Showdown
Part 38
That Monday morning, the Maluccis were all running around trying to get ready for Florida. They had just under two hours to get to the airport to catch their flight. Jing-Mei tried to get the boys to settle down to eat breakfast, but all three (including Dave) were too far gone to think about eating. While Mrs. Peterson did a final check on the suitcases, Jing-Mei gathered up Dave's medications and placed them in a carry-on bag.
Rusty and Dave were looking at the Disney World brochure when there was a knock on the door. Rusty opened the door and in walked Larry.
Larry: Good morning guys, are my houseguests ready to go?
Antonio waddled over towards his father and Dave placed the smiling boy on his knee. Rusty ran to get the dogs. After a few minutes, he came out with them on their leashes.
Rusty: Here you go, Larry. Take good care of them. They very special.
Larry: I will. We will have a great time together. Don't worry about them.
Rusty handed Larry the leashes and then ran back into the kitchen. Larry, scratched the dogs' heads and then bent down and looked at who Dave had in his hands.
Larry: Hey sport, you excited about the trip?
Dave: Ccan't wwait. Gonna have ffun.
Larry: I bet but I was talking to Antonio.
Antonio: Mi..mik..ey mmouse.
The three continued to look at the guide when Rusty came back dragging behind him a bag.
Dave: Ruzzy, wwhat got you?
Rusty: Larry, these their favorite toys and some food.
Larry: Thanks Rusty, looks like a little more than some food.
Dave: They have ffriends tto eentertain.
Larry: I see. Rusty, here's the keys to my car. Can you put that bag in the trunk?
Rusty took the keys from Larry and headed out to the car, dragging the bag behind him.
Jing-Mei and Mrs. Peterson came out from the back.
Jing-Mei: Hello Larry, I really appreciate this.
Larry: Hey, you're doing me a favor too. I could use the companionship. Any special instructions?
Dave: Yeah, tthey llike sscratches bbehind their ears and on bellies.
Larry: I think we can manage that. Anything else?
Jing-Mei: I don't think so. Just enjoy them and keep them out of trouble. Oh, and don't be surprise if you wind up with more than two dogs by the time we get back. They like to accumulate.
Larry: I've been warned. Well, I had better get these guys out of here now, or they'll never come.
Antonio starts to cry. Dave pats the little boy's tummy and bounces him on his knee.
Mrs. Peterson: What's the matter, little guy?
Antonio: Woofies...go..bye..bye.
Antonio stretches out his arms, trying to reach his feisty dogs.
Mrs. Peterson: Oh, they'll be back. When we come home, so will they.
Jing-Mei instructed Larry to take the dogs out, while they tried to calm Antonio.
Rusty: Bag in truck, Larry.
Rusty tosses Larry back the keys and they say goodbye to the dogs as Larry directs them out the door. Rusty heads over to the baby.
Rusty: What wrong with him?
Dave: Mmmisses ddoggies.
Rusty bends down and comforts the 18 month old.
Rusty: 'Tonio they going on vacation, like us. They not going for good. Do you think your big brother, Rusty, would let Larry take our best friends way forever. I love those doggies too and so does papa. He wouldn't let anyone hurt them.
Antonio manages to calm down. Mrs. Peterson takes him from Dave's arm.
Mrs. Peterson: I think we had better do one final diaper check before we leave.
Mrs. Peterson takes Antonio into the bathroom.
Jing-Mei: Okay Rusty, since you like playing moving man today, how about helping me load up the car.
Rusty starts to take the suitcases out to the car, while Jing-Mei gets Dave ready to go.
Jing-Mei: How do you feel, sweetheart?
Dave: Fine, sstop ffussin over mme. Llet's go.
Jing-Mei: Alright, this is going to be a great trip. Did I forget anything? Let me check one more time.
Jing-Mei goes from room to room and makes sure all the lights are off and the gas is shut down. No fire hazards left. She heads back for the living room when she stops on a dime. Mrs. Peterson, who's finishing up with Antonio, sees her through the opened bathroom door.
Mrs. Peterson: Ready to have a good time with your family, Jing-Mei.
Jing-Mei is pre-occupied staring at Dave, who's trying to push himself up on his feet by grasping his walker. He's taking exceptionally deep breaths and struggles to stand. Jing-Mei, starts to shake and puts her trembling hand to her mouth and backs up into the bathroom before Dave can see her.
Mrs. Peterson: What's wrong, dear?
Jing-Mei: He's in bad pain.
Mrs. Peterson: I know. I noticed it this morning. I was going to mention it but I didn't want to spoil the trip.
Jing-Mei: I want to have fun this vacation but it's so hard to enjoy myself when I see him like that.
Mrs. Peterson puts Antonio on the floor and sends him into the other room then pulls Jing-Mei into a hug.
Mrs. Peterson: Now, you've got to pull yourself together. You can't let them see you like this or you'll just worry them. We are going to Florida and Dave is going to be fine. We are going to have a good time and we will worry about Dave's health when we get back. As long as he doesn't make an issue of it, neither should we. Just try and keep your mind off it. I'm sure Dave doesn't want us constantly looking over his shoulder, telling him what he can and can't do. You have his medicine, right.
