The initial thrill of sending kids back to school often fades quickly, as the reality of classroom germs sets in. Before you know it, those cheerful little ones are home with colds, fevers, stuffy noses, and sore throats.
Since the school year kicked off, my two eldest children have been sidelined for extended periods due to relentless viruses. As the caregiver during these sick days, I’ve come to recognize that I experience the following seven stages each time this happens:
- Denial. One morning, my son woke up with a congested nose, a scratchy throat, and a complaint of not feeling well. My first instinct: “Really? Are you sure? Maybe you just slept funny.” I took his temperature—no fever! “That’s a relief. Drink some water, have breakfast, and hop in the shower. Here’s an adult dose of cold medicine. You’ll perk up by the time you get to school, right? You’ll be fine! Go catch the bus.”
- Acceptance with a Hint of Panic. An hour later, the school nurse calls to inform me that my son is in her office, still complaining of his symptoms. I now realize he truly is sick. I pick him up, settle him into the lounge chair with a cozy blanket, ice water, and the TV remote. My plans for the day are officially canceled.
- Hope. This is the stage where I cling to the hope that the illness will be a short-lived 24-hour bug. I set out to provide plenty of fluids, popsicles, and soup, even splurging on a few movies on demand. I cross my fingers for a quick recovery.
- Love and Concern. I frequently check on my child, offering him saltines and chicken noodle soup. He’s allowed to eat and watch TV in my bed, I bring him cool compresses, and I administer medicine every few hours. I listen to his complaints with patience and affection. For me, this stage usually lasts a day or two before it inevitably transitions into…
- Anger. By the third day, the thermometer reads a concerning 103 degrees. There’s actual vomit in the toilet that requires assistance to flush. My supply of cold and flu medication is running low, and I’m out of soup. I’m done with this! After calling the doctor, I’m told it’s likely a virus, and I shouldn’t bother bringing him in. Viruses can hang around for 5 to 7 days, they say. No antibiotics available? I hang up, and in frustration, I curse the doctor’s advice under my breath, wishing for a miracle cure for the common cold. Serenity now!
- Depression. Four days have passed, and I’m stuck at home with my child. The walls feel like they’re closing in. I’ve lived in pajamas, spent my days on the couch, and my child shows no signs of improvement. Scrolling through Facebook is a harsh reminder that others are living life while I’m trapped in this sick day purgatory. I begin to dread back-to-school night, not for the event itself, but as an escape from this house.
- Joy! One morning, my child bounds down the stairs, declaring he feels much better! We’ve survived this ordeal together, emerging on the other side. We share a high five before I remind him to shower while I step outside to bask in the sunshine.
Of course, just when I think we’ve made it through, I glance over at my youngest, only to find his eyes red, puffy, and oozing. Pink eye, for sure. Here we go again—back to stage one. Noooooooo!
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Summary:
The seven stages of dealing with a child’s illness highlight the emotional rollercoaster parents experience, from denial and anger to eventual relief. Each stage emphasizes the challenges and joys of parenting during sickness, ultimately reminding us of the resilience and love that carry us through.