your under because of your husband's condition, raising two boys, your duties as a doctor...that's alot of pressure. Have you spoken with Dr. Weaver about cutting down your shifts?Jing-Mei:
No, not yet. I want to work as much as possible while Dave's a patient here. I feel close to him even if I'm all the way down in the ER.Dr. Evans:
That may due for now but I still want you to take an extra break here and there. No arguments, doctor's orders.Jing-Mei:
Alright, you win. Are we done here?Dr. Evans:
Just about. I want to calculate you due date.Dr. Evans looks at the ultrasound and then at her calendar.
Dr. Evans:
Alright, I anticipate the arrival date on or about July 29, 2004.Jing-Mei:
That's about what I figured, too. Can I go now? I want to stop in and visit with Dave before my shift begins.Dr. Evans:
Let me give you a couple of prescriptions for pre-natal vitamins and iron tablets. Follow the instructions completely. I'll know on your next visit if you haven't.Jing-Mei:
I will. Thank you, Dr. Evans.Dr. Evans:
Your welcome. I want to see you again in two weeks and tell Dr. Dave I said hello and congratulations and hope he's feeling better soon.Jing-Mei nods and Dr. Evans hands her the prescriptions on her way out. She stops by and puts her prescriptions in the hospital pharmacy and then heads towards Dave's room.
She enters to find him in the exact position and condition as he was the last time she saw him. She walks over to him, pulls up a seat, holds his hands and strokes his hair back off his soaked forehead.
Jing-Mei:
Hi baby. You didn't think I would start to work before I came by to say hello. Dave, can you hear me? (pause) Dave, if you can hear me, I want you to squeeze my hand. (pause) Just a small squeeze.Dave remains unresponsive. Dr Casin walks in and Jing-Mei gets up from her seat by Dave's bedside and meets him at the doorway.
Dr. Casin:
How are we doing this morning?Jing-Mei:
I'm fine but how about him?Dr. Casin walks over to the bed and lifts Dave's chart up from the end. He glances over it.
Dr. Casin:
BP is 130/94--slightly high but not bad. Still isn't breathing completely on his own. Pulse is good but he seems to have a slight fever. It's 102. 1 degrees. That may indicate a small infection. I'm going to gradually start him on some antibiotics for the fever and that should help.Jing-Mei:
And if it doesn't?Dr. Casin:
Then we'll run tests and find out what's causing the fever. In the meantime, as long as it doesn't get any higher we may not have to worry. There's a good chance that it may come down by itself. He may still be suffering from some post-operative effects. Now, how are you really? I heard about the new addition to your family.Jing-Mei:
Happy, but I would be even more happier and excited if Dave can take part in it, as well.Dr. Casin:
Give him a chance.Jing-Mei:
But you, yourself said that he probably wasn't ever going to get out of the bed again.Dr. Casin:
I gave you my professional opinion, but I have been wrong before.Jing-Mei:
Off the record, has something happened to change your mind.Dr. Casin takes a deep breath and then releases it.
Dr. Casin:
Sorry Jing-Mei. My opinion of his prognosis still stands.Dr. Casin walks to the head of Dave's bed and takes out his penlight. He shines it in Dave's eyes. Dave blinks at the light.
Dr. Casin:
He's still responding to the light. That's good.Then Dr. Casin takes a small pin and pokes Dave in various parts of his body starting with his extremities. Dave doesn't respond.
Dr. Casin:
Still isn't responding to painful stimuli.Dr. Casin takes out his stethoscope and listens to Dave's heart himself.
Dr. Casin:
Murmur is still present.During his exam, Dr. Casin feels Dave's stomach and Dave flinches.
Dr. Casin:
Tenderness to the belly. That got a reaction out of him. I'll have an ultrasound run on that.Jing-Mei:
But his head has moved a bit. I've seen it. And every once in a while, his arm will move.Dr. Casin:
That's a start. But like I said before, he has been making some purposeful movements. I think I'm going to ask Dr. Vasquez up to consult.Jing-Mei:
Do you think he's unresponsive because there's been further damage to his brain. Of course, you do. Why else would you want Dave's neurologist to examine him.Dr. Casin:
Just a precaution. I want to cover all the bases. Don't want to miss anything, right.Jing-Mei:
Definitely not. Dr. Casin, do you think it would be possible for me to bring my two boys up to see their daddy?Dr. Casin:
Give it some time. I want to make sure that Dave isn't fighting off an infection. If he is, the last thing he needs are two small children coming in contact with him. As soon as the test results that I'm ordering come back and I know what we are dealing with here, I'll let you know.Jing-Mei:
There's something else I notice.Jing-Mei points to Dave's chest around his bandage.