Jing-Mei nods.
Mrs. Peterson: That should be good enough. Now, come on let's go have some fun with the boys and just be a family.
Jing-Mei: You're right, of course, but I just can't ignore Dave's condition.
Mrs. Peterson: And I don't expect you to, but just don't make it a priority. We are going away to relax and forget about our everyday problems. I'm just saying that we've done all that we can for Dave. You, me, the doctors, even Dave himself and what happens is beyond our control. All we can do now is take it day to day and see what happens and not consider what might happen, we'll wind up making this a lousy vacation and that just won't do for his birthday.
From out in the other room:
Rusty: Let go Mama Jing and Grandma Peterson. We aren't getting any younger here.
Jing-Mei wipes her tears and the ladies join the boys in the living room.
Rusty: We going now or what?
Jing-Mei: Calm down Rusty, we'll get there. Why don't you help Mrs. Peterson get Antonio into his car seat and we will be along in just a minute.
Rusty, Antonio and Mrs. Peterson head outside while Jing-Mei and Dave hang back inside.
Jing-Mei: Dave, are you sure you're up to this trip?
Dave: Yyou ttrying to bback out?
Jing-Mei: No, it's just I want to make sure you're okay. It's a long flight to Florida.
Dave: I told you Iii fine. So, let ggo.
Jing-Mei helps Dave stand up. He's leaning on his walker when she leaves him and then returns with his wheelchair, to Dave's horror.
Dave: Wwhat that for?
Jing-Mei: It's for you, Dave.
Dave: Oh no, Iii ccan wwalk, see.
Dave takes a step or two and then stops, looking back at his wife.
Jing-Mei: I know and I have no problem with you walking but Disney World is a big place. I'm just bringing it along as a precaution...if you get tired.
Dave: Hhow mmany ttimes Ddavey say, Ii fine.
Jing-Mei: Let's just say, I'll feel better if we take it. Besides, it's one of the conditions Dr. Casin made when he gave his permission for you to take this trip.
Dave: Alright, bbut iit's wwaste ttime. Iii wwalk Disney World aaround. Ddon't nneed tthat ddumb tthing.
Jing-Mei: Maybe not, but I might. I'm not a young woman anymore and chasing around two energetic boys and carrying a third in my stomach, I'll probably use this chair more than you will.
Dave smiles at her and they head out the door. Jing-Mei sets the security alarm and locks the door. They get into the car and head for the airport.
Once at the airport, Jing-Mei checks in the baggage. All except, the small carry-on containing Dave and Antonio's medications. They go to the lounge and wait to board. The boys enjoy walking through the metal detectors so much that they keep running around and going through them again and again, until Mrs. Peterson gets hold of them. Jing-Mei goes through next but she explains to the officer about Dave's pacemaker and they use a hand-held wand over him. When the Maluccis are cleared to pass, they sit in the lounge and wait. Jing-Mei picks up a magazine and helps Dave with his reading while Mrs. Peterson keeps the boys busy at the video games.
Intercom: May I have your attention: Flight 510 to Orlando will be boarding shortly. Those passengers traveling with small children and those needing special assistance may board now.
Mrs. Peterson tears the boys away from games and brings them over to their parents.
Mrs. Peterson: Well, I guess we qualify in both cases.
Jing-Mei: Guess so,let's go you guys.
As they board, the boys start to sing the Mickey Mouse theme.
Dave, Rusty and Antonio: M-I-C...
Mrs. Peterson: See you real soon.
Dave, Rusty and Antonio: K-E-Y...
Jing-Mei: Why, because we love you.
All: M-O-U-S-E.
Two hours later and the Maluccis are at the Orlando airport. They gather their bags, grab a taxi and take it to their hotel. They are staying at theone of the largest hotels in Disney World.Both boys and Dave are speechless at the sight and can't wait to get started on their vacation. Jing-Mei and Mrs. Peterson are both given a key to their suite in the hotel--Room 801.
Rusty: When we go DisneyWorld?
Jing-Mei: Can we at least check out our hotel room? Calm down you'll get there.
They enter the suite and the boys are set free inside to explore. While Jing-Mei and Mrs. Peterson start to unpack the bags, the boys and Dave check out their digs.
Rusty: Wow! This is bigger than hotel we stay at after wedding.
Dave: What was that like?
Rusty: Nice, but it was only one room. It had a small tv and a tiny bathroom. And it sure didn't have these kind of decrations. Look, papa and 'Tonio, Mickey Mouse lights and candy dish and cool, a Donald Duck phone.
Dave and Rusty were playing with the phone when Rusty spotted the refrigerator.
Rusty: That frigrator bigger than other one too.
Rusty walks over to it and opens it, then smiles.
Rusty: And it comes with food in it...lots of food.
By the time, the women are done unpacking Jing-Mei and Dave's bags, they decide to check on the guys. They find them in the boys' suite jumping up and down on one of the beds. Dave is sitting nearby cheering them on.
Rusty: Grandma Peterson, look at us...we have our own trampline. Watch this.
