And he was afraid that if the appointment had to be rescheduled, he wouldn't be able to arrange another trip soon.
The nurse listened carefully.
Then spoke with the appropriate clinical staff to determine what could be done safely and promptly.
She also contacted a social worker who helped families navigate transportation, accommodation, and financial assistance.
The father began crying.
He kept apologizing.
The nurse placed one hand gently on his shoulder.
“Sir, you don't have to apologize for needing help.”
The little girl stared.
Her mother continued.
“We'll explain the next steps. Let's make sure your son gets the right assessment.”
The man covered his face.
For several seconds, he couldn't speak.
Then he whispered, “Thank you.”
The nurse nodded.
“Of course.”
Later, when her shift ended, the little girl asked her mother a question.
“Why was that man crying?”
Her mother was washing her hands.
She considered her answer.
“Because he was frightened.”
“About his little boy?”
“Yes.”
The girl looked toward the waiting room.
“Did he not have enough money?”
Her mother sighed.
“His family was having a difficult time paying for the trip.”
The girl frowned.
“But being sick isn't his fault.”
Her mother turned.
For a moment, she simply looked at her daughter.
Then she smiled sadly.
“No, sweetheart.”
The girl thought about that.
Then asked, “So why should money make it harder?”
Her mother sat beside her.
She looked tired.
Very tired.
But her expression became serious.
“That's a question people spend their entire lives trying to answer.”
The girl frowned.
Her mother took her hand.
“Medical care takes skilled people, equipment, medicine, buildings, and many other resources. Those things cost money.”
The girl nodded.
“But?”
Her mother smiled faintly.
“But families shouldn't have to feel ashamed when they need help finding a way to get care.”
The girl considered that.