Jing-Mei:
His skin is red and bumpy and it looks like it's trailing down his chest and starting to go up to his neck, some sort of rash. Is that post-operative too?Dr. Casin:
Maybe or a mild allergic reaction to some of his meds.Jing-Mei:
He's been on those meds for almost two years and he's never gotten a rash before.Dr. Casin:
As I said, let me run the tests. I'll know more then. I wouldn't worry about it, though. His skin is probably just sensitive to the wound or he's developing a nasty sunburn under these lights. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to order those tests.As Dr. Casin heads out of the room, he is called back by Jing-Mei.
Jing-Mei
(panicked): Dr. Casin, come back here!Dr. Casin:
What's wrong?Jing-Mei:
Look!Jing-Mei points to her comatosed husband, and both doctors walk over near him.
Jing-Mei:
Dave's nose is bleeding.Quickly, Dr. Casin grabs some tissues to hold over Dave's nose and orders Jing-Mei to find a towel. She darts out of his room and returns in less than a minute with several towels under her arm. She replaces the tissue with one towel and pinches Dave's nose shut. The blood continues to gush out. After only a few seconds, the first towel is covered with Dave's blood and his pressure starts to drop.
Dr. Casin:
Damn it! He's lost alot of blood during surgery that his body isn't able to make up for yet. He can't afford to lose anymore. Try to elevate his head.Jing-Mei gently raises Dave's head up from the pillow, trying to keep it up and back, but in the process, she lets it fall forward which causes the nose to bleed faster. Finally, she holds him in an raised position, with his head back just barely touching the pillow. This seems to work. Although Dave's nose continues to bleed, less blood is flowing.
Dr. Casin:
We need some Autoplex T to coagulate his blood and stop the bleeding.While Jing-Mei controls the bleeding, Dr. Casin goes down to the drug lock-up and returns with the needed medication. He injects it into Dave's IV. Slowly, and four towels later his nose stops bleeding. Jing-Mei lays Dave back down in the bed and walks Dr. Casin towards the door.
Jing-Mei:
That never happen before. What caused it to happen this time? What's changed with his condition?Dr. Casin:
Not sure but I'm damn sure going to find out.Dr. Casin hurries to arrange the tests as Jing-Mei returns to Dave's side. She picks up his hand again and holds it up in the air with her fingers clasped through his.
Jing-Mei:
Dave, you are going to have to wake up soon. When Dr. Casin examined your abdomen, I saw that you are starting to get a little plump in the middle. You need to get up and exercise and build up those abs like they once were. And just look at how swollen your wrists are from lack of use. They need to be flexed. We don't want a problem with your circulation again and for you to throw another blood clot.Jing-Mei gently massages Dave's enlarged wrists.
Jing-Mei:
I'll help you move them until you're up to it. (pause) God Dave, your joints are so stiff. Loosen up a bit, fellow.By the end of her day, Jing-Mei was ready to go home, get into a hot tub and forget about all her worries. She had paged Dr. Casin an hour before she went off duty and still had not heard from him. Right before she was ready to sign out, he caught up with her at the desk.
Kerry:
Done for the day, Jing-Mei.Jing-Mei:
As soon as I speak with Dr. Casin.Dr. Casin:
Jing-Mei, I've tried to page you back---didn't you get it.Jing-Mei:
I didn't hear my pager beep.Jing-Mei looked at the screen of her pager and it was blank.
Jing-Mei:
What do you know, battery's dead. I just put a new one in last week. Have to take care of that before I go home. Well, did you get the results of Dave's tests back yet?Dr. Casin:
Yes, and I can't believe I missed it.That statement grew a small crowd around the admit desk.
Luka:
Missed what? What's wrong with Dr. Dave?Dr. Casin:
Jing-Mei, has Dave complained of a sore throat lately?Jing-Mei:
I told you before Dave never tells me when he's in pain. I have to find out on my own. Why do you think this problem with his heart got to this level? If I had known, I would have made sure he'd gotten treatment early on. No, I can't say if he's had a sore throat. I told you he has been drinking alot of water, but that's because he's dehydrated, but then again--he was having trouble swallowing. What does all that have to do with this?Dr. Casin:
Slight fever, red bumpy rash, nosebleed, rebound tenderness to the middle quadrant of the abdomen, possible sore throat---all the classic signs.The ER staff thought for a moment and then got the same look on their faces at about the same time.