Rusty launches himself off the bed and into Dave's waiting arms. Antonio follows after him.
Mrs. Peterson: That's very nice but enough of that. We are only guests here and not permanent residents. You know you have to respect other people's property.
Dave: Bbored we.
Mrs. Peterson: Then come here and let me show you something.
She takes Rusty's hand and Antonio in her arms and Dave limps behind. She opens the curtain to their room and they stare at the view of the Disney Castle at the Magic Kingdom. Their eyes lit up.
Rusty: We going there.
Mrs. Peterson: Soon, let's just get settled first and then we'll go.
Mrs. Peterson shows them the big picture book of Disney World that she picked up at the airport to distract them while she goes over to where Jing-Mei has started to unpack the boys suitcases.
Jing-Mei: That seemed to do the job, for now.
Mrs. Peterson: Yeah, but as soon as they get tired of the book, they'll be bouncing off the walls again---or at least the bed. Why don't we finish the unpacking later and take them over there now?
Jing-Mei: Alright, I hate to admit it but I can hardly wait myself.
Jing-Mei and Mrs. Peterson walk over to the guys who are still, amazingly, involved in the book to notice their appearance.
Jing-Mei: Alright, who wants to go to DISNEYWORLD!
The boys cheer and run to the door. The adults follow them.
Jing-Mei: Dave, are you sure you don't want your chair?
Dave: I ccan wwalk. Nno cchair.
They leave and head for the park, checking out all the Disney decorations on the way down. They stop by the swimming pools.
Rusty: We can swim in them.
Jing-Mei: Later.
Mrs. Peterson: Which one do you want to swim in?
Rusty(scratching his head) What you mean, which one?
Mrs. Peterson: See, they have an inside pool and an outside pool.
Rusty: Cool.
They go closer to the pools for a better look and to observe the opening times and rules when Antonio starts to point at one of the pools.
Antonio: M..ikey M..ose.
Jing-Mei: That's right Antonio. It is shaped like Mickey Mouse. Come on, we're going to visit Mickey's home now.
The Maluccis head off to Disney World. Once inside they are greeted by Goofy and Cinderella. Mrs. Peterson and Jing-Mei are sure to have plenty of film to take lots of pictures of their trip.
Jing-Mei: So, what do you want to do first?
Rusty: SPACE MOUNTAIN!
They head over to the ride and start reading the signs outside. Dave makes his way to the line and Jing-Mei follows him.
Jing-Mei: I don't think this one is such a good idea for you, Dave.
Dave: Yyou say I ccan go on rrides. Dr. Ccasin too.
Jing-Mei: I know, it's just this is such a big ride, I think maybe we should start out smaller and work up to this one. Let's just see how you do on some of the smaller and calmer rides first and then we'll tackle this one.
Rusty: This one not too tough for me.
Mrs. Peterson: Your mama's right, Rusty. Why don't we try some more gentler rides that the whole family can go on?
Both Rusty and Dave give in, more anxious about getting on something than just standing there watching other people have fun.
The family goes on the Dumbo ride, the "It's a Small World " ride and down Splash Mountain. Then they explore Epcot and then take in lunch. They do a few more rides and then head back to the hotel for some swimming.
Rusty: We go back.
Jing-Mei: Later, when it's not so hot out there. For it being late April it feels more like August.
Mrs. Peterson: It might be that extra weight that you are carrying around with you.
They go up into their suite and change into their bathing suits and head down to the inside pool. Rusty jumps into four foot as the others make their way down to the shallow end. Antonio has his wings on and Mrs. Peterson places him down gently in the water, with him splashing and laughing the whole time.
Dave: Ii gget iin tthat eend.
Jing-Mei: Sorry Dave, but it's the shallow end for you, too.
Dave: I bbig bboy, nnot llittle bbaby Ttony like.
Jing-Mei: I know Dave, but your left side is still weak and I'm afraid you won't be able to keep yourself afloat.
Dave: So wwhat, nnot ssuppose to sstay on water, go under it.
Jing-Mei: Normally yes, but you can't go under the water with your trache. If water gets in that, your lungs will start filling up and you'll drown. Come on, you can have just as much fun in this end. Besides, it'll be a good idea if you just sit on bottom of the pool and relax. You can watch the others swim and play with Antonio.
Dave: Bboring.
Jing-Mei: I know baby, but it's the best we can do.
Jing-Mei and Mrs. Peterson help settle Dave down at the shallow end of the pool which comes up to just the middle of his chest with him sitting on the pool floor. Antonio splashes by him, and Dave lightly splashes his son back. Rusty heads over to them.
Jing-Mei: Where have you been, young man?
Rusty: Playing in four foot. Now, I'm gonna go off diving board.
Jing-Mei: Oh, no you're not. That is fifteen foot. There is no way you can swim in that.
Rusty: I good swimmer.
Jing-Mei: Yes, but not that good besides we can't watch you from here. Anyway, there are bigger kids over there and you could get hurt. You stay at this end of the pool.
Rusty agrees and decides to show off with his cannonballs. His family cheers him on, although Dave feels a little jealous that he can't do that. Dave watches Antonio swim and starts to give him a few pointers about what he remembers when a beach ball hits his head.
Rusty: Play ball, papa.
Dave picks up the ball and tosses it to Antonio. Antonio, tries to throw it back but it doesn't get very far. Rusty gets into the shallow end and the three toss the ball back and forth between them.
Later that night, the family returns to Disney World after dinner for more rides. They take in the last parade down Main Street and then sit back and watch the fireworks.
Mrs. Peterson: They are so beautiful.
Jing-Mei: The best ones in the world.
Dave(holding his ears)Loud, hhurt ears.
Jing-Mei: I forgot about that baby, just hold your ears real tight and watch them. They'll be over soon and then we can go play a game or get some snacks, okay.
Although the fireworks were loud, Dave thought they were extraordinary. His big, brown, gentle eyes stared at the them and the traces of smoke they left behind.
The next morning, the Maluccis had breakfast with the Disney characters, then it was off to Sea World. They saw all different kinds of fish and sea life. Rusty kept asking Dave what kind of fish they would catch when they go camping and Antonio liked the sharks. They all loved the show with the seals, dolphins and killer whale.
After leaving Sea World, Jing-Mei and Dave took Antonio, who was fast asleep in Jing-Mei's arms back to the hotel while Rusty and Mrs. Peterson went back to the park and they got on some big kid rides.
Jing-Mei: Thank you so much for taking him.
Mrs. Peterson: I did promise him. He's been so good about getting on the kiddie rides with Antonio so I said that if we could get to the park ourselves I would go on the rides that Antonio was too small for and that Rusty still needed an adult for.
Dave: Ii come ttoo.
Jing-Mei: Now, now Dave. This is also suppose to be our honeymoon and we really haven't spent anytime together, alone--just the two of us. So, let's put Antonio up in bed to rest and you and I can have some quality time alright. Then later tonight, we can come back to the park.
Dave: Okay.
Dave and Jing-Mei hugged Rusty and Mrs. Peterson goodbye and they headed off back to Disney World.
Rusty: Alright Grandma Peterson, it's SPACE MOUNTAIN TIME!
Mrs. Peterson: What did I get myself into here?
As planned Jing-Mei and Dave took Antonio upstairs to their suite, placed him on the huge bed he and Rusty were sharing and then went into their own room. Jing-Mei ordered up room service and they sat out on the balcony and had dinner, keeping one eye on the bedroom and watching Antonio.
About two hours later, Rusty came running into the room, waking up Antonio and Mrs. Peterson was loaded down with things Rusty wanted to buy. He jumped into bed with his parents, who thankfully were just relaxing at the time and showed them what they bought.
Rusty: Papa, Mama Jing---you've got to go on Space Mountain. It is awsome, ain't it Grandma?
Mrs. Peterson (still shaky from the ride)To say the least. We weren't intruding, were we?
Jing-Mei: No, Dave and I were just enjoying each others company in a quiet surrounding. My, you've got a lot of things here.
Mrs. Peterson: Dave said I could buy the boys anything they wanted.
Jing-Mei: He did, huh. Spoiling them, that is not our way, Dave.
Dave ignored her and continued to search through the packages.
Dave: Wwhat you bbring mme?
Rusty: Llook papa, Mickey Mouse watch for you.
Dave: I llike it.
Rusty: And for Mama Jing, we got her a tee shirt and there's one for you too, papa and Antonio and I got Mickey Mouse dolls, uh action figures and this package is for Rascal and Lucky.
Mrs. Peterson: But we aren't allowed to look in that one. He wants us to be just as surprised as the dogs when they see it.
Jing-Mei: Looks like you had a full afternoon in the park and now you're ready for bed.
Rusty: No way. Time go outside. Fireworks.
Jing-Mei: Huh, don't you ever run down, Rusty.
Mrs. Peterson: Remember, we were young and active at one time too.
Antonio: Mikey Mose.
Rusty: I told you 'Tonio, it's Mickey Mouse.
Jing-Mei: Let him say it the way he wants too. Have you had dinner yet?
Rusty: Yeah, we ate.
Mrs. Peterson: If you call hot dogs, popcorn, soda pop and cotton candy eating, we certainly did.
Jing-Mei: Rusty, what did I tell you about eating all those sweets, especially with your new braces on? Mrs. Peterson, why don't you take the boys down for a real meal in the hotel restaurant and we'll join you outside later.
Rusty: You miss fireworks.
Jing-Mei: No, we won't. We can see them just fine from here. Besides, it's a little further away so the noise won't bother you're father's ears as much.
Mrs. Peterson: Sounds like a plan. This will really give you two some time to yourselves. (winking at them)
Sounds like a plan. This will really give you two some time to yourselves.Jing-Mei: Call me on my cell phone when you finish dinner and we'll decide where to meet.
Mrs. Peterson took the boys back downstairs and Jing-Mei and Dave finally had the suite to themselves and began their honeymoon.
After an hour in bed together, the two relaxed again when they heard a popping sound. Jing-Mei got up and drew the curtains open to reveal the sky lit up with fireworks. She got back in bed and snuggled up to Dave.