ER Doctors:
Rheumatic Fever!Dr. Casin:
Right. That might explain why that valve in his heart ruptured so easily.Kerry:
It's starting to attack his heart.Carter:
But, I didn't think that rheumatic fever was a big problem in this country anymore.Dr. Casin:
It's not. We've gotten a handle on it. I guess that's why I never thought to look for it. But there it was, in his blood tests--as pure as day---streptococcius bacteria.Jing-Mei:
What course of treatment are you taking?Dr. Casin:
I think we caught it early enough, so I have him on a high dosage of penicillin and see if that works. If not, I may have to go to a corticosteroid. Jing-Mei, that question you ask me about earlier--you know, if your boys could come up to see Dave. I don't think that would be a good idea right now. His immune system is weak and if they have any kind of cold now, it would only compound the rheumatic fever and make things worse. Hopefully, in a few days that will change, but for now...Jing-Mei:
I agree, totally. (pause) Dr. Casin, wait a minute, I know a little about this condition. Those movements that Dave was making with his head and arm, they weren't purposeful, were they? Those were muscle spasms caused by the disease.Dr. Casin:
It's called Sydenham's chorea. And you're probably right.Jing-Mei:
So Dave isn't coming out of his coma, is he?Dr. Casin:
He was responding to the light which is a good indicator of alertness.Dr. Casin's beeper goes off and he excuses himself. The ER staff tries to reassure Jing-Mei that Dave will be fine but she has her doubts.
Luka:
He's come a long way to give up now.Jing-Mei:
I'm not so sure everyone. He's had so much wrong with him and now he's got this to fight off.Carter:
But you know Malucci better than anyone. There's not a challenge he's not willing to take on and win. It's part of that competitive nature of his.Mark:
Carter's right. Look at it this way, Jing-Mei. Dave wasn't expected to make it through his first night when he was brought in here after his kidnapping. That was almost two years ago and he's still here. Sure, he's not like he was and probably never will be but he's still alive and semi-functionable. His rehabilitation is slow, yes, but he is making a recovery.Kerry:
I never thought I'd say this but I really admire Malucci. For a guy whose had such a rough life from the start of it, I don't know one other person who loves life more than him. He's got alot more character than I ever gave him credit for. But, if you tell him that, I'll deny it.Carter:
Malucci wants to live---not die. Dying would be too easy and since when did Dave ever do things the easy way. He's stubborn and that's got to work for him.Jing-Mei:
I'll try to hold good thoughts for him and hope for the best. Thanks everyone, I needed a pick-me up speech, especially now that I have to go home and tell the boys the good and bad news about their parents. Goodnight everyone.ER Staff:
Goodnight.Jing-Mei arrives home and sees both boys on the floor, coloring. The boys notice her walk in and run to her.
Rusty:
Mama Jing, we were coloring.Rusty hands Jing-Mei his picture. It's a picture of him on a bike.
Jing-Mei:
Very nice. A two-wheeler yet.Rusty:
My bike or it will be after Christmas.Jing-Mei:
Well, let's just hope Santa brings it.As she is admiring Rusty's picture, her little guy waddles up to her carrying his drawing.
Antonio:
Ma...ma see me pictor!Jing-Mei smiles being sure she shows both boys the same amount of attention. She takes it from her eager baby and lets out a small laugh.
Jing-Mei:
Very pretty, sweetheart.Antonio:
Woof woofs.Jing-Mei:
That looks exactly like Rascal and Lucky.Rusty:
I gave the dogs a bone, so they didn't know 'Tonio drew them. They wouldn't let me hold them down again.Jing-Mei:
They are getting wise to you two. (pause) Come here, Rusty. Sit down next to me.Rusty does as Jing-Mei asks and she lifts Antonio on to her lap.
Jing-Mei:
I need to have a little chat with you, guys.Rusty gets nervous and starts to fidget.
Rusty:
Papa...okay?Jing-Mei:
Well, he's still sick...Rusty bursts into tears followed by Antonio, who doesn't have a clue why his big brother is crying. Mrs. Peterson runs in.
Mrs. Peterson:
What happened? What's going on? What's wrong with them?Jing-Mei:
I'm trying to tell them my news...you know, what we discussed last night.Mrs. Peterson:
Oh, I didn't think they'd take it that bad.Jing-Mei:
I haven't told them yet.Jing-Mei and Mrs. Peterson try to calm the children down by reassuring Rusty that his father is alright.