Jing-Mei: How's that? The fireworks don't hurt your ears now, do they?
Dave(stroking her long black hair) Little bbit, bbut Ii don't mind much so now.
Jing-Mei left out a small giggle and then climbed back onto her waiting husband and continued with their honeymoon with the fireworks as their personal scenery.
When Jing-Mei got Mrs. Peterson's call, she and Dave had just come out from taking a shower together and were getting dressed. While Jing-Mei was finishing fixing her hair for a night out with her family, she tried to ignore the fact that Dave was bent over his walker, struggling for breath. She could see glistening tears running down the sides of his face. Unable to bear the sight any longer, she approached him.
Jing-Mei: I wore you out, I guess.
Dave: Yeah, you ddid.
Jing-Mei: If you rather not go out again tonight...
Dave: No, go oout. Hhave fun with kkiddies. I'm ffine. Jjust nneed oone of my nnitro pills.
Dave took the pill and placed it under his tongue and within minutes it took effect.
Dave: Ssee, Ii ffine. Llet's go. Tthey wwaiting on us.
Jing-Mei: Alright, but no rough rides tonight. Let's just explore the place and maybe do some shopping ourselves.
Dave: Ookay. Let go.
Jing-Mei: Just as soon as I get my purse. I left it in the bathroom when I put my makeup on.
Jing-Mei entered the bathroom and closed the door behind her. She sat on the edge of the tub and cried.
Dave: Hhow long it ttake find you purse?
Jing-Mei quickly wiped her tears and walked out of the bathroom.
Jing-Mei: I was just touching up my makeup. Shall we go, sir?
Jing-Mei helped Dave out of the room and downstairs where they met the rest of their party.
Jing-Mei: You guys have a good dinner?
Mrs. Peterson: It was a buffet. They had fried chicken and I made sure they got plenty of vegetables before they got dessert.
Dave: Wwhere we going nnow?
Jing-Mei: I don't know. Any ideas?
Rusty: Space Mountain.
Dave: Yeah!
Jing-Mei: Dave, I said no rough rides tonight and you have had enough Space Mountain for today, Rusty.
Dave: Yyou ppromise Davey could go on.
Jing-Mei: And I meant it, just not tonight. I was thinking maybe a little sightseeing and play some more games and shopping and you boys can have some time in the video arcade and we'll go on more rides tomorrow.
Rusty shrugs.
Rusty: Okay, right 'Tonio.
Antonio nods at his big brother and then points at a figure walking by them.
Antonio: Winnie poo.
The kids runs over to the bear and hug him while Jing-Mei takes the picture.
Jing-Mei: Alright, let's move out.
Mrs. Peterson: If you don't mind, I think I'll call it a night. I'm exhausted. I'll just go back to the room and go to sleep, if that's okay.
Jing-Mei: Of course it is. It's about time Rusty and Antonio's parents' look after them awhile.
Mrs. Peterson: Good. I still have a headache from all the rides we went on today, in particular Space Mountain. Goodnight all and have a good time.
They wave bye to Mrs. Peterson and head off to the video arcade.
Day Three, and the kids are up and ready to go again. Jing-Mei ordered room service for breakfast and after some quick showers and baths, the Maluccis are ready to travel through Disney World again.
Mrs. Peterson: So, what have you got planned for today?
Jing-Mei: We got tickets for Nickelodeon and Universal Studios and then I thought we would go on the Back to the Future Ride and Earthquake and see some shows, then tour the Animal Kingdom.
We got tickets for Nickelodeon and Universal Studios and then I thought we would go on the Ride and and see some shows, then tour the Animal Kingdom.With the children dressed and ready to go, Jing-Mei pushes Dave's chair over to him.
Dave: Yyou rriding iin tthat ttoday?
Jing-Mei: No, you are.
Dave: Aam not.
Jing-Mei sits down on the edge of the bed and runs her hand down Dave's face.
Jing-Mei: Dave, we are going to be going on a tour that could take hours. You can't possibly walk for that long without running out of breath. Please, use your chair just for a little while. Just while we are touring and then if you feel like walking again, you can do that.
Dave: They see me iin tthat, tthey nnot llet me on Space Mountain.
Jing-Mei: I'll talk to them and tell them that's it's alright. You have your doctor's permission. Okay?
Reluctantly, Dave climbs into the chair and off they go. The first thing they do is the Back to the Future Ride and then fly with E.T. After touring Nickelodeon and getting slimed and pied, they head over to a candy making factory and see how all the candy at Disney is made. The boys grab more then their fair share of free samples and then go on the tour of the Animal Kingdom. They get the sense of feeling what it's like on a real African safari and during one of the shows, the trainers let the boys hold some snakes.
Rusty: Wow, I bet we catch real big fish with these.
Jing-Mei: Just don't get any ideas about bring those into my house.
As the family is headed back to Disney World, there's a crack of thunder causing Dave to grab his ears and Antonio to burst into tears. Before they can calm the two down, the are drenched with the beginning of a typical Florida downpour and head back to the hotel.
Mrs. Peterson and Jing-Mei dry the boys off and as they watch the rain fall from their window, Jing-Mei attempts to towel off Dave's soaked head. Dave shrugs her off.
Jing-Mei: Dave, you're soaking wet. I have to dry you off or you'll catch pneumonia.
Dave: Don't care.
Jing-Mei: We do, now if you won't let me dry you, then do it yourself and get changed out of those wet clothes.
Dave: Leave alone mme.
Jing-Mei: What is your problem?
Dave: Yyou say Ii ccan go Space Mmountain ttoday. Nnow, yyou bbacked down.
Jing-Mei: I didn't back down. They closed the ride down. I didn't make it rain.
Rusty: Rain sucks.
Jing-Mei: Rusty, I won't have that talk out of you.
Jing-Mei and Mrs. Peterson look at the three disappointed faces in front of them and try to decide on how to keep this vacation from becoming a complete washout.
Mrs. Peterson: There must be something fun to do right here in the hotel.
Dave: Wwhat like?
Mrs. Peterson grabs the hotel brochure.
Jing-Mei: There's the arcade downstairs and the playroom with the balls to jump in. You guys said you liked doing that back at the other hotel in Chicago. And then there's the inside swimming pool.
Mrs. Peterson: Look, they have some Disney shows and plays down in the auditorium we can see. How's that sound?
Rusty: Alright, we'll go.
Jing-Mei (sarcastically)Try to be just a little less enthused, Rusty. Okay, let's get down there then. Dave, you coming?
Dave (angry)Ii sstay hhere.
Jing-Mei: Dave, I am trying to do what I can to make this vacation enjoyable for all of us, I need your help here. Now, I am sorry you were disappointed about Space Mountain and if you want to sulk, then do it somewhere else but I will not have you ruin this trip for these kids. Now, get ready to go down to the lobby with us.
Dave: Ii ssay I not going!
Jing-Mei: Yes, you are. You are not staying in this room by yourself. I want to keep an eye on you.
Mrs. Peterson: Why don't you go with the boys and I'll stay here with him. I don't mind.
Jing-Mei: Fine.
As Jing-Mei heads out with the boys, they run back to Dave.
Antonio: Da...da.. come.
Rusty: Please papa, come down with us. PLEASE!
Dave turns around and looks into his sons' eyes. Unable to resist them, Dave agrees to go.
Jing-Mei: That's the man I fell in love with now. And I promise you, if the rain let's up tomorrow and we don't do one other thing, we are definitely getting you on Space Mountain.
The group heads downstairs. While the children and Dave are playing, Jing-Mei calls Larry. She signals them to come over and hands each one of them the phone. Larry puts his end down by the dogs and they each give the dogs a message. Then they head back to the playroom. They sat in on productions of " The Jungle Book" and "Peter Pan". Then they went to another part of the hotel that they hadn't seen yet and saw a race car track. Antonio and Rusty got in one car and Dave in another one and they raced each other. They all liked that ride and got on it several times until Rusty decided he wanted to go swimming again. They went upstairs and changed into their bathing suits and back down to the pools where they stayed until it was time for dinner. They ate at the dinner buffet in the hotel and then as night fell on them and the rain slowed down, they headed towards Epcot and saw some shows about intergalactic travel. It was after midnight when they finally got back to the hotel. All were tired, from their day out but grateful that the rain was stopping and they could do Disney World again tomorrow and Dave would finally get on Space Mountain. Mrs. Peterson and Jing-Mei got the boys into their pajamas and then sat back in some chairs on the balcony and watched the droplets of rain hit against their railing.
Jing-Mei: All in all, despite the rain, it wasn't a bad day after all.
The ladies glance back at a sleeping Dave on the bed.
Mrs. Peterson: I'm glad that Dave decided to join us. But if we soon don't get him to Space Mountain, he'll die.
Both Jing-Mei and Mrs. Peterson gasped at what she said and remained silent for the rest of the night on the balcony until they themselves headed into bed.
The next morning, bright and early, Rusty was up ready to go out again.
Rusty: Are we gonna eat in or out for breakfast today?
Mrs. Peterson: I'm not sure. We'll have to ask your parents.
Rusty: I'll ask them.
Mrs. Peterson: Hold it. Remember to knock before you enter your parents' room. They may be busy working or something.
Hold it. Remember to knock before you enter your parents' room. They may be busy orRusty knocks and when Jing-Mei gives him the okay, he opens the door.
Rusty: How come you two still in bed? We ready for breakfast, let's go.
Jing-Mei: Rusty, check in the refrigerator, there must be a piece of fruit you can eat now and then go back to bed for awhile.
Rusty: How come it so hot in here? Aren't we going out today?
Jing-Mei: Later, now just go find something to nibble on for now.
Rusty shrugs and does as he's told.
Rusty: Okay. Whatever you say, Mama Jing.
Rusty exits their room, shutting the door behind him and goes to look for a piece of fruit to eat until breakfast time.
Mrs. Peterson: Well, are we staying or going out?
Rusty: Not sure.
Mrs. Peterson: Were your parents' up yet?
Rusty: Kinda. Mama Jing was awake but still in bed...
Mrs. Peterson (embarrassed) What was she doing in bed?