Jing-Mei:
Rusty, sweetheart, you're papa is going to be fine. That's not what...Rusty
(sniffling): Go see him...me and 'Tonio.Jing-Mei:
Soon, he's still a little too sick for you to come visit him but the moment the doctors give their okay, I'll take the both of you up there. Okay. Feel better.Rusty nods and then dries his face. Once Rusty is settled down, Antonio quiets down too.
Jing-Mei:
Actually, what I need to tell you is really good news. Rusty, you like having Antonio around, don't you?Rusty:
He's cool and I'm big brother.Jing-Mei:
Yes, you are and you're a good big brother, at that. Antonio, you like Rusty, right.Antonio:
Ru..tt..y.Antonio smiles and starts to clap his hands while bouncing up and down on Jing-Mei's knee.
Jing-Mei:
I'll take that as a yes. Well, how would you two like to have another baby around.Rusty scratches his head.
Rusty:
Rascal, gonna be daddy again?Jing-Mei:
Not Rascal, me. Well, I'm going to be a mommy again.Rusty:
I'm gonna be big brother again.Jing-Mei:
Yes, both you and Antonio will be big brothers soon.Rusty:
I'm gonna have another brother!Jing-Mei:
I won't promise you a boy but I'll see what I can do. Actually, that's your papa's department.Again, Rusty scratches his head confused.
Jing-Mei:
I'll explain that to you when you're a little older. Do you like the idea of having another baby ?Rusty thinks for a moment and then smiles.
Rusty:
Like it.Jing-Mei:
That's great. What about you, Antonio?Antonio continues to giggle as he's bounced on Jing-Mei's knee.
Rusty:
He like too. He just doesn't know it yet.Jing-Mei:
I think you're right. Come on, let's have some dinner.The four of them head into the dining room. While Jing-Mei sits Antonio in his high-chair, Rusty feeds his dogs and Mrs. Peterson brings the food to the table. During dinner, they discuss the new baby.
Rusty:
When am I gonna be big brother again?Jing-Mei:
Oh, not to next summer. Rusty, I'm going to need to move Antonio into your room soon, so we can fix up his room for when the baby gets here. Is that okay?Rusty taps Antonio on the shoulder.
Rusty:
Hear that, 'Tonio. We gonna be roommates. I help with room like before.Jing-Mei:
Sure, we can all work on it. It will be a family project.Rusty:
Papa, too?Jing-Mei and Mrs. Peterson stop eating and exchange a worried glance at each other.
Jing-Mei:
Sure, of course. Your papa can help out too, if he's feeling better.The family resumes eating while the thought that Dave may not be around to see this baby keeps creeping up in Jing-Mei's mind.
The next day, during one of her breaks, Jing-Mei gets up the courage to phone her mother.
Ms. Chen:
Chen residence.Jing-Mei:
Mummy, it's me.Ms. Chen:
Sweetie, I was just going to call you.Jing-Mei:
That would be a first. What about? Everyone's alright, aren't they?Ms. Chen:
They're fine. I've been doing alot of thinking since we talked last time and I would like to see my grandchild.A huge smile grows on her face.
Jing-Mei:
That's wonderful, mummy. When?Ms. Chen:
Maybe, sometime next week. We could spend the day together.Jing-Mei:
We will just love that. I will let them know.Ms. Chen
(puzzled): Them? Who's them?Jing-Mei:
Rusty and Antonio--your grandchildren.Ms. Chen:
I don't know who this Rusty is but he certainly is not my grandchild.Jing-Mei
(agitated): He is Dave's first born son.Ms. Chen:
Dave who? (pause) Oh, you're a...wop boyfriend.Jing-Mei's face starts to turn red.