Rusty: Just laying there, what did you think?
Mrs. Peterson: Never mind, what did she say?
Rusty: She told me to eat some fruit for now and then go back to sleep for while. We've been getting up early every day we were here, how come not today?
Mrs. Peterson: Maybe your parents are just very tired. They aren't young anymore and with your mama pregnant, it's not easy.
Rusty: I don't know how they sleep in there anyway, it's so hot.
Mrs. Peterson: Rusty, go get your fruit and stay in here with your brother. I'll be right back.
Mrs. Peterson taps on their bedroom door and then enters.
Mrs. Peterson: Rusty's right. It is stuffy in here.
Jing-Mei: I know. It couldn't be helped.
Mrs. Peterson: What's happening?
Jing-Mei: Dave's been shaking all night long. I asked him if he was chilly and he said yes, so I turned off the air conditioner, but he was still shaking so I covered him with another blanket and that seemed to help until...(pause) when I got back into bed with him, I felt his skin. He's burning up, so I went and got a thermometer from the all-night pharmacy downstairs. His temperature is 103.
Dave's been shaking all night long. I asked him if he was chilly and he said yes, so I turned off the air conditioner, but he was still shaking so I covered him with another blanket and that seemed to help until...when I got back into bed with him, I felt his skin. He's burning up, so I went and got a thermometer from the all-night pharmacy downstairs. His temperature is 103.Mrs. Peterson: He's had 103 lots of times.
Jing-Mei: I know but every time I think this may be the last...
Mrs. Peterson: What do think is wrong with him?
Jing-Mei: I don't know exactly. Hot and cold sweats and elevated temperature are side effects from his medications, but I've never seen them so acute.
Mrs. Peterson: It might be something as simple as a change in temperature between Chicago and Florida that he's not use to or just a cold. He was out in the rain the other night and stayed in his wet clothes for awhile.
Jing-Mei: I hope that's all it is.
Mrs. Peterson: Do you want to cancel the rest of the trip and take him home, if he's able to travel?
Jing-Mei: I hate to do it, but we may not have a choice.
Jing-Mei leans over Dave and strokes his sweat-soaked hair.
Jing-Mei: Dave, baby, we're going to leave today and take you home. Do you feel up to getting dressed? I'll call the airport and make the reservations.
Dave: Nno sstay. Ppromise Ii bboys vacation. Nno lleave. Pplease nno.
Jing-Mei: The boys will understand.
Dave: Wwe sstay. Ii ppromise tthem.
Jing-Mei looks at Mrs. Peterson, who's shaking her head.
Jing-Mei: Then at least let me take you to the local hospital and have the doctor treat you?
Dave: Nno. Ii ggo and sstay tthere, you end ttrip. Nno go. Yyou mmy ddoctor. You ttake care oof mme.
Jing-Mei: I don't have the right equipment to help you.
Dave struggles to raise his head up from his pillow and looks at the ladies with tears in his eyes.
Dave: PPLEASE!
There's a knock on the door.
Rusty: Mama Jing, we come in?
Jing-Mei: Mrs. Peterson, I know I'm asking alot but can you take the boys out for the day, again? I'll see what I can do for him.
Mrs. Peterson nods and heads back into the other room.
Rusty: What going on in there?
Mrs. Peterson: We'll talk about it later. Now, why don't you guys get your bathing suits on and we'll hit the water park today.
Both boys start cheering loudly. Mrs. Peterson shushes them and helps them get ready. She takes the boys down to breakfast, leaving Jing-Mei to care for a sick Dave.
Later that day, Mrs. Peterson brings the boys back to the hotel, all worn out from spending the day at Disney's Blizzard Beach. She tells them to take a nap for a while and they'll go out again later. She enters Jing-Mei and Dave's room. To her surprise, Dave is sitting up in bed.
Dave: Mommy!
Mrs. Peterson: Well, you are looking better than you were this morning. How do you feel?
Dave: Ffine.
Jing-Mei: His fever is down to 101 and he's still having hot and cold sweats but he's gotten some of his energy back. We decided to work on some of his reading today and if he's still not up to going out tomorrow, we can practice some doctor stuff. Where are the boy's at?
Mrs. Peterson: I actually got them to take a nap. I think they really tired themselves out today on the slides.
Jing-Mei: I'm glad you had a good day. Tell them that we will try to get out with them again.
Jing-Mei ordered room service for dinner before the boys and Mrs. Peterson left again for the night. Dave didn't feel much like eating. She managed to get some spaghetti down him but then he pushed the plate away. He shrunk back down in bed and pulled his covers over him again and started shaking really bad again. Jing-Mei took his temperature and it was back up to 104.2 now. Despite her pleas, Dave refused to go to the hospital. Jing-Mei placed a cold compress over his head to help take down his fever.
When Mrs. Peterson came back with the boys, she put them to bed and went in to the Maluccis room.
Mrs. Peterson: So, how's it going...(startled) what happened?
So, how's it going...what happened?Jing-Mei: He's sick again and his temperature is up to 104.6 now.
Mrs. Peterson: But he looked fine this afternoon.
Jing-Mei: I know. It's a relapse. He couldn't keep any of his dinner down and he even had two very small seizures that lasted only a few seconds each. He seemed to go out after them, probably from pure exhaustion.
Mrs. Peterson: Are you taking him to the hospital now?
Jing-Mei: I want to but he's still conscious most of the time so even if I call the paramedics, they won't take him against his wishes.
Mrs. Peterson: But what about your wishes, you are his wife. Certainly, you have a say in this.
Jing-Mei: True, I have power of attorney but that's only good if Dave isn't able to speak for himself. He's very clear about what he wants. The only way I can overrule him is if I have him declared mentally incompetent. I won't degrade or humiliate him that way.
Mrs. Peterson: Not even to save his life.
Jing-Mei: His medicine helped him earlier, maybe it will work again.
Mrs. Peterson: And if it don't?
Jing-Mei: If he's not any better in the morning, we're going to the hospital whether he likes it or not.
Mrs. Peterson: Do you need a hand with him?
Jing-Mei: No, he's asleep now so we should be alright. Why don't you go get some rest, you must be tired if the boys are knocked out like they are. We'll be fine.
Mrs. Peterson: When do you sleep?
Jing-Mei: In between his good moments. Goodnight.
Mrs. Peterson: Goodnight.
The next day comes and goes and there's little change in Dave's condition and even though Jing-Mei constantly threatens Dave with taking him to the hospital, she never goes through with it. After some fight, Dave finally agreed to letting Jing-Mei rent him an oxygen tank to help with his decrease breathing.
On the fifth day of their vacation, Mrs. Peterson and the boys enter Dave's room carrying a large cake and singing. Jing-Mei joins in.
All except Dave: Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday dear Dave, papa...da.ddy. Happy Birthday to you.
Dave stares glassy eyed at the cake and starts to blow on it.
Mrs. Peterson: Sorry Dave, no candles. I didn't think it was such a good idea with his oxygen.
Jing-Mei: Right. But that doesn't mean you can't make a wish, Dave. Close your eyes and think real hard.
After a few minutes, Dave opened his eyes and nodded that he had made his wish. Mrs. Peterson and Jing-Mei cut up the cake and handed it out to the boys. Dave turned down the cake and went back to sleep, worrying both ladies.
Finally, it's the night before the Maluccis are scheduled to go home. Mrs. Peterson brings the boys back to the hotel and prepares them for a bath and bed when they ask to go in and see their father, who they haven't been able to see for the last couple of days.
Rusty: How come we can't see papa?
Mrs. Peterson: I told you that your parents' are very busy with your dad's therapy and his training to be a doctor...
Rusty: Come on, Grandma Peterson. Papa wouldn't be working on his vacation and he has oxgen on. Now, what's going on? I'm not stupid.
Mrs. Peterson: You're right, you're not. Your dad's just been a little sick these last couple of days and he didn't want you to see him like that.
Rusty: What wrong with him?
Mrs. Peterson: We think just a little cold, but we want to make sure you boys don't catch it too.
Rusty: We still wanna see papa.
With Dave's permission, Mrs. Peterson brings the boys in to see their dad. They sit on the bed and tell him about their day. They show him all the gifts that they bought and what they saw.
Rusty: Papa, we went up in this big tower in a elvator and then it dropped down. Grandma Peterson was scared but it was fun for 'Tonio and me.
Mrs. Peterson and Jing-Mei walk into the other bedroom and give the boys some time with their dad.
Mrs. Peterson: So, how did it go today?
Jing-Mei: Not good. He was in bad pain. He couldn't even get his head up off the pillow. Finally, when he did he was bent over, unable to straighten up. It was like a case of gastroenteritis or appendicitis but for Dave, ten times worse. I tried to work on him about the hospital again, but he is so stubborn. He is determined not to mess up this trip for the boys at whatever price it costs. I slightly increased his pain killers and that seemed to ease the pain a bit. I asked him if he wanted to practice his doctor skills, but he wasn't up to wrapping bandages again. I thought maybe we could just practice his counting by having him count out his pills while the boys weren't around to get into them again.
Mrs. Peterson: How did that go?
Jing-Mei: Alright, he seemed interested in that til I noticed when we counted his nitro pills, there wasn't as many there that should have been. He's been taking them regularly and he shouldn't unless he really needs them and he knows tha...
Then the ladies hear a banging and Rusty comes running in crying.
Rusty: Mama Jing, papa he's sick… really sick!
The ladies follow Rusty into the other room to see Dave uncontrollably bouncing on the bed and Antonio crying on the other side of him.
Jing-Mei: Damn it, he's having another seizure---a big one this time.
Antonio(crying) Da..ddy...stop
Jing-Mei rushes over to Dave and Mrs. Peterson grabs Antonio into her arms and tries to calm him. Jing-Mei tries to hold Dave down but the seizure is more than she can handle and she can't get near him.
Jing-Mei: Easy Dave, just go with it. Let your body do what it has to and don't fight it, sweetheart.
Rusty(crying)What happening papa?
Jing-Mei: Mrs. Peterson, take the boys into the other room and call 911.
To be continued. Please read and review.