Jing-Mei:
Don't call him that! First of all, he's not my boyfriend--he's my husband. But, you wouldn't know that since you never came to my wedding. Secondly, Rusty is a sweet little boy that I legally adopted so as far as I'm concerned he is your grandson, too. Why do you hate Dave and Rusty so much?Ms. Chen:
We've been through that already. If my parents ever found out that my little girl married an Italian and someone like that... they would banish me from the family, not to mention disinherit me.Jing-Mei:
So, this isn't even about Dave's heritage. It's about you and your money. (pause) What did you mean---someone like that?Ms. Chen:
Let's face it, he isn't now and never will be in our class and you are much too good for him.Jing-Mei:
Mummy, I did not call to have this talk with you. Now, if you don't stop putting Dave down I'm hanging up. I don't know what you have against someone you've never met before.Ms. Chen:
Nothing personal against the boy. It's just who he is and where he comes from?Jing-Mei:
And that's not personal. Admit it, mummy. You don't like Dave and Rusty because they're Italian and grew up poor...uh, monetary disadvantaged. The least you could do is pretend to care.Ms. Chen:
How would I do that?Jing-Mei:
Ask how my husband is doing. I'll save you the time. He's dying. Does that make you happy?Ms. Chen
(smiling): Not at all, dear. I never wanted you to be upset. I only want what is best for you. (pause) But, if something should happen to the wo..boy, then there are some very nice Asian men I'd like you to meet...Jing-Mei:
I'm hanging up now, mummy...Ms. Chen:
Wait, Jing-Mei. Please don't. We talk so little that I don't want to argue with you when we do speak...Jing-Mei:
So, when will you be picking up the boys.Ms. Chen:
My mind hasn't changed. I'll take the little one only.Jing-Mei
(through clenched teeth): You will take them---both.Ms. Chen:
I am willing to accept your own birth child, even though he has some of THAT blood running through his veins. He is after all my grandchild--by blood. But, you will not force me to take the other demon spawn too.Jing-Mei:
You will not come over to this house and pick my baby up to spend a day with you and not take his brother along. I won't let Rusty be left behind. It's either both of them or neither of them.Ms. Chen:
Fine, it's neither of them. But, when your birth child grows up and wants to know why their grandmummy hasn't come by to see him, you can tell him that he's not wanted by me since he's got that "garlic blood" in him.Jing-Mei:
That's a shame because it's your loss. You are the one who is losing out on getting to know your son-in-law and your grandchildren---including the one that I'm carrying now.Ms. Chen:
WHAT?! You got yourself knocked up again---by him!Jing-Mei:
That's right, mummy. Stings, doesn't it.Ms. Chen:
I never thought my daughter would lower herself and disgrace the family like this. Jing-Mei, I'm ashamed of you.Jing-Mei:
Goodbye, mummy.Jing-Mei slams the phone down and gets the attention of the others in the lounge.
Carter:
What was that all about?Jing-Mei:
My mother. Some people wait their whole lives to be grandparents---just one time. She has two beautiful, wonderful grandchildren---and one on the way---and she won't have any part of them. (pause) No, I won't let her upset me.Carter:
And you shouldn't. You have enough to worry about with Dave.Jing-Mei takes several deep breaths, heads over to the coffee machine and pours herself a cup. Everyone notices as she raises the cup to her lips, that her hands are trembling. Once Jing-Mei heads back to work, the others make a pack to look after her during her pregnancy and Dave's latest illness.
Two days go by and Jing-Mei is up visiting with Dave. His condition hasn't changed. He still has the nosebleeds which they are trying to control with the Autoplex T. He is being given only small dosages as a precaution to avoid massive blood-clotting which could lead to embolisms and wind up in his heart and lungs. Jing-Mei continues to flex his swollen and stiff joints and with the newly prescribed Vioxx, the joints are loosening up.
Jing-Mei:
Dave, you know what this Thursday is...it's Thanksgiving. I was so hoping that you would be well enough to come home and have our first holiday family dinner together. But, if not now then Christmas is around the corner.Dave's eyes lift open slightly as Dr. Vasquez walks through the door. Jing-Mei gets up from her position and approaches him.
Dr. Vasquez:
How's our patient today?Jing-Mei:
The same. Did you find anything new in his CAT Scan?Dr. Vasquez:
No, the scan came back negative. There's no further brain damage.Jing-Mei:
Oh, thank god for that. Dr. Vasquez, can I ask you a question that has been on my mind for some time?Dr. Vasquez:
Sure, anytime.Jing-Mei starts pacing back and forth across the room.
Jing-Mei:
Before Dave leaves the hospital this time, he's going to have more surgery on his legs which is going to take some time to recuperate from. Between that and his heart problems, he's going to be laid up for sometime, so he's not going to be able to do his physical therapy for awhile. I was thinking about concentrating on his language skills. He still has a very difficult time speaking. He stutters on every word and the aphasia is still present. Now, I've been looking into getting him a tutor to help in that area but what I need to know from you is he capable of learning these skills.Dr. Vasquez:
I don't have to tell you the enormous damage that was done to his brain his entire life, most of it permanent. You know that he's never going to be like he once was and his language skills---there will always be a problem there. I could look into finding you a high class speech therapist that works with people that stutter.Jing-Mei:
That's good but I also need to find someone to teach Dave to read again. If only to be able to read the labels on his medication bottles. Right now, we use colors. Dave likes colors and he associates well with them. I color the labels on his prescription vials and he knows what drugs they are. But what if I forget to do that or mix up the colors...it could have serious effects for him.Dr. Vasquez:
You know whoever you get to tutor Dave will have to have experience not only working with a neurological impaired patient but with dyslexics, too.Jing-Mei:
I know. Bad combination and it won't be easy to find someone like that.Dr. Vasquez:
Let me see what I can do for you... I...have...a..few...connect..Dr. Vasquez stares at Dave.
Jing-Mei:
What's wrong Dr. Vasquez?Dr. Vasquez:
I'm not sure. (pause) Jing-Mei, walk back and forth---just like you were doing there before.Jing-Mei does as Dr. Vasquez asks. As she does, a grin covers the neurologist's face.
Dr. Vasquez:
I thought so.Jing-Mei:
Thought what? What are you smiling about?Dr. Vasquez:
Come here and look for yourself.The two doctors walk over to Dave.
Dr. Vasquez:
Watch your husband, now.This time Dr. Vasquez paces in front of Dave.
Dr. Vasquez:
Do you see that? Dave is following us with his eyes.Jing-Mei
(excited): He can see us!Dr. Vasquez:
Let me take a look.Dr. Vasquez pulls out his penlight and shines it in Dave's eyes. He blinks as usual.
Dr. Vasquez:
Dave, I need you to follow this light with just your eyes.Dr. Vasquez starts to slowly move the light around in front of Dave's face. Although his response is still slow, he is indeed following the light.
Dr. Vasquez:
Yes, I do believe that he can see us.Jing-Mei:
He's out of the coma, then?Dr. Vasquez:
Not completely but he's definitely on his way.Jing-Mei cups Dave's face in her hands and plants a big kiss on him.
Over the next day or so, Dave's condition continues to improve. His fever has broken, the stiffness in his joints is gone, the rash is disappearing and the nosebleeds and jerky movements with his arms and head are coming less and less. Dr. Casin informed Jing-Mei that Dave seems to beating the rheumatic fever and it's almost totally out of his system and it's safe for him to have visitors again. He gives her permission to bring the boys up for Thanksgiving.
Jing-Mei and Mrs. Peterson bring the boys to the CICU. Rusty runs on ahead of them and when they arrive, he's sitting on Dave's bed watching the parade on the tv. Dave is so fascinated by the colors of all the costumes and floats, that he hardly notices that his family has arrived. Both ladies kiss Dave on the head and Jing-Mei lifts Antonio up to kiss his daddy. Dave doesn't take his eyes off the tv.
Jing-Mei:
Dave, I have something for you.Jing-Mei opens up her purse and pulls out some photos. She places them directly in Dave's line of vision.
Jing-Mei:
Look who we have here.Dave smiles at the photos and attempts to take them from her, but he's still weak and can't lift his arm up high enough to get them.
Jing-Mei:
Yeah, you remember them, don't you.Antonio:
Woof woofs.Jing-Mei:
I wish I was allowed to bring them here to see you, but hospital policy. You'll see them soon enough when you're better. In fact once your home, you'll be able to spend the whole day with the dogs....and your sons.Dave continues to look at the pictures while the others watch the parade when something catches all of their eyes, except Dave's, at his door. The room is stormed by most of the ER staff. Mark is pushing in a cart and others are carrying chairs and a small table and several bowls.
Mrs. Peterson:
What in the world?Jing-Mei:
What's going on here?Kerry:
Well, we knew how excited Dave was about Thanksgiving and since he couldn't get home for the day, we brought Thanksgiving to you guys.Malik set up the small table while several of the nurses set the places for each of them. Then one by one, the food was revealed and dished out.
Jing-Mei:
Thank you guys, this is about the nicest thing anyone has ever done for us.Luka:
Your welcome but hey, Dave certainly deserves this, given how hard he's fought to make it to this day. It was our pleasure.The staff stood back and watched as the Maluccis took each others hands and started to say grace. Dave remained in his bed looking at his pictures, taking occasionally glances at what was going on in his room.
Jing-Mei:
Well, I guess we really have something to be thankful for this day. Dave is still with us and is getting better and this time next year we will have one more joining our family and we already have two wonderful, healthy children and dogs and a fantastic nanny for them. Who could ask for more?Mrs. Peterson:
Amen, to that.Rusty:
Now, let's eat!As the family started to dig in, they heard a strange but familiar sound.
Dave:
Wwwwant ttturkey!!!To be continued. Please read and review